Italian-Americans are a rare breed in Lexington, KY. So in many ways, it really was fate that Joe DePaolo and Michelle Oberto found each other deep in the heart of Bluegrass country. Their bond over family, food, and Italian culture at large proved so strong as to be almost magnetic. Even in a city of nearly a half million people, Joe and Michelle were truly destined to come together.

And if there’s one thing Italians know how to do, it’s throw a wedding. No, Don Corleone will not be there to grant your favors. But in every other way, the wedding of these two paesans is certain to be a memorable affair. And they are honored to have you join them as they celebrate the best day of their lives, and grateful to accept your wishes of Buona Fortuna.

This special day has been two years in the making – simmering to perfection like a Sunday Gravy on the stove top. Joe and Michelle’s relationship began in July 2022 with a magical dinner at Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse. Their first drink together? An Italian specialty – espresso martinis. Joe spilled his. He was captivated by the facia bella sitting before him. They drew the ire of the wait staff by lingering well after all the other diners cleared out. (Kind of like all those times Tony used to keep Artie open ‘til the wee small hours at Vesuvio’s.) Neither of them wanted to leave. It was instant love – Italian style.

After a successful second date on the golf course – that is, successful everywhere but on the scorecard – Joe knew it was time to go in for the close. Michelle sells insurance and Joe (now a writer) once sold electronics, so both appreciate the art of the close. And how did young Giuseppe seal the deal with the woman who’s about to become his bride? By inviting her to his home for an Italian dinner – where he made his famous Eggplant Parm (iykyk).

And just like that, the two young Italians were off in their gondola – cruising down the tunnel of love. The more time they spent together, the more they knew they’d each found their person. Throughout, their shared culture has been omnipresent. During the day, the couple regularly binge-watches Sopranos episodes they’ve already seen 20 times. (Joe is convinced Ralphie didn’t kill Pie O’ My, while Michelle is sure he did.) And at night, they often land at their favorite Italian haunt, Italx – before visiting Rupp Arena to watch their beloved Kentucky Wildcats who, until recently, were led by another prominent local paesan, John Calipari. (Buona sera, Coach Cal and Mrs. Cal -- Lexington's longtime Italian power couple. Thanks for passing the baton to Joe and Michelle.)

In September 2023, Joe brought Michelle back to his homeland – New York. They grabbed a slice of ‘za soon after they touched down – setting the tone for a grand Italian weekend complete with sang-wiches from Casa Della Mozzarella (which Joe will always pronounce “mutz-uh-dell”) and cannolis from DeLillo’s on Arthur Avenue. And when it came time for Joe to pop the question, he shared a glass of vino with Michelle at a picturesque vineyard on Long Island.

On Aug. 17, 2024, they will stand before their closest friends and family to declare their eternal commitment. But the I do’s are, in many ways, a mere formality. Because the idea that Joe and Michelle could ever live without each other? FUHGEDDABOUDIT!

M&J

Wedding Day

2:30 PM–4:00 PM

2:30 PM–4:00 PM

Ceremony

5:00 PM–10:00 PM

5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Reception