Love has a way of finding us when we least expect it, and for Melina Gallo, destiny came calling in a New York City record store.
What started as a chance encounter with Goo Goo Dolls’ main singer, John Rzeznik, blossomed into a beautiful romance that would change both their lives forever.
Today, Mellina stands as the woman who captured the heart of one of rock’s most beloved voices.
A Serendipitous Meeting That Changed Everything!
Back in 2006, Melina wasn’t looking for love when she walked into a Manhattan record store.
She was there on a mission: to organize charity auctions on eBay and collect autographs for a good cause.
Image source: Google
John was there for a routine signing event, but something magical happened when their eyes met. “We kind of hit it off and we talked on the phone for months,” John later shared, describing how there were sparks from the first moment they met.
What truly made their story endearing to me is John’s honest admission about his initial hesitation. He tried to run away from the relationship, overwhelmed by his feelings. But Melina’s wisdom and patience shone through with her simple response: “You’ll be here when you want to be.”
Building a Fruitful Life Together
Their phone conversations turned into something deeper, and by 2013, John knew he’d found his forever person.
Image source: Pinterest
On a beautiful summer day at Calamigos Farm in Malibu, surrounded by their closest friends and family, Melina and John exchanged vows under an ancient oak tree.
“The whole thing was just about family and friends. It was really beautiful and romantic,” John had reflected on their special day.
The couple lived happily after their marriage. Melina would accompany her husband to events. In a 2015 Instagram post by John, you can see that Melina was by his side before his performance.
View this post on Instagram
The Joy of Parenthood
In December 2016, their greatest blessing arrived: daughter Liliana Carella (nickname Lili).
Image source: Pinterest
Melina chose her daughter’s middle name to honor her mother’s maiden name. Watching John transform into a devoted father has been one of Melina’s greatest joys. “He is an amazing dad. She has him wrapped around her finger,” Melina beams when describing their dynamic.
Melina is also an incredible mother. In 2020, John shared a short Instagram video of Melina teaching Lili the value of patience and self-control using only chocolate chips!
On Father’s Day, John also shared a photo of Lili hanging off his arm, captioned “Lili just hanging around with me ♥️”
View this post on Instagram
Wrap Up
What started as a chance encounter in Manhattan blossomed into a love story that transformed both lives. Today, Melina and John’s romance continues to flourish, blessed with marriage, parenthood, and a family built on devotion.
Featured image source: Daily Mail