Tuscan Hills

Engagement Party

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

Destination Wedding

Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church

Church Wedding

VIP Country Club

Reception

After Party

Winter

Our Wedding

"I'm honestly not impressed yet..." That's the text that started it all back in August of 2016. Like most people meeting Joe initially, Anjelica didn't take Joe too seriously when they first met and started to know each other. He was immature, constantly cracking jokes, sticking his tongue out and making sexual innuendos at every chance like a teenager. She was also never the romantic type and believed herself to be more of a realist operating under the idea that if things were too good... well we know how the saying goes. Joe was interested in dating Anjelica, but when he asked how she felt about him from a romantic standpoint, she unfortunately gave him that exact sarcastic response in August 2016. Little did she know, those words would only challenge and motivate him more to prove to her that he's not like anyone else she's ever met, nor how most people perceive him. After a few casual dates and a trip to Mexico together, Anjelica unfortunately returned to the Philippines after a stint in New York City. They continued to find time to talk and call each other despite the inconvenient 12 hour time difference. His bedtime was her lunch breaks and vice-versa. They enjoyed one another's banter and sarcasm. It was refreshing to discover new things about each other especially since they were living on separate continents. They taught each other to look at things from a different perspective, and appreciate their current living situations, opportunities and life a little more. The two got along so well that each day brought something to look forward when either name popped up on their respective phones. They only had to go about their normal day and count down a few hours until they could chat or FaceTime with each other again. Unfortunately, the distance ultimately became too difficult for them :: cough it was Anjelica cough :: as there were no plans in the foreseeable future for the two of them to permanently reside in New York so their relationship could be nothing more than a few days together at a time. They knew they were great for each other but the geographical location was too inconvenient and too much to overcome for the couple at that stage in their lives, unfortunately. In June of 2017, they decided it best to move on separately... It wasn't as hard for Anjelica to come to terms with this decision because Joe technically never asked her to be his official and exclusive girlfriend, despite what he thought was a given. He gets reminded of this all the time when they reflect on their love story and past "break up." However, what's meant to be will always find its way. In November of 2018, Anjelica moved back permanently to New York in hopes for a better future for herself and to start her new career in the tv/film industry. In January 2019, Joe found out that Anjelica was back in town as she was tagged on Facebook at her film's wrap party with Joe's college friend - shout out to Rob Howard. After some light Facebook stalking and a few texts to his friend, Joe reached out by sliding into her Facebook messages and "adding her." With the ultimatum of either become friends once more or never hear from him again, she realized that their time apart only made them appreciate one another even more. The Facebook request was accepted and the constant texting all day and future plans "that sounded too good" once more, turned into another "first" date. There was nothing standing in their way this time, so they thought. After a year of dating and multiple vacations including Joe's first trip across the pacific to the Philippines, their relationship grew even stronger as COVID hit in February 2020. Like many people, no one knew what COVID was or how long it would inconveniently last especially with rumors of quarantining and the unfortunate inability to leave their homes for days, weeks or months on hand. With the approval of his roommate, Joe asked Anjelica to stay with him and consolidate resources so the three of them can take care of each other during these troubled and scary times. When the mandatory quarantine and other COVID restrictions were officially lifted in June 2021, they realized they did not want to live without each other. For Christmas 2021, Joe gave Anjelica keys to the apartment and asked her to officially move-in as of February 2022. To this day, Joe makes sure Anjelica eats her original words to him as they've come a long way since casual dates, phone calls at odd hours with time difference, and thousands of miles between separating them. Joe has proven he is emotionally and mentally mature, can be serious when necessary and too responsible for his own good. He will also always have a compulsion to help others, see the world from a half-full perspective, bring out the best in those around, and most importantly, do the right thing by everyone, especially Anjelica, his family and friends. Don't get it twisted, he still watches his superheroes cartoons, eats chicken tenders, drinks fruity cocktails before a beer, and prefers to play with the kids than have adult conversations at family parties... so Anjelica's initial impression was not COMPLETELY wrong after all. Anjelica learned to believe some people in this world "too good" as her fantasized fiercely loyal, chivalrous, and sweet Prince Charming was real, but full of sarcastic, wiseass, and sex jokes at times. Anjelica has proven to him that someone with such a big heart can fit it all in such a tiny body. She was and still is one of the strongest and most resilient people he's ever met, despite her finding that hard to believe. While she is still operates as a realist with her guard always up, she is opening herself up to more people and opportunities thanks to the support of Joe. "Inconvenient" and "unfortunate" seems to be the theme of this relationship as it was under these circumstances that these two met but since thrived. They have overcome so much, both individually and together, to get to this point in their lives where they are ready to express their unwavering love to each other forever and always in the eyes of God and their loved ones.

Inconveniently and Unfortunately

Our Story

Engagement Party 10.14.23

Destination Wedding 12.16.23

The Sacred Timeline

The Bride's Crew

Believe it or not, Emily and Anjelica didn't like each other when they first met. They will both attest they thought the other came off with a certain "face" that made them unapproachable and believed to never get along. However, their similarities on music, hood-ness, personalities behind the wheel, "turn-up" nights, fashion, and ability to instantly start dancing the moment they hear a song, became the cornerstone of a ride or die friendship. Now that they are inseparable, they have accepted "this is the way their faces' look," loved each other for who they have become, and agreed on who Daddie really is... p.s. it's not Joe.

