Here we are, OUR story! To be honest, there are two versions of "our story" that I can share.

If you ask me (Mel), I'll tell you all about my move from California to Pennsylvania and the journey that followed and how it led me to Tony. However, when you ask Tony, he'll tell you all simply: he bought me online from Mexico! lol

In all reality though it's pretty simple to be honest. It started out with a get together amongst friends and it was in the blink of an eye that our two lives became one.

For me it was immediately apparent that this man is something different.

It was our second date. We went to the Giants vs Pirates game at PNC Park and it was that same day that I called my mom and told her "I am going to marry this man." And everyday after that he continuously proved to me that I do not want to live this life without him. Honestly though I must have done the right things along the way too because after numerous of his getting down on one knee to "fix his pants/shoe/ etc." pranks, he did just as I'd hoped he would!

It was January 31st, 2023 and we were at the Versace Mansion in Miami for what I thought was going to be just a romantic dinner date... because I looked at his pockets before leaving and didn't see a ring box lol. We had just ordered our dinner and he excused himself to the restroom. As he was walking back, I again, glanced at his pockets and saw no ring box. When he got back to the table he asked if I wanted to get up and take some pictures "before we get bloated," naturally I said yes that's a great idea... not expecting what was to come just minutes later. As we were taking our pictures the gal we asked to take the photos was about to hand me my phone back when Tony said "Wait, can you take one more?" "but first LET ME FIX MY PANTS." I immediately ROLLED MY EYES and said "C'mon babe don't play like that in front of all these people."

Thankfully I didn't roll my eyeballs out of my head because when I finally looked back, he was down on one knee holding a ring box that I OBVIOUSLY didn't see!! I was so in shock that I was speechless, which most of you know it takes a lot to make me speechless. He literally asked me if I was going to answer and at that point all I was able to do was nod my head YES! :) <3

I don't think he'll ever stop making fun of me for not being able to speak or eat my dinner that night lol

We decided shortly after our engagement that we didn't want to wait until next year to get married. So, on May 17th 2023, we exchanged our vows here in Beaver County, Pennsylvania. We were accompanied by his mom Cindy, his brother Leo, our boys Collin and Izaac, and my dear friend Dakota. As well as my mom Tammi, my dad Paul, my other mom Candie and my grandmother Carmen all via FaceTime. It was a sentimental very private moment that we were elated to share with our immediate family members.

With all that being said, we are extremely excited and look forward to sharing our love, in person, with you all at our formal ceremony and reception!

XOXO,

Mr. & Mrs. Reda