Dolores Catania Engaged: ‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ Star Finds Bliss with Paulie Connell
In a heartwarming turn of events, Dolores Catania, beloved star of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New Jersey, has announced her engagement to longtime partner Paul “Paulie” Connell. The news, confirmed on November 12, 2025, has sent waves of excitement through fans eager to witness the next chapter in Catania’s personal life. The couple’s journey, marked by patience and genuine connection, culminates in a promise of forever, and a future filled with love and shared happiness.
A Love Story Rooted in Patience and Understanding
Dolores Catania, 54, and Paul Connell, 51, began dating in 2020. Their relationship unfolded gradually, navigating the complexities of public life and personal growth. Catania has often spoken about Connell’s initial reluctance to embrace the spotlight, emphasizing the importance of allowing him the space to adjust and find his footing. This mutual respect and understanding formed the bedrock of their bond.
“I’m ecstatic!” Catania shared in an exclusive interview with People magazine. “You know when you feel that happiness down 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.” Connell echoed her sentiments, adding, “I keep telling Dolores, she deserves that and so much more. She’s an incredible woman. And when I was proposing to her, I was able to articulate to her everything I see that she is, and everything I see that she does, and the impact she has on everybody around her. She’s one in a million.”
The Proposal: A Sweetly Unexpected Moment
Connell orchestrated a proposal that perfectly reflected their down-to-earth nature. He chose the Apple Store in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey – the very place where they first met – as the setting for this momentous occasion. “I could have proposed on a yacht in Greece or rented a grand hall with fireworks,” Connell explained, “But that’s not who we are. We’re a humble couple. I wanted it to feel grounded and natural and organic — plus, I wanted the element of surprise. And believe me, I had the element of surprise.”
Catania recounted the surprise, admitting she initially thought Connell was experiencing a medical emergency. “Oh, I had not a clue at all. In fact, I thought I was going to have to call an ambulance for him! He was sweating so bad, his T-shirt was soaked, his face was beet red. He started saying these sweet, beautiful things, and I was like, ‘Paul, are you okay?’ Then I realized he was proposing.”
Following the proposal, Catania was greeted with a stunning display of over 1,000 roses, arranged by Premiere Events by Reema, and a breathtaking 15-carat engagement ring from John Anthony Jewelers in Edgewater, New Jersey. The date, November 10th, held additional significance, marking the anniversary of the day Catania moved in with Connell four years prior.
Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Solid Foundations
While fans are eager to see a wedding date, the couple is prioritizing enjoying this special time. “I’d love to get married the day we got engaged,” Connell joked, “but we really want to enjoy this moment and absorb it all. We have Frankie’s wedding coming up, we’re talking about moving into a new house, and when we do get married, we want it to be perfect.”
Catania added, “There’s no rush. The way we’ve set our life up, we can do things however and whenever we want. I don’t do things based on what people think I should do. I’ve never done that.” She playfully acknowledged the long-awaited question of marriage, noting, “I’m just glad Dolores won’t have to answer that question anymore — ‘When is this man going to propose to you?’”
This engagement marks a beautiful new chapter for Catania and Connell, built on a foundation of patience, understanding, and unwavering love. What does this engagement signify for the future of their relationship, and how will it impact their dynamic on The Real Housewives of New Jersey? And will we see a televised wedding?
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolores Catania’s Engagement
What is the significance of the Apple Store proposal for Dolores Catania and Paul Connell?
The Apple Store in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, is where Dolores and Paul first met, making it a deeply sentimental location for their engagement.
How long have Dolores Catania and Paul Connell been dating before getting engaged?
Dolores Catania and Paul Connell began dating in 2020, meaning they were together for over five years before their engagement.
What kind of engagement ring did Paul Connell give Dolores Catania?
Paul Connell presented Dolores Catania with a stunning 15-carat engagement ring from John Anthony Jewelers.
Are Dolores Catania and Paul Connell planning a quick wedding?
No, Dolores and Paul are not rushing into wedding plans. They want to savor their engagement and enjoy upcoming family events before setting a date.
What has been the key to Dolores Catania and Paul Connell’s successful relationship?
Patience and understanding have been crucial to their relationship, particularly allowing Paul time to adjust to public life and personal growth.
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Disclaimer: Archyworldys provides entertainment news and does not offer relationship advice.
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