Emily Ennis

Believe it or not, Manny isn't just her cousin. He's Anjelica's go-to for almost everything including therapy, family counseling, home design, event planning, travel coordinating, cake making, personal yelp reviews, tour guide instructions, relationship guru and most importantly tv mount anchor.   

Manny Valenciano

Believe it or not, Lauren was always the romantic while Anjelica was always the cynic. She had helped balance Anjelica out, believe in love, and hope for a family of her own one day, after seeing the beautiful life Lauren's romantic perspective earned her.

Lauren Caraos-Aramini

Believe it or not, everyone called Anne-Marie and Anjelica "Anj-Marie" at the office, as these two are practically twins. They would read each other's mind, finish each other's sentences, and knew exactly what each one was feeling and thinking without a spoken word. Even after they were no longer coworkers, they continued to be twins by texting each other at the same time to catch up, ordering the same thing at restaurants, finding spouses with the same initials (A&J) and even having civil weddings 20 days apart from one another (12.2023). 

Anne-Marie Mangal

Believe it or not, Anjelica always wanted a sister and is so lucky to have Lisa as her sister in law. Anjelica always appreciates that Lisa is so caring, down to earth, and full of advice. There is no hesitation to blow up each others' phones at whatever hour in the night to talk about anything and everything. 

Lisa Obligacion

Believe it or not, Liz and Anjelica have only known each other since November 2022. While it may have started out as just strangers at a table for their husbands college friend's wedding (shoutout to Hux), it blossomed and evolved from daily text messages, monthly get togethers, job opportunities, offices across the street and now apartments down the block from each other.  The only thing that these two share more than love for one another is Steve Madden shoes. 

Liz Schatz

Believe it or not, Angela does perfect renditions of Britney Spears' greatest hits at Karaoke! Angela and Anjelica always found themselves in some crazy adventure in the Philippines. Weekends were for road trips and spa dates. They always found their way to a karaoke bar before the weekend came to a close. 

Angela Green

Believe it or not, Deirdre is the best DJ amongst Anjelica's friends and goes by "Dr Dre." Whether it was a shuttle bus leading to an airport or excursion, holding down the jukebox for the entire local bar, setting the tone at a party or just offering music playlists with recommended artists for both Joe and Anjelica, Anjelica can always rely on Deirdre who sets the vibe, reads the room, keeps the night going and makes everyone happy! 

Deirdre Jernigan

The Groom's Crew

Believe it or not, Chris pulled a robbery behind Joe's back, and stole Joe’s first "girlfriend," who was also Asian. Guess who got the last laugh? Despite starting off as rivals, this bromance really grew in senior year of high school and in college. Over the years, Chris never let Joe's faith in himself and his dream of a wife and kids wander. He always welcomed Joe into his own family as his "brother" by giving Joe the honor and title of Uncle to his children and brother-in-law to his wife.  Despite their distance apart, they never let more than a few days go by without catching up and there will always be a call at midnight on New Years' Eve no matter what timezone they are in.



Chris McMurtry

Believe it or not, Nick is not only Joe’s brother, but he is actually younger despite his looks, hobbies, mannerisms and bedtime. Matthew Schwartz and Nick Scala are not related for those wondering. 

Nicholas Scala

Believe it or not, Joe met Taylor at the time when everyone started to poke fun at Joe for being Ted Mosby from the TV show, "How I Met Your Mother." It was more befitting as Taylor was always by his side as the man, the myth and the legend known as Barney Stinson. The two of them got in plenty of trouble together at bars and lived out many of the  classic episodes from the show, especially the Drunk Train Episode, in real life, 

Taylor Kieserman

Believe it or not, there is no such thing as a CHILL NIGHT with Craig. He has always been Joe's wild card and jack of all trades. Even when Craig offers Joe to have an easy night with just a few drinks, it would start off pretty relaxed with some deep conversations. However, the following day will always start with a text message asking if each of them were alive, a lot of questions between them that started with "did we" and their recollection of the prior "chill" night distorted and burry. Joe's time with Craig always involved some sort of shenanigan but always a memorable time together.  Joe can rely on Craig knowing that he will always have his back no matter what they face or trouble they get into together.

Craig Belesi

Believe it or not, Joe and Dan have shared a lot of things over the years including a dorm room, birthdates, vacations and plenty of drinks. The most important thing they share and appreciate now is their comingled family.

Dan Maccarone

Believe it or not, Matt actually met Joe on Craigslist and offered him that cake the first night they met, and became his roommate for the next four plus years. Whether it was giving each other worldly advice or sharing stupid memes over instagram just to hear a huge laugh from the other side of the wall, Joe often sees Matt as a "younger brother" and their bond has only grown stronger once Anjelica moved-in with them. To this day, they still meet every other Monday to share cooking lessons/recipes and watch the same series they watched when all living together... and before anyone makes a joke - No, Matt didn't have to teach Anjelica how to cut a bagel!!!! 

