RHONJ Star Dolores Catania’s Engagement Nearly Spoiled by Fiancé’s Mistake

Dolores Catania of “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” is engaged to Paulie Connell. The couple announced their engagement after a proposal at a New Jersey Apple Store. The joyful moment almost did not happen due to a near-fatal error.Paulie Connell recently revealed he almost spoiled his own surprise proposal. He disclosed the mishap during a panel at the 2025 BravoCon event in front of a live audience.

Proposal Panic: The Ring Left on the Bed

Paulie explained the stressful incident to fans. He admitted to leaving the engagement ring out on his bed. This happened just two weeks before he planned to propose.He was looking at the ring to build courage for the big question. Dolores then unexpectedly walked into the room. Paulie recalled his immediate panic, thinking the surprise was ruined.Fortunately, Dolores did not see the ring. The proposal proceeded as planned on November 10. According to People, the ring features an 11-carat center stone.

A Ring Designed With Personal Insight

Paulie’s initial ring choice was completely wrong. He had purchased a stone early in their relationship. He later realized it was the opposite of what Dolores wanted.He went back to the drawing board over a year ago. The final ring was designed by John Anthony Jewelers in New Jersey. The stunning piece includes four additional carats of diamonds on the band.This attention to detail shows his deep understanding of her taste. The reset allowed him to create a ring she truly loved. The effort ensured the final moment was perfect.His proposal planning faced multiple delays. First, her ex-husband Frank got engaged. Then, her son Frankie Jr. proposed to his girlfriend in February.Paulie joked that it felt like no one wanted him to marry Dolores. He finally found the right moment at the place they first met nearly five years ago. The Apple Store location added a deeply personal touch to the celebration.

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The couple’s engagement story is a testament to patience and perfect timing. The Dolores Catania engagement marks a new chapter for the beloved RHONJ star. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details about their wedding plans.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: Where did Paulie Connell propose to Dolores Catania?

He proposed at the Apple Store in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. This was the same location where the couple first met nearly five years ago. He surprised her while she was there to get a new iPhone.

Q2: What are the details of Dolores Catania’s engagement ring?

The ring was designed by John Anthony Jewelers. It boasts an 11-carat center stone set in silver. The band is also lined with princess-cut diamonds, adding four more carats of sparkle.

Q3: How long have Dolores Catania and Paulie Connell been dating?

They have been dating for nearly five years. Their relationship has been featured on “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” They met at the very Apple Store where the proposal occurred.

Q4: Why did Paulie delay his proposal to Dolores?

He postponed the proposal multiple times due to other family engagements. First, Dolores’s ex-husband Frank got engaged. Then, her son Frankie Jr. proposed to his own girlfriend earlier this year.

Q5: Did Dolores Catania know about the proposal beforehand?

She was completely surprised. Although Paulie almost spoiled it by leaving the ring out, she did not see it. She believed she was simply going to the store to get a new phone.