Dolores Catania and Paulie Connell Are Engaged (Exclusive)
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Real Housewives of New Jersey stars Dolores Catania and Paulie Connell are engaged. The couple shared the exciting news with PEOPLE, revealing that their engagement took place at the very location where they first met nearly 5 years ago. The surprise proposal has left both Catania and Connell glowing with happiness and excitement.
Catania, 54, expressed her sheer joy at the engagement, describing the overwhelming feeling of being loved in such a special way. She shared, “You know when you feel that happiness in your gut? That’s where this excitement stems from for me. I feel so blessed, I almost feel guilty! Like I don’t deserve to be loved this way.” On the other hand, Connell, 51, praised Catania as an incredible woman and expressed his admiration for her, highlighting the positive impact she has on everyone around her.
The couple’s engagement has been long-awaited by fans, who have been eagerly anticipating their union. Catania reflects on the journey that led them to this point, stressing the importance of patience and allowing their relationship to naturally progress. She elaborates, “Our bond is stronger now because of that. As a couple, we were able to naturally progress, so this engagement means more to us than if it was just something we were doing for the sake of it.”
The proposal took place at the Apple Store in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, where the couple first crossed paths. Connell ensured the moment was intimate and authentic, opting for a low-key setting that held sentimental value for both of them. Catania recalls her surprise and amusement at the proposal, admitting, “Oh, I had not a clue at all. In fact, I thought I was going to have to call an ambulance for him!” The heartfelt moment was captured beautifully by photographer Jennifer Sofia.
After saying yes to Connell’s proposal, Catania returned home to a stunning display of over 1,000 roses, showcasing Connell’s thoughtful gestures. The engagement ring, an 11-carat masterpiece from John Anthony Jewelers in Edgewater, New Jersey, is a symbol of their love and commitment. The ring, featuring a central 11-carat stone surrounded by additional sparkle, reflects their shared journey and Connell’s unwavering affection for Catania.
As they savor the joy of their engagement, Catania and Connell have not rushed into wedding plans. While Catania mentions a sentimental attachment to the month of November, they are eager to bask in the happiness of their engagement and savor the moment. With upcoming milestones like Frankie’s wedding and potential house moving plans, they are content to wait for the perfect timing for their wedding day.
The couple’s love story is a testament to patience, understanding, and unwavering devotion. Catania and Connell’s engagement marks a new chapter in their lives, filled with love, happiness, and the promise of a future together. Their journey serves as an inspiration to fans and admirers, showcasing the beauty of finding true love and companionship. As they embark on this new adventure, Catania and Connell continue to capture hearts with their genuine bond and profound connection.