Wedding Day

Blessed Sacrament Church

Ceremony

Glen Island Harbour Club

Reception

Our Wedding

Philip and Nadia's journey together began on Halloween night in 2021, in the midst of the pandemic, in Norwalk, Connecticut, Philip, a Mechanical Engineer at Dannon Yogurt, and Nadia, a dedicated Physician, crossed paths in a way neither of them could have predicted. At a time when the world was slowing down and social interactions were limited, fate brought them together in an unexpected and serendipitous way. The world outside may have been uncertain, but their connection was immediate and felt like a comforting certainty. What started as a simple meeting in a waterfront restaurant, soon turned into something much more profound. Despite their different backgrounds - Philip with his love for problem-solving and innovation, and Nadia with her deep compassion for caring for others - they quickly realized that their paths were meant to merge.Through long conversations, many many shared laughs, and the quiet moments of just being in each other's company, they discovered that they both valued curiosity, resilience, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place in their own ways.

As the months passed and the world began to heal, so also did their bond together grow. Philip and Nadia experienced not only the changing seasons of the years, but also of life. They experienced the wonderful joys of traveling all around the world - from simple dinners in the city, to eating poke in the back of a Jeep in the middle of the Road to Hana in Maui, Hawaii. They also experienced lots of trying times together that would have pushed most couples away, but Philip and Nadia's love and commitment to each other was stronger than any hardship in the world. Today, they are grateful for the timing and the chance encounter that brought them together, and even more grateful for the life they're building - one full of love, laughter, and endless adventures!

Our Story

Photos

Peter Spano is not just Philip’s older brother; he’s been a constant source of love, support, and protection throughout Philip’s life.  From an early age, Peter assumed the role of not just an older brother, but a true guardian angel.  Whether it was rescuing Philip from attacking dogs, pulling him out of dangerous situations like near-drownings in above-ground swimming pools, or stopping him from crawling down the stairs as a toddler, Peter has always been there to keep him safe.

But Peter’s devotion goes far beyond the physical.  When Philip was diagnosed with leukemia, Peter’s unwavering support became even more evident.  He took time off from work to drive Philip to the hospital and cancer treatment center every single day - never once hesitating, always putting his brother’s needs first.  Through long, difficult days and countless challenges, Peter’s love, dedication, and kindness never faltered.  He did everything he could to help Philip fight, heal, and ultimately overcome the toughest battle of his life.

Peter is the embodiment of what it means to be a loving, honorable, and selfless person.  I am beyond grateful to have him as my best man and am proud to call him my brother.

Peter Spano

Paul Spano is Philip’s younger brother, but in many ways, he’s been his best friend and constant companion.  With a heart as big as his personality, Paul has always been there to support and love Philip, no matter the circumstances.  Growing up, Paul was always eager to be by Philip's side - whether it was to share in adventures, or simply spend time together doing what they love most: cooking.

From perfecting sausage recipes to entering (and placing) in pizza competitions, baking babkas, and experimenting with sourdough, the kitchen has always been where their bond has truly flourished.  There’s something special about the way Paul and Philip come alive when they’re planning their next meal or creating something new together.  It’s not just about food; it’s about the time spent, the memories made, and the joy they find in each other’s company.

Paul’s loving and supportive nature, along with his unshakeable loyalty, make him the perfect best man.  I’m incredibly grateful for our deep bond, and honored to have him standing by my side as I take this next step in life.

Paul Spano

Demos Pappas and Philip have shared a lifelong bond that began at Fordham Prep High School, where they first became fast friends.  Their journey continued after graduating when they both attended the same college, majoring in engineering together.  After college, Demos and Philip found themselves working at Air Products and Chemicals together, where they teamed up professionally and further solidified their friendship.  Beyond work, their shared love of golf brought them even closer, as they played countless rounds together and even competed in several golf tournaments.  Through the years, Demos has been a constant source of support, laughter, and camaraderie.  I am honored to have him by my side as a groomsman on this special day, celebrating not only the past we’ve shared but also the future we’re both excited to embrace.

Demos Pappas

David Moretti and Philip have shared a strong friendship that began in college, where they both studied engineering.  After graduating, they both had the opportunity to work side by side at Air Products, further deepening their friendship. Beyond work, David and Philip share a passion for cooking, often swapping recipes and enjoying delicious meals together.  Additionally, David and Philip were both founding members of the Norwalk Whiskey Club, where they shared love for fine spirits and explored the world of scotches and whiskey together. 
I am grateful for Dave's friendship and support, and I’m proud to have him by my side as one of my groomsmen on this special day.

