United States Merchant Marine Academy Chapel

Wedding Day

Wedding

Sea Cliff Manor

Reception

Hilton Garden Inn Roslyn

Day After #HappiLENTOeverafter Bagel Celebration!

Our Wedding

They were just kids then.&nbsp; It was a cold January night and Ariana, stressed with adjusting to college life and her first final&nbsp;exam schedules,&nbsp;just wanted to go to&nbsp;Gino's Pizza across the street from her campus, one of the only places this native Long Islander was familiar with in the borough of Queens. Out of the corner of her right eye, she finally saw him. He was cute in his Facebook photos, sure, but now,&nbsp;flirting with the hot&nbsp;guy from Jersey suddenly felt so real, something more than just an exchange. "Be cool, be cool, Ari. It's just a guy. You swore you weren't gonna get attached anyways cause college dudes are all the same." She approached the front door of the restaurant, feeling his gaze on her from the other side of the glass door. "Oh man, he IS&nbsp;cute, ahhh, he sees me! Okay, act natural, be cute&flirty, cute&flirty...." she said to over and over to herself as, WHAM!!!....she bumped her head on the glass pull door, trying to push it. She prayed he didn't see that.&nbsp;What a relief that 'graceful' mishap&nbsp;was to Robert, who may have looked calm on the exterior, but on the inside, he was already falling in love with Ariana&nbsp;at first glance, nervously excited about what was to come next. He just had to tell her. He couldn't resist the urge to be the funny guy.&nbsp;"I saw that"&nbsp;he giggled and gave her a hug. Although embarrassed, something about their&nbsp;embrace felt right to them both. It was warm,&nbsp;strong, and special.&nbsp; True to Robert's free spirit, he had no set plan for his first date with his one and only. He called on the help of his friends to recommend where to take his date and&nbsp;how to take her there. These two&nbsp;would later become some of Ariana's favorite people, and the first two people to see the effects of Robert and Ariana's&nbsp;irreplaceable, loving spark together&nbsp;after just ONE&nbsp;DATE! They enjoyed&nbsp;long, interesting talks and&nbsp;a wonderful meal of Seafood Gumbo (for Ari. She didn't finish haha)&nbsp;and Steak (for Rob. He definitely finished his food) at Bourbon Street in Bayside, Queens.&nbsp;

Rob and Ari lost track of time, and it was clear they didn't want the most magical night of their lives to end.&nbsp;They spent over 5 hours talking about life, their beliefs, morals, their favorite subjects, religion, silly mistakes, heartbreaks, dreams,&nbsp;literally ANYTHING&nbsp;you could think about. They&nbsp;had this strange feeling as if they've&nbsp;known each other their entire lives. They spent so much time getting to truly understand&nbsp;the other soul that night, but all along, the more they learned about the other, the more obvious it became that they already were one in harmony and destined together.&nbsp;

 After just one date, Rob and Ari knew.&nbsp;This magical first&nbsp;date would have gone on forever, if&nbsp;Robert did not have to muster&nbsp;his way back to USMMA in Kings Point on the north shore of Long Island,&nbsp;planning the next time he'd see his soulmate again. His roommates watched him climb his ladder up to his bunk, smiling ear to ear and glowing in a way they couldn't help but comment about. 

All that Rob&nbsp;and Ari could say was, they found the one, the one their soul was looking for. The next date they had, the words "I love you" embodied every action they took together, from silly snap-chat contests to bouquets and chocolates for a dance team half-time show.&nbsp;It was only the third date, their first full weekend together, when they finally&nbsp;said these&nbsp; magical words to each other that they had felt all along.&nbsp; The rest is a Tale as Old as Time, and we are so excited to have you share in our Happily Ever&nbsp;After!

#happiLENTOeverafter&nbsp;

"You're The One! The One I've Been Looking For!"-  Disney's The Little Mermaid

&nbsp;"And in years to come we'll reminisce. How we came to love. And grew and grew love. Since first we knew love through true love's kiss"- Disney's&nbsp; Enchanted

 





Rob had it all figured out. He even secretly called Ari's job and made sure she was off the schedule for that weekend.&nbsp; Plane tickets, check. Hotel, check. Cover Story&nbsp;that they were visiting his parents and that he wanted to surprise reward her with a stress free weekend? Check.&nbsp;





To tell the Proposal Story, you have to know that it was an entire weekend event, so here's the scoop from the beginning. Rob excitedly shows Ari that everything is taken care of and that the next day they would be flying to Orlando to visit his parents.&nbsp;Friday around 1 pm, Rob and Ari and their little pup Kailani (Kai) sit down with some doggy food,&nbsp;airport Chinese food and a beer and a full pour of white wine, just waiting for the plane. Ari is so excited, she can hardly take it. She loves spontaneity and adventure, and Rob loves to make Ari happy. Little did she know, the bubbles in her tummy she felt while&nbsp;awaiting her flight wouldn't be the most magical moment of that entire weekend.&nbsp;





