Waypoint 4180

Rehearsal Dinner

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

The Beginning: Happy DaysAnthony and Rachael’s love story starts way back in their preschool days at "Happy Days," where they were two tiny tots unknowingly sharing the same toys. Little did they know that fate had something much more exciting in store for them beyond finger paints and nap times. Crossed Paths, But Never CloseGrowing up in the same town, Anthony and Rachael knew of each other but never quite connected. Life took them on separate paths—Rachael headed off to Pitt for college while Anthony went to YSU, living his best life. They weren’t exactly close friends, but their worlds often overlapped in familiar circles. The DM ChroniclesFast forward to the era of social media, where Anthony, with a casual swipe and a sprinkle of courage, slid into Rachael’s DMs. Add in a Snapchat friend request, and soon, they were talking every day. Rachael thought they were just friends, enjoying the easy banter and daily chats. Anthony, however, had hopes of something more but felt like he was slowly getting friend-zoned. The Back-and-Forth TangoAs the months passed, their conversations grew deeper, filled with shared dreams and endless laughter. Rachael began to feel a spark, realizing she was interested in more than friendship. But just as her heart started to flutter, Anthony became unsure of his own feelings. And so began their back-and-forth tango—two steps forward, one step back. A RealizationDespite the dance of uncertainty, Rachael and Anthony kept finding themselves in the same friend groups, always circling back to each other. It was like the universe was giving them little nudges, whispering that they belonged together. Finally, Anthony had his "aha" moment, realizing that Rachael wasn’t just a friend; she was the one. Best TogetherAfter navigating through their twists and turns, Anthony and Rachael finally found their rhythm. Their friendship blossomed into love, and they discovered that together, they could conquer anything. From preschool pals to life partners, their journey is a testament to the magic of timing and perseverance. The EngagementAfter a few years of dating and living together, Anthony decided it was time to make things official. On a weekend hiking getaway with their good friends Gabi and Danny, Anthony and Gabi cooked up a master plan. The setting? A breathtaking waterfall that seemed to gush with as much excitement as Anthony was feeling.As they reached the perfect spot, Gabi gave Anthony a wink and a nudge, signaling that it was go-time. Anthony took a deep breath, dropped to one knee, and asked Rachael to be his forever hiking partner. It was the easiest yes ever, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the cheers of their friends.

Our Love Story

Our Story

Photos

Gabi and Rachael met in PT school at YSU. Their friendship flourished despite living through a pandemic while graduating and studying for the boards exam. Days spent in nature while talking about life and dreams led to a beautiful friendship. 
Gabi was Anthony's boss at YSU when he worked at the Campus Rec (full circle moment). 
They also worked well together while planning the engagement and performing the pass off of the ring without Rachael noticing!

Gabriella Gessler

Shannon and Rachael also went to PT school together! Shannon and her (now) husband, Elliott, had the joy of living with Rachael during their final clinical rotation in Columbus. They shared a tiny carriage house that was full of fun memories! Their friendship continued with hiking trips and plenty of weekends spent in Columbus!

Shannon Metheny

Emily and Rachael ALSO met in PT school! Fun fact: Emily was with Rachael when she met Anthony for the first time in Downtown Youngstown. After seeing them both dance at O'Donald's, she said "You two are perfect for each other!" Emily and Rachael's friendship has grown in the years since PT school and now Rachael is "Aunt Rach" to Emily's two daughters. 

Emily Robertson

Nina was the original Italian in Rachael's life before Anthony. Nina and Rachael were roommates in undergrad at Pitt. Their days were filled with laughs, screaming matches and Just Dance in the living room!

Nina Azinger

Nicki made up the last third of the Trio that lived together at Pitt. Lovingly referred to as, the craigslist roommate, because Rachael met Nicki online. Rachael and Nicki met in a Starbucks and decided to be roommates. Rachael, Nina and Nicki became friends instantly. Rachael finally knew what it was like to have sisters in college!

Nicki Bioni

Alex married Rachael's brother, Neal! Alex has been in Rachael's life since her senior year in high school. Alex has always treated Rachael like her sister. When she first met Anthony she said "Wow, I love him!"

Alexandra McCall

Nicole is Anthony's sister! She is mom to Carleena and Michael who always give Rachael a run for her money when they are around. Nicole has embraced Rachael as part of the family and Rachael is lucky to have another sister!

Nicole Firmstone

Danielle is Anthony's sister-in-law, she is married to Joel- Best Man! She is mom to Nico and Aria! Prior to Rachael, Danielle was known to question Anthony about his love life and offer advice. She has embraced Rachael with open arms and is thankful they are finally getting married!