David Moretti

Anton Dekarchuk and Philip first became friends while working together at Danone.  They quickly became friends while bonding over shared work experiences and a mutual appreciation for good food (especially steak!).  Outside of work, they both found camaraderie in the Norwalk Whiskey Club, where their friendship grew even stronger over shared tastings and great conversation.  Anton has been a true pillar of support, especially when Philip was diagnosed with leukemia, offering unwavering encouragement and care during some of the toughest times.  His kindness, loyalty, and friendship mean the world, and I am truly honored to have him by my side as a groomsman on this special day.

Anton Dekarchuk

Vrej Pilavdjian and Philip both attended Manhattan College however, their friendship really took off when they both started working together at Air Products in Allentown, PA.  There they shared lunch together every day, cooked dinner and even went on several day trips to Philidelphia and NYC.  Vrej always is the life of the party, bringing joy, energy and brightness wherever he goes.  I can't imagine a celebration without him there dancing away on the dance floor!

Vrej Pilavdjian

Natalie, my older sister, is truly a blessing in my life, and I couldn't be happier to have her by my side. We grew up together, and she was my very first friend. We served as altar servers together, and I have always admired her strong faith, love for God, and dedication to helping others. She has consistently been a wonderful source of support. When I was accepted into medical school in Grenada, she stood as a beacon of positivity amidst some negativity, offering great encouragement. Throughout my journey in medical school and residency, she was always there to listen and provide advice. Plus, her keen eye for fashion and her incredible skills as a wedding planner make her even more special. I am truly honored to have her as my maid of honor.

Natalie Orr

Francesca and I were meant to be best friends from the very beginning. While studying together in Grenada, we both boarded the same bus after church. We sat near each other and introduced ourselves, and she quickly mentioned that her middle name was Nadia. As I was getting off the bus, I noticed her following me, and it turned out we lived right across the street from one another. We dedicated ourselves to our studies and bonded over our mutual love for soca music. Together, we’ve shared countless laughs and created incredible memories, from getting locked out of our London apartment while barefoot to dancing in front of the Colosseum in Italy. I feel truly blessed to have met her and to call her my best friend, sister, and now Madrina of my beautiful goddaughter, Paula. It’s an honor to have her as my matron of honor.

Francesca Escarra

Amanda is truly a treasure. I first encountered her during my interview at Norwalk Hospital, and she stood out as one of the kindest individuals I met. I felt fortunate to cross paths with her, as it ultimately contributed to my move to Connecticut. After I matched at Norwalk, we began having regular meetings since she lived just upstairs from me. I cherished every wine and cheese night, along with our rom-com and Christmas movie marathons. She embraced me with open arms, and I am incredibly grateful she did. It is a great honor to have her as a bridesmaid.

Amanda Lindo

Giselle and I embarked on our residency journey together at the onset of COVID, and while it was a challenging path, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had her by my side. Having someone there from the beginning, who remained through all the highs and lows, made a significant difference. She is one of the strongest individuals I know and shares my Caribbean roots, hailing from Dominica, which means we both cherish our music and cuisine. I am truly honored to have her as my bridesmaid.

Giselle Volney

Alizeh was the very first friend I made in Colorado, and she truly has one of the biggest hearts. We bond over our mutual love for seafood, travel, and some relaxed girl time. I've treasured our numerous brunch and dinner outings at various restaurants across Colorado, our adventures in Amsterdam and Brussels, and countless laughs shared in the office. I feel honored to have her as my bridesmaid.

Alizeh RIzvi

Virginia and I met during residency. She joined us at the right time when we needed her most. She brought a lot of joy and positivity to our program when we had a rocky start.  Virginia has always had the best timing and brings very bright and infectious energy wherever she goes. Always a good time filled with laughter. She’s driven from Boston to Norwalk to have lunch dates with her friends as we have kept our friendship since residency. I value and cherish our friendship very much. I am honored to have her as my bridesmaid.



Virginia Ruiz 

Wedding Party

Q + A

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Sonesta White Plains Downtown

Travel

If you are wanting to do a trip into Manhattan, you can get the Train from White Plains to go directly to Manhattan.

Philip & Nadia

Philip & Nadia

Photos