When the Elshafei family moved onto Sleight Street in March 2020—during the very week the world shut down—they had no idea how quickly East Highlands would become home. What began as a whirlwind, pandemic-era move soon grew into a life filled with connection, neighborhood traditions, and countless memories beneath the community’s beautiful tree canopy.

Today, Ramsey and Lulu Elshafei, along with their sons Taner (6) and Evren (2.5), and their beloved pups Oliver and Lucky, are a cherished part of the East Highlands story.

Meet the Elshafeis

Lulu, originally from southeast Michigan, is a corporate/M&A attorney for a global grocer. Ramsey, raised in the Green Trails neighborhood and a proud Naperville 203 alum, is president and CEO of a commercial/industrial property management and development firm in Lisle.

Their family began at Western Michigan University ("WMU"), where they met freshman year and began dating as sophomores. Their sons bring joy and energy to daily life:
• Taner, a Highlands 1st grader, loves art, tae kwon do, snow skiing, reading, and all things outdoors.
• Evren, their spirited toddler, enjoys swimming, cars, and story time, always paired with his contagious smile.
• Oliver (13) and Lucky, (10) their quirky and loyal dogs, have been with them since their early years together.

Life in East Highlands

Drawn by the charm, character, and walkability, the family quickly experienced the warmth of the neighborhood—even during quarantine. They fell in love with the unique, homey architecture and the sense of community present on every block.

Favorite activities include walking the Riverwalk, biking the DuPage River trail, and soaking in the festive decorations each fall and winter—especially at Halloween and Christmas. They also enjoy attending block parties, neighborhood crawls, and impromptu coffee walks with friends.

Their favorite part of living here? “The beauty, the mature trees, the walkability, and neighbors you can truly rely on—whether you need a cup of sugar or an egg.”

Talents, Traditions & Family Life

The household is a blend of personality and talent:

Holidays are intentionally memorable—not overwhelming. Whether traveling or enjoying a quiet day of baking and gift-giving, the Elshafeis focus on meaningful moments together.

Community Involvement

The family takes pride in fostering neighborhood spirit—welcoming new families, staying connected with longtime residents, and decorating their home throughout the year to bring joy to local kids.

Both parents are active in community organizations and give back to various organizations throughout the year, including their alma mater WMU where they each have an annual scholarship, since 2020, for first-generation undergraduate students with financial need:

Favorite Neighborhood Memories

Among their most treasured memories: trick-or-treating each year—“pure magic,” they say—and watching their boys learn to ride a bike and scooter along the East Highlands sidewalks. These core moments, simple yet unforgettable, embody why they love living here.