FIRST IMPRESSIONS Elaine and Dave first crossed paths on the track team at Saint Joseph's University. Off the bat, Dave thought Elaine seemed nice and fun, while Elaine found Dave to be harmless and charismatic – a recipe for a solid friendship. Though they became good friends through practice, parties and endless downtime at meets, it took them much longer to figure out just how special they were to each other. Dave's sisters-in-law were on to them for a while, though – see if you can find their first Facebook photo posted together! The sparks between Dave dressed as a penguin in a George Costanza t-shirt and Elaine as ‘the cat’s pajamas’ are palpable but they wouldn’t even kiss for another year or so… (this came at another team party, New Year’s, as it happens). These initial experiences laid the foundation for a relationship full of love and laughter. Their first date was an unforgettable night in the early summer of 2018 at a favorite bring-your-parents level Mexican restaurant of the SJU population–Besito in Suburban Square. Sitting at an outdoor table, they enjoyed plentiful margaritas and chips, and barely noticed their developing sunburns or anyone else in the vicinity. Maybe this was because they ended up getting pretty wasted, but maybe also because they truly only had eyes for each other in that moment. This set the tone for a affectionate and uninhibited relationship. Dave realized he was in love pretty soon after that first date, although it was difficult to pinpoint the exact moment. For Elaine, the realization came even before agreeing to date Dave. She wouldn't have risked their friendship if she wasn't truly serious. What started as a summer of love developed into forever.

Since SJU, Elaine and Dave have lived together in many areas of the city together (always with roommates! Special shout outs to Old Brian, New Brian, Mason and Liz!) and are *usually* proud to call Philadelphia home. Dave and Elaine are doting parents to Lola, a brown tabby cat native to the streets of West Philadelphia. The household trivia team name is “Lola’s Parents”. Dave's favorite memories with Elaine have been on their mini trips to destinations like Wildwood. Both remember similar feelings as they had on their first date of these getaways – feeling like they were the only two people in the world and the sun, sand and waves were there just for them. For Elaine, favorite moments have centered around any night they shared deep conversations over a meal, whether it was enjoying hot dogs at the Phillies game, sampling wine and cheese at swanky restaurants, or eating frozen pizza at home. Elaine and Dave both also believe that they could be anywhere, and it’s always better to be there when the other person is around.

Getting engaged was a long time coming. When Elaine was sure it was time, she handed an heirloom diamond over to Dave. The main stone in and design inspiration for Elaine’s engagement ring came from a pendant Elaine’s grandmother on her dad’s side, her MeMe, used to wear on a daily basis. After a somewhat arduous but very thoughtful design process, the actual proposal took place on New Year's Eve 2023/24, when Dave pulled Elaine from the party they were hosting to propose. Elaine was absolutely bowled over by the moment – she feels like the luckiest girl in the world whenever she looks at her finger these days. Not to be outdone, she had an engagement present of her own ready for Dave – a vintage, double strap, designer watch. New Year’s has always been and will always be a special time for them both.

Every day, Elaine appreciates Dave's intellect and thoughtfulness – she feels confident she can never go wrong as long as he's by her side. Dave values Elaine's fun-loving nature and goofy sense of humor matched by her unwavering support and love. Together, they envision a future that continues to build on aspects of their relationship that make each moment amazing and secure, with the time and space for more bold ventures, companionship, and special memories. They cannot wait to be married after sharing the best day ever with everyone they hold dear.