Regional Romance
Western Queens couples share their love stories
14 FEBRUARY 2 0 2 1
Photos by Sydney Goodwin
LOCAL LOVE
BY ALLISON KRIDLE
It’s no wonder western Queens is overflowing with happy couples: Not only is the area
full of romance, from candlelit restaurants to sunset skyline views, but it’s also a great
neighborhood to settle down. Each year, BORO shares some local meet-cutes and
love stories. This Valentine’s Day, we found 11 couples who either met, got engaged
or tied the knot in western Queens.
Ashley Cavadas and
Jim Panels
Astoria residents Ashley Cavadas
and Jim Panels each left the Sparrow
Tavern after their first date with a feeling
that this would be forever.
“I had a really good feeling about
Jim after the date and even told my
friends right when I got home. I even
said that as part of our vows when we
got married,” Cavadas said.
Panels also felt the spark: “I remember
thinking that Ashley was really cute
and kind. I really enjoyed talking to her
and was really happy when she agreed
to have a second drink.”
In the five years since they connected
online and had that first date, the
couple built a life together in western
Queens. They live near Astoria Park,
where they often walk or meet friends
for a picnic. That’s why, when they
were choosing a venue for an outdoor
wedding in September 2020, Astoria
Park was a natural choice. They got
married in an intimate ceremony with
11 guests.
The couple has lived in Astoria for
almost 10 years and have businesses
based out of Long Island City.
FAVORITE DATE SPOTS:
MOSAIC
TRATTORIA L’INCONTRO
CASA ENRIQUE
ICONYC BREWERY
MOMI