Rob and Ari were greeted at the Orlando airport by the loving and welcoming vibes of&nbsp;Big Rob and Maureen, who could not wait to see them. Everyone knew what was to go down that weekend, except for Ari, and she still cannot believe how she did not suspect a thing. The four went out to Outback Steakhouse, caught up, enjoyed each other's company, and then continued the night by checking in to&nbsp;Rob and Ari's hotel room in the JW Marriott. (You would think she would have caught on by now!) They enjoyed a swim in the lazy river, took in the views of this gorgeous resort, took some family photos, and then said their good-nights as mom&dad went on their way back to their own place.&nbsp;





The next morning, Rob and Ari took the Yoga class at the resort gym, and enjoyed a cup of Starbucks Iced coffee together with some bodega breakfast sandwiches. Ari just couldn't stop asking what they were gonna do the rest of the day, and Rob wouldn't tell her!&nbsp;He said it was a surprise. They hopped on a shuttle, and before she knew it, they were in&nbsp;DISNEY&nbsp;WORLD!&nbsp;The Most Magical Place on Earth!&nbsp;





Ari could barely hold in her excitement. She bought herself a pair of Minnie&nbsp;Ears with a fairy veil attached, and the couple went on their way to ride all of the princess rides, take lots of kissy pictures by the Magic Kingdom Castle, and eat disney nuggets. The last ride Ari picked was the Little Mermaid Grotto ride, and the last ride Rob picked that ended the night was the Space Invaders Toy Story Shooting game where he completely&nbsp;beat Ari's score by a landslide!&nbsp;The sun was setting, and Rob grew more and more anxious to get back to the hotel. Ari, not understanding why, begged to stay, because Disney was her absolute favorite place in the entire world!&nbsp;But, they got in an uber and headed back to the resort.&nbsp;





After a jump in the resort&nbsp;lazy river, a shower, blowdry, and makeup, Ari slipped into her favorite NY&Co Sunset&nbsp;Flower Dress and tan heels, as Rob told her they were going somewhere fancy for dinner. Ari noticed as Rob grew increasingly more anxious, but with a twist of excitement and energy. She could not tell what was going on with him. One moment, he told her to run downstairs with him because they were running late, and the next, he asked her to join him for a drink at the hotel bar. Confused, she ordered a Strawberry Mint&nbsp;Mojito, unknowingly the last drink she would have before promising to spend forever with her one and only. She saw a silhouette of a box?&nbsp;A Wallet?&nbsp;SOMETHING was in Rob's pocket, as he&nbsp;nervously twitched in his seat and sipped his drink. She convinced herself it wasn't anything, and that she was overthinking.





Finally, the uber arrived, and Rob took a picture of Ari as they got into the car. They drove in the dark for what seemed like a lifetime. She had no idea where they were going. They flew past the Magic Kingdom sign. Were they heading back to Disney World?&nbsp;Wasn't the park closed??&nbsp;





The driver rolled them up to Disney's Grand Floridian. What were they doing here?&nbsp;It was all so luxurious and elegant on the inside, Ari felt like a princess walking through the halls. Rob and Ari noticed it was raining outside, so Rob bought them two Mickey umbrellas from the woman at the gift shop, and kindly asked her where the marina was. Rob and Ari, hand in hand, walked through the lobby, back outside, and down to the marina of the hotel. The entire time, Ari felt Rob's hand shaking. What was he so nervous about?&nbsp;She didn't mind a dinner cruise with a little rain.&nbsp;





They were greeted by a co-captain and the captain of the boat, and they all boarded. Ari quickly realized it was just the two of them and the co-captains, and she was so thankful and excited for a romantic dinner for two under the stars. They rode the boat through the lake right up to the Magic Kingdom's Castle, all along, getting a tour guide and some tips from the Captain.&nbsp;





The rain stopped, and the magical fireworks show began lighting up the night sky above the castle!&nbsp;Ari's favorite Disney songs started playing, and she happily sang along. Rob cleared his throat and said, "Hey babe, let's get up and take a picture together". So they got up, he burst out "Wow!&nbsp;Look at that one!"&nbsp;and pointed to the night sky to distract Ari. She turned back around, and there her Prince Charming was, down on one knee. A flash went off, and Ari finally realized that the 'Co-Captain' was a professional photographer all along!!&nbsp;All Rob&nbsp;got out was "Ari", before she started crying and shouting "Oh my God!"&nbsp;over and over again. He reminded her of how much he loved her, and asked if she would spend eternity with him. She hugged him tight, not believing what she was experiencing!&nbsp;He asked&nbsp;"...So uh, is that a yes?" And she said "Oh right!&nbsp;YES!!!!!" And let him slide the ring on her left finger before he leaned in, grabbed her tight, and kissed her. The photographer went wild taking as many photos of the two of them kissing and continuing to watch the fireworks.&nbsp;





On the way back to the marina,&nbsp;Ari called some of her family and friends, who already knew about the proposal plan. When they came ashore, two Disney employees excitedly&nbsp;handed Rob and Ari Bride&Groom Mickey&Minnie ears while shouting&nbsp;their Congratulations, and the photographer held a photoshoot for the couple around the grounds of the Grand Floridian. Once they finished with the photos, Rob and Ari&nbsp;continued making their phone calls, exchanging kisses, and gazing in awe at the bride-to-be's beautiful ring. They returned to the JW Marriott for some congratulatory champagne on&nbsp;the house, and shared a bowl of mac & cheese while they talked with their pup Kai&nbsp;about how magical this night has been.&nbsp;





The next morning, they had an amazing&nbsp;brunch buffet at the hotel's restaurant, shared some quality time at the pool, and then headed back home to start planning the rest of time&nbsp;together.&nbsp;





 





This was the magical start to #HappiLentoEverAfter&nbsp;

The Magical Proposal to #HappiLentoEverAfter.  September 30th, 2017. 

