Matthew and Shayna Sweeney were married on May 10 at Castello di Ristonchi in Pelago, Italy. It became a beautiful family reunion as she made her way down the aisle with her father, Rob McHugh, and her stepfather, Vinny Mauro. This extraordinary moment brought into focus her profound affection for each man. It exemplified their dedication to family.
The troubles into Shayna Sweeney’s life Vinny Mauro stepped in about eight years old. Ever since that night, he has been an irreplaceable figure in her development. Their friendship has grown through the years, and Shayna even calls Nick one of the most important people in her life. Talking about their relationship, she said, “He’s just like my rock. He really is so important in my life.”
Shayna and her dad made the most beautiful, loving, surprising decision together. They invited Vinny to walk down the aisle with them. It was Rob McHugh’s brainchild. When Rob first came up with the idea during wedding planning, he had just a simple thought.
“During the wedding planning process, I got a call from my dad, and he said, ‘How about we ask Vinny to walk down the aisle with us?’” – Shayna Sweeney
This decision brought immense joy to Shayna. She thought about how meaningful her father’s marriage proposal was. Now, that made me really happy,” she said. It was the perfect combination of everything I had been looking for. The occasion was undoubtedly emotional, particularly for Vinny, who fought back tears throughout the ceremony.
“You could just tell Vinny was holding back tears. It meant so much to him,” – Shayna Sweeney
Shayna’s appreciation extends outside of this memorable occasion. She rallies around all our characters every day, but really appreciates Rob and Vinny’s dedication to family and capacity for forgiveness. She admitted being proud of both, acknowledging their importance in shaping her life.
“We talk every day. He’s just the most generous, giving, loyal person, and I am just so grateful for him and our relationship,” – Shayna Sweeney
Videographer Daniele Cribari was there to photograph the emotional reunion. When he later posted it on TikTok, the clip exploded, amassing over 7 million views in a matter of days.
“It was honestly such a special moment. I’m never going to forget that,” – Shayna Sweeney