Dolores Catania is celebrating a major family milestone after her daughter, Gabrielle Catania, got engaged during a surprise proposal in Aspen, Colorado.
The “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star’s daughter said yes to boyfriend Mike Tallia during a snowy mountain moment, as first reported by PEOPLE. Gabrielle Catania’s engagement quickly drew attention among fans of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.”
The proposal was intentionally kept quiet, with only a small circle aware of the plan ahead of time.
According to the outlet, Tallia popped the question on March 19 during a day on the slopes. The surprise caught Gabrielle completely off guard.
Gabrielle has largely stayed out of the spotlight compared to her mother. In photos from the moment, she appears visibly surprised, dressed in snow gear as Tallia gets down on one knee.
Inside the Aspen Proposal
The proposal unfolded against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains, making the moment feel both intimate and unexpected.
Tallia proposed with a 5.03-carat oval-cut diamond ring from John Anthony Jewelers. The same jeweler created Dolores Catania’s own engagement ring, adding another meaningful connection for the family.
Photos shared from the proposal show Gabrielle reacting with shock before embracing Tallia, with the couple later posing together on the mountain.
Dolores Catania Reacts to the Engagement
Dolores Catania quickly reacted to the engagement, sharing how meaningful the moment is for her family.
“I am happy they have found their forever,” she told PEOPLE.
The engagement marks a significant moment for Dolores, who has often spoken about her close relationship with her children on “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” Gabrielle, a veterinarian, has generally kept a lower profile than her brother Frankie. That makes the news especially notable for longtime viewers.
A Big Moment for the Catania Family
GettyThe proposal comes just over a year after Gabrielle’s younger brother, Frankie Catania, also got engaged, signaling a new chapter for the family.
While Gabrielle has not been a central figure on “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” she has appeared on the show over the years, often in quieter, family-focused moments alongside her mother.
The engagement marks a new chapter for the Catania family. Both of Dolores Catania’s children are now stepping into major life milestones. For longtime viewers of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” it’s a reminder of how much has changed since Gabrielle first appeared on screen alongside her mother.
Mazel tov to the whole family!
Any relation to Joseph @ Barbara Catania of Ft. Lee, New Jersey? I worked with Barbara back in the early 60’s in New York. My maiden name was “.Gordon”. Thank-you.