Chasing Love: A Modern-Day Gatsby’s Pursuit

In 2016, Andrew Quintero first noticed Sophia Babai through a mutual friend’s Instagram story. At the time, he was a freshman at Quinnipiac University, while Babai was studying in Albany. Enchanted by her, he tried to arrange a meeting, but it would take four years for that to happen. During this time, Quintero became known as “Gatsby” for hosting lavish parties and events in hopes of getting her attention, similar to the main character from The Great Gatsby. However, his efforts proved unsuccessful as Babai did not attend these gatherings.

Their long-anticipated meeting finally occurred in early 2020 when a mutual friend arranged drinks in Manhattan. Upon meeting, they discovered a deep connection, sharing immigrant backgrounds Babai from Cyprus and Quintero’s parents from Colombia and Peru—as well as mutual interests in travel, music, and food. Despite their chemistry, Babai initially wanted only friendship, but Quintero found ways to stay in her life, including introducing himself to her boss for business opportunities.

After their first date in December 2020, their relationship blossomed quickly. They traveled together extensively, and by the following year, Babai moved into the house Quintero purchased in New York. In October 2023, Quintero orchestrated a grand proposal at Barclays Center, filling the empty arena with pictures of them and having performers sing Lana Del Rey’s “Say Yes to Heaven.”

They married on August 24, 2024, at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Manhattan, with Quintero converting to her faith. Their reception at the Plaza Hotel was a luxurious affair, continuing the Gatsby-like grandeur of their love story.