Our Story

Details

Photos

One of Rob’s best friends, they work together at NAVSEA 

Gary De Graff

One of Rob’s best friends, they met in college 

Matthew Hiltz

Joe Lento

The Bride's Sister! She may drive Ari nuts half the time, but like Nana always said-- "A Sister Will Make the Best of Friend. Cherish That." Aleyna and Ari have literally been through everything together, and have sipped their iced lattes together through it all. Ari is so thankful to have Aleyna as "Part of Her World"!

Aleyna Spinelli

Steven Spinelli

From sneaking the young&nbsp;Ari into bars, to teasing our silly KP&nbsp;boy group,&nbsp;to&nbsp;Pinot Noir to being Dog Mommies, Ari is so thankful to have Emily as “Part of Her World!”

Emily Rowan

One of Rob’s best friends, they met in college

Charlie Boucher

Michael Curci

One of Rob’s best friend, they met in college 

Jacob Shadle

Justin Bixler

Chris Lento

Hunter Rowan 

A beautiful and unique woman, Janel is Ari's Pledge Sister. Sometimes Ari thinks they share the same mind or something, because their connection is so strong and they think the same things at the same time too often for it to be a coincidence! Ari is so thankful to have Janel as "Part of Her World"!

Janel Stevenson

One of Ari's wacky cousins that she grew up with. Ari used to spend days at a time with her in Brooklyn, and Tashy's family used to visit her home on Long Island as many times as they could. Tashy and Ari share a love of adventure, travel, dogs, and just being the best person they can be each and every day&lt;3 Ari is so thankful to have Natasha as "Part of Her World"!

Natasha Dasaro

Ari's first DC&nbsp;friend! Michelle has always been so warm and welcoming to Ari, even on the very first day they met in Arlington. Their acquaintance-ship through their boys being friends from KP quickly grew into an irreplaceable friendship that's meant to last.&nbsp;Ari is so thankful to have Michelle as a mentor in her career path and as&nbsp;"Part of Her World"!

Michelle De Graff

Ari's longest friendship. "Fuzzy-Mustards" since the First Grade!! Bridget has always been Ari's source of guidance, unconditional love, and just wonderful memories around Pequa&lt;3 Ari is so thankful to have Bridget as "Part of Her World"!&nbsp;

Bridget Jordan

Ari's best friend since the 7th grade. Ari has always looked up to Irene for her individuality, no-sh** banter and conversations when the two hangout, and her sense of style too. Irene and Ari have been through so much together, and she's so thankful to have Irene as "Part of Her World"!

Irene Karayiannis

Ari's best dance friend!&nbsp; Paula and Ari met in "Asian Performing Arts 1" where they had to be partners for a chinese scarf and fan dance. What could have been just another class credit, turned into a wonderful friendship!&nbsp;Paula has been there for Ari through the best and worst of times, and she's so thankful to have Paula as "Part of Her World"!

Paula Katsanos

Ari may have met Liz through Rob, but they have a bond like no-other. Ari and Liz confide so much&nbsp;in each-other, and Ari appreciates so much that they&nbsp;try their best to make time to see eachother despite Liz being on a ship half the year and Ari just always being busy. Liz is a beautiful, loving soul and Ari is so thankful to have her as "Part of Her World"!

Liz Noonan

Ari's TFA&nbsp;DC&nbsp;friend!&nbsp;One of the only good things to come out of all of that stress, was the friendship Ari formed with Jenny and a few other members. From the minute they met, Ari felt Jenny's warmhearted, fun-loving,&nbsp; and sweet spirit. It's just a plus that she also got Ari into the good wine ;) Jenny is one of the most giving, loving, and supportive friends Ari has ever had.&nbsp;Ari is so thankful to have Jenny as "Part of Her World"!

Jenny Moroney

Wedding Party

Registry

Q + A

Our guests are welcome to stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Roslyn NY for a discounted rate of $209/night. Complimentary shuttle services to and from the ceremony, reception, and hotel will be available. 

Be sure to use this link to&nbsp;Book your room here:&nbsp;<a href="http://hiltongardeninn.hilton.com/en/gi/groups/personalized/N/NYCPWGI-SPILEN-20190726/index.jhtml" target="_blank">Lento/Spinelli Wedding Hotel Block</a>

If you decide to call to reserve, please mention the Lento/Spinelli Wedding to get our hotel rate!&nbsp;

Ariana & Robert

Ariana & Robert

Travel

Hilton Garden Inn Roslyn