Greg Russo and Stephanie Scott both grew up in Italian-American homes where family, faith, and tradition were the rhythm of everyday life. Sundays meant church followed by sauce on the stove,food and family time, holidays meant homes full of family & love, life was built around loyalty, community, and the comfort of familiar faces. For Stephanie’s family, one of those familiar places was always Russo’s Market. The Sangalli and DalPonte family crews made countless runs for their favorite Italian staples and traditional novelties—ties to a heritage they deeply cherished.

Life has a way of weaving stories long before the people in them realize what’s happening. As Stephanie entered a season of transition, Greg—ever thoughtful—sent her a simple message offering support and an open ear. It was a small gesture, but one rooted in kindness, understanding, and the values they had both been raised with.

Not long after, Stephanie’s mother heard about the opening of the new Russo’s at Tanger location and made dinner reservations. Greg was spending long hours in the kitchen during that time, pouring his passion into food and the family business. When Stephanie sent him a Facebook message letting him know she and her mom were dining there, he stepped away for a moment and came out with his son, Leo, to say hello.

That first hello changed everything.

There was an instant, unmistakable connection—warm, natural, and grounded in something that felt both new and deeply familiar. One week later they had their first date… and they never stopped.

Over the past year, their story has grown from a spark into a shared life filled with meaning. Together, Greg, Stephanie, and their families have weathered challenges, celebrated victories, and pursued big dreams. They brought Festa Italiana back to life, continued expanding the Russo legacy, and leaned into what true love, loyalty, and partnership really look like.

Their journey is rooted in everything that has always mattered most to them:

family, faith, food, heritage, and heart.

Greg and Stephanie look forward to building a life together—one rich with tradition, growth, and joy. They are committed to honoring where they come from while embracing the future with open arms, excited to grow both as individuals and as a couple.

Because when love is built on shared values and deep roots… it only grows stronger.