Say hello to the Taslaman family! Edvin, Carreen, and their children Giulia (7) and Matteo (5) are a vibrant, warm-hearted family whose story blends international roots, hometown ties, and a love for community.

Edvin and Carreen moved into the neighborhood in March 2022, drawn by a mix of nostalgia and new beginnings. Carreen grew up just a few miles away in Barrington Hills and graduated from Barrington High School. With her family still nearby and many childhood friends now settled in the area, the move was a natural choice. Edvin, originally from Italy, embraced the shift to suburban life after years of living in Europe and Chicago, excited by the promise of green space, great schools, and a strong sense of community.

Carreen is a dedicated first-grade teacher in the Evanston-Skokie School District and has been with the same school for 12 years - a testament to her passion for education and her commitment to her students. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Western Illinois University and a Master’s in Reading from the American College of Education.

Edvin is a Project Engineering Manager with E80 Group, a robotics company based in Italy that operates globally. He’s been with the company for an impressive 16 years, working in Italy, Sweden, and now the U.S. After moving stateside, he earned both his Bachelor’s in Management and Master’s in Supply Chain Management from Loyola University.

The couple first met in Chicago through online dating; after a few weeks of messaging, they hit it off over a first date at a cozy neighborhood pub.

Giulia and Matteo have both flourished since the family’s move. They began their school journeys at Holy Family Academy and now attend Marion Jordan Elementary. Giulia is a bright and artistic soul with a love for music, dance, and piano. She recently joined the Girl Scouts as a Daisy and is eager to try cheerleading and even waterskiing!

Matteo, now in kindergarten, is energetic and curious, especially when it comes to cars and all things mechanical. He loves riding his power wheel around the yard and is happiest when he’s outdoors. This past summer, both kids learned to ride bikes, sparking many family rides through the neighborhood and to South Park.

The Taslamans bring a wonderful mix of talents to their family dynamic. Edvin, trained at a music conservatory in Italy, plays multiple instruments and has performed in various bands. Carreen, meanwhile, has a background in competitive waterskiing and was once part of a water ski team - yes, even topping the pyramid in performances!

Together, they enjoy snow skiing and hope to create lasting family memories on the slopes. Their shared love of music, adventure, and the outdoors infuses their daily life.

Since settling in, the Taslamans have cherished backyard summer days filled with grilling and playtime, evening walks, and neighborhood bike rides. One of the kids’ favorite summer activities? Visiting local lemonade stands; something they look forward to each year.

They’ve also enjoyed getting involved through Marion Jordan Elementary events and attending the Gigi’s Gala in support of GiGi’s Playhouse. As members of the Buehler YMCA, the family enjoys both fitness and fun; while Edvin and Carreen squeeze in a workout, the kids enjoy the Kid's Club.

When it comes to food, sushi nights at Bistro Wasabi and sweet stops at Dairy Queen are family favorites. Date nights exploring local restaurants are also a cherished ritual for Edvin and Carreen.

Although still relatively new to the neighborhood, the Taslaman family has quickly become a warm and familiar presence. With roots that span continents and hearts firmly planted in the community, they exemplify the vibrant, welcoming spirit of our neighborhood.

If you see them out on a family bike ride or at the park, be sure to say hello; they’re always happy to connect with neighbors and share a smile.