Matthew Schwartz

Believe it or not, Joe will never wear chinos, rowing blazers or Bryan's other fashion recommendations. Without a doubt, Bryan was and will always be the best dressed in any room he walks into but his positivity and energy is what really lights up the room. Known as his "Bry or Die," Bryan and Joe bonded over their love for comic books even though they disagree on who is superior. Joe always MARVELs at how Bryan always gives the most honest and sound advice whenever Joe is questioning things in his life. In his brightest day and darkest night, Bryan will always stand by Joe and watch over him like your friendly neighborhood... tenant who lives two floors down. 

Bryan Melendez

Believe it or not, John Von was not Joe’s roommate in college. John Von didn’t even attend Hofstra ever despite the countless photos together "in college." Their relationship stemmed from rap / hip hop music, football, video games, finding a way to get the most out of drink deals at bars, and putting their bros before... well you know how the saying goes. Nothing has changed between them after all this time, although there has been no Thursday Thursday, power hours, or Happy Hour Fridays in a really long time. 

John Von Braunsberg

Our Bridal Party

Life and Times with the Crew

If you are already married, why are you having a second wedding?

Yes, Anjelica &amp; Joe had a civil marriage in an intimate ceremony on 12.16.23. However, it is most important to both of them to get married in the Catholic Church in the eyes of God with all family and friends around them. The wedding most important to them and the one they will recognize as their official wedding anniversary will be held on December 20, 2025.

Did you really have a 5-year Plan upon Getting Engaged?

Absolutely!!2023 - Engagement and Civil Wedding2024 - First Child2025 - Church Wedding2026 - Honeymoon in Bora Bora &amp; Buy a Place2027 - Second Child

Did the wedding date change?

Yes, originally we booked our church for December 13th. However our venue was unavailable on that date so we worked with the church to move it to the following weekend, Saturday, December 20th.

Is there a dress code?

Joe originally wrote this answer to just read as the acceptable attire for a dinner restaurant at an all inclusive resort. ie "no flip flops, no shorts, no swimwear ... long pants and collared shirt are required" For everyone who doesn't understand Joe's sense of humor - Formal Attire at Anjelica's request please&nbsp;:)

Is there a wedding hashtag?

There sure is! Two actually! Joe's pick:#JoeFoundHisAnjel Anjelica's pick:#WhiteOnRice

Wedding FAQ

Who is more likely to...

be late? Anjelicafall asleep in front of the tv? Anjelicaclean the apartment? Joestart a conversation with a stranger? Joehave a midnight snack in bed? Joeget out of something they don't want to do? Anjelicaeat ice cream for dinner? Joelose their keys or wallet? Anjelicaget sunburn? Joeget injured? Anjelicaspend more time on their phone? Joetake longer getting ready? Anjelicabe hygienic? Anjelicasnore? Anjelicabe clumsy? Anjelicacry during a movie? Anjelicabe competitive? Joebe a picky eater? Joebe stubborn? Anjelicahave the most clothes? Anjelicathrive on chaos? Anjelicabe cranky in the morning? Joe

Who would be the first person to... 

say "I love you"? Anjelicainitiate a date idea? Joestart dancing? Anjelicabe romantic? Joeget out of bed in the morning when the alarm goes off? Joeshower? Joesay "I'm sorry"? Joemake a joke? Joefinish their plate? Joeorder out? Anjelicaget a tattoo? Anjelicaget a piercing? Anjelicaact immature? Joespend money? Anjelicaget out their wallet on a date? Joewash their hands after coming inside? Anjelicacurse? Anjelicawatch sports? Joewatch a foreign tv show? Anjelicaput their hand in the cookie jar? Joemake breakfast? Anjelica"wear the pants" the rest of their lives? Joethrow the first punch? Anjelicadrop an F*Bomb? Anjelica

Who is better at...

being romantic? Joebeing patient? Joecooking? Joecleaning? Anjelicadriving? Joe... just kidding... Anjelicamaking the bed? Joeresponding to text messages? Joefinishing their chores? Joegiving massages? Anjelicasaving money? Joespending money? Anjelicasinging? Anjelicaplanning a vacation? Joebeing sarcastic? Joebeing mature? Anjelicagiving directions? Joefollowing directions? Anjelicaplanning surprises? Joegiving gifts? Joebeing a partner? Joebeing around kids? Joe

Couple Questions

We are excited to announce that we've partnered with Residence Inn at New Rochelle as our official wedding hotel. For anyone staying for the after party at the venue or if it gets a little too late to drive home, reserve your room here!(Just let us know when you do as we need a headcount!)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1753801100392&amp;key=GRP&amp;app=resvlink" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Reservation Link</a> We are the Scalas. For any wedding day survivors, we are here, we are waiting.#DrinkResponsibly #PartyResponsibly

Anjelica & Joseph

Anjelica & Joseph

Registry