 |
| Our romance began in Manhattan’s Gramercy Park neighborhood. {credit} |
As I entered my forties, I thought I’d be destined for
eternal bachelorhood. Being single in New York City is no easy task.
With clubs and bars in my review mirror, I turned to online dating. While that had its moments, my ideal match
seemed to be elusive.
was living in Manhattan. So, as the gentlemen I am, I met her near her apartment
at the Starbucks on 23rd and Third in Gramercy Park. I was drawn to her beautiful smile, pretty eyes, and
wonderful aura from the beginning. It was on our third date that I knew my
single life was in the past, and she’d be a huge part of my future for a long
time.
 |
| After our third date, I knew Silvia was the one. |
I was so confident that I introduced her to my mother, who really
liked her. And, after only three months, I met her son Nicolas –– who was 12 at the time –– and we clicked on many levels. It probably has something to do with my
15 years of work experience with children.
in Brooklyn, which cut down on the traveling on weekends. I would also see
her a few times a week in Manhattan after working in Queens. On our many dates, I loved eating in Gramercy Park, which features great eating and drinking establishments such as Molly’s (287 3rd Ave),
Pete’s Tavern (129 E 18th St), Gramercy Tavern (42 E 20th St) and Orion Diner and Grill (395 2nd Ave). But much to my dismay, the traveling was arduous, and started to
wear thin on me. Plus, given the fact that we were getting along so well, we
decided to move in together after dating more than a year and half.
wrong, I do love the borough, but there are some inherent differences between
Brooklyn and Manhattan. Firstly, it’s a lot more expensive just for the everyday
living aspect. Secondly, if you’re a Manhattan renter, there seems to a revolving door of
people every week, which prevents you from getting to know your building mates.
It turned out that our door revolved quickly too. After just six months, the building forced us to move.
We were fortunate enough, however, to secure an open apartment at my parents’ house back in
Brooklyn. Silvia, a Brooklyn girl at heart, warmed up to the idea, and it has
been a great move for everyone.
 |
| Brooklyn, NY! |
We got engaged on December 7, 2013, in front of the spectacular
Christmas decorations in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, with Nicolas, her best friend
Melissa, and Melissa’s daughter Maria present. It was a magical day for all.
Brooklyn, at Canon Ball Park, with the Verrazano, my all-time favorite
bridge, in the background. Our wedding reception will take place on Saturday,
August 9, in Bayonne, New Jersey (Please send gifts. I kid, maybe).
Presently, our plans are to stay put in Brooklyn as we are city folks through and through. But who knows what the future holds? No matter where we live, I couldn’t be happier, as have I found the perfect life mate. Everyone should be as happy and lucky as we are. Life is grand!
I love
you, Silvia!
 |
| The night of our engagement in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn. |
A big thanks to Jerry for sharing his New York love story with us! Jerry is a good friend and loyal contributor who’s written for Tracy’s New York Life since 2012. A native New Yorker, he does a bang-up job covering food and nightlife, particularly in the boroughs.
Finding true love in a city of more than eight million may present its challenges, but this is proof that it can happen. Congratulations, Jerry and Silvia!
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Paula says
Congratulations to my awesome friend, Jerry and his lovely Silvia on their marriage! My heart cannot be any happier that you have found your soulmate. Silvia, I'm sure you already know you are getting the best guy ever! It's no wonder your relationship was destined for a happy future! You met on my birthday, October 18! Good Karma and many blessings for the future Mr. & Mrs. Del Priore! Love you!!
Paula says
Congratulations to my awesome friend, Jerry and his lovely Silvia on their marriage! My heart cannot be any happier that you have found your soulmate. Silvia, I'm sure you already know you are getting the best guy ever! It's no wonder your relationship was destined for a happy future! You met on my birthday, October 18! Good Karma and many blessings for the future Mr. & Mrs. Del Priore! Love you!!
Tracy Kaler says
Thanks for your comment, Paula! I am ecstatic about Jerry and Silvia too. They make an adorable couple! Finding true love in New York City is possible!