Re: Starting with Strangers
If a stranger ever asked my name, I would never answer or even talk to them any further ! 
You really dont need ice breaking techniques to get some small talk initiation. Just talk about casual stuff , start with the weather or something like " Isnt this road beautiful , its got awesome cherry trees on it" etc ..
Just something very casual about your surroundings . If the other person is a friendly one , they will smile back and respond. If they are not , then its your cue to stop trying to talk chat with them !