Meet Elvin and Dani from the Bronx, New York

Meet Elvin and Dani from the Bronx, New York. They got engaged in the cave today- a place that carries more meaning for them than words can fully explain. Exactly ten years ago today, they celebrated their third anniversary right here at Howe, stepping on the heart and marking the first big trip they ever planned together. Today, they returned for their anniversary once more, and this time, Elvin proposed. They noticed how different it felt. Years ago, the boat ride seemed to fly by. This time, they slowed down, soaking in every moment on the Lake of Venus. Elvin shared that no matter how many times they visit, stepping out of the elevator into the vast openness of the Vestibule always leaves him in awe.

Dani grew up surrounded by siblings, while Elvin was an only child, still figuring out where he fit when he arrived as a newcomer at Mercy University. Elvin had originally started college at Syracuse, and it was there, in a lunchroom, that he crossed paths with Dani for the first time. What began as a chance encounter grew into a love story that’s now 13 years strong.

Together, they built a life in the Bronx, sharing a cozy one-bedroom apartment with an office. Along the way, both learned important truths about themselves. Elvin realized college wasn’t the right path for him and found his calling in technical writing at Peloton. Dani worked in veterinary medicine and also stepped away from college for a time, with plans to return very soon.

A few years ago, they received an offer that felt too good to pass up and moved into a new home in Connecticut. While they love their life there, they admit they miss New York, especially places like this, where you’re greeted with a warm, familiar smile. (In Connecticut, they joke, it’s just not quite the same.) They’re happiest spending quiet time at home, reading, watching movies together, and indulging Elvin’s love of Legos.

They don’t have children, but they do have cats, who were just as excited about the extra space as they were.

When asked to describe each other, they used many of the same words: funny, courageous, charismatic, caring, and loving- a true reflection of just how deeply in sync they are.

Their message to the world is simple and powerful: Do what you want to do right now. Don’t let fear stop you. Don’t let anyone stand in your way. Don’t get stuck asking “what if.” Just go for it. If this Howe has taught them anything, it’s that some places, and some people, are always worth returning to, again and again. Congratulations, Dani & Elvin Wishing you a lifetime of good health, happiness, and adventures. Thank you so much for visiting!