Danielle Lariccia

Jenny is Anthony's sister-in-law. She is married to his brother (and other best man), Dom! She is mom to Lorenzo, Ellie and Luca! Jenny has also always treated Rachael like family. She is excited for the wedding!

Jenny Lariccia

Joel is Anthony's oldest brother. Joel was one of two people Anthony always looked up to in life. Typical role of the oldest brother, Joel taught Anthony the dos and don'ts in life and at home. Through sports, jobs and friendships, Joel has shaped Anthony into the man he is today.  

Joel Lariccia

Dom is Anthony's second oldest brother. Dom has been another huge role model for Anthony. They shared friends who often played in the Lariccia's front yard. Dom never minded Anthony "tagging along." The famous wiffle ball games created lasting memories and lessons that Anthony carries through life.

Dominic Lariccia

Mike is Anthony's brother-in-law. Mike was a seamless addition to Anthony's life as a 3rd brother. Mike and Anthony share the same love for sports, casinos and both have "happy go lucky" attitudes. Mike is another person that really set the standard and helped Anthony grow into the person he is today.

Mike Firmstone

Neal is Rachael's brother. He has always had high standards for Rachael's partners. After a night out with Rachael and Anthony, he told Rachael "He is really cool, I like him!" Neal has considered Anthony part of the family for a long time. 

Neal McCall

Korey has been by Anthony's side from the beginning. Growing up with older brothers around the same ages, the friendship easily grew. The two love playing pool basketball together and enjoying their favorite sports teams. (Rachael forgives Korey for being a Ravens fan). Korey has been a ride or die for Anthony.

Korey Karas

Danny and Anthony have been friends since meeting at the famous "Pape" household that often had gatherings of friends. Since meeting, Danny and Anthony always shared love for football which they played together. The two have shared many vacations, sporting events and memories together that will continue for years to come.

Daniel Pape

Mike and Anthony have been friends ever since meeting playing little league sports. Mike, and the Pape family, quickly became another family to Anthony. They've shared winning the little league championship and exploring new areas such as Mexico and Toronto. Anthony will also be apart of Mike's wedding this fall as the two continue to create more memories together.

Michael Pape

Dan and Anthony met and became friends instantly. Meeting through many of the groomsmen listed, Dan and Anthony have been close for years attending school together. They often meet up at the gym to workout together and talk about life. Dan is and always will be another one of Anthony's extra "brothers" in life.

Daniel Dudley

Dylan and Anthony have been friends since they were 9 years old. Growing up playing sports together bonded them for life. Dylan's house was a second home for Anthony. Sharing home cooked meals from two of the best mothers around happened frequently. The two have been close ever since meeting and continue to share memories together including celebrating Dylan's marriage and his beautiful baby daughter. 

Dylan Schmidt

The "A team" have been friends for as long as Anthony can remember. Latessa was one of Anthony's firsts friends in Struthers and the two continue to be best friends ever since. Every year, they share new years day together with their families with some of the best memories that will last a lifetime!

Anthony Latessa

Ray and Anthony have been friends ever since meeting in high school playing summer baseball. Ray has become like family to Anthony. They have shared playoff games, college beers and family vacations. "Ray Ray" has always been the life of the party and continues to be Anthony's right hand man.

Ray Klempay

Wedding Party

Q + A

We have a block of rooms at the hotel attached the the venue! The last day to make reservations is May 6th, 2026.

Courtyard by Marriott Youngstown Canfield

This hotel is also walking distance from the venue.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Canfield

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Canfield

Pittsburgh Airport is about 1 hour from the venue and hotels.

Pittsburgh International Airport

Travel

If you are looking for some time in nature, this is the place for you. Some of our favorite spots are the Lanterman's Mill and Fellows Riverside Gardens

Mill Creek Metro Parks

Kensington Grille is a great place to eat. It is conveniently located at the wedding venue. There is also the Kensington golf course which is a fun place to hit the links.

Kennsington Golf Club & Grille

If you like Italian and baked goods, this is the spot for you. The building is an old bank which still has a vault you can make reservations for. The food is delicious--our favorite is the gnocchi.

Selah Restaurant

Kabob house has FANTASTIC mediterranean cuisine. The food is fresh and the staff are super friendly. (The pistachio baklava is a must)

KABOB HOUSE

Fancy a brewski? This the place for you! Penguin City is located in the heart of Youngstown with a fun atmosphere to have a few drinks. There is often live music on the weekends.

Penguin City Brewing Company

We wouldn't truly be native to Youngstown without recommending some Handel's ice cream! Handel's is at the top of our list for ice cream joints. Go-to flavors: Graham Central Station, Spouse like a House and Anthony's favorite Grape

Rachael & Anthony