Amanda Kay Cook and Andrew Philip Anello’s unconventional love story began with a set of nonnegotiables and a playful challenge. Cook, tired of relationships that led nowhere, decided to take matters into her own hands in October 2020. She set three nonnegotiables for her potential matches – seeking a long-term relationship, sharing her political views, and feeling passionate about social justice. This quickly narrowed down her pool of 30 matches, reminiscent of “The Bachelorette.”
Meanwhile, Anello, a guitarist and songwriter inspired by Prince, was introduced to Cook through a mutual friend. Playfully challenged by the friend, Anello messaged Cook on Instagram, sparking a connection that led to a FaceTime date that lasted an hour. Despite the distance between them, with Cook in Illinois for a month-long visit that turned into three months due to unexpected surgery, their connection only grew stronger.
As they texted and spoke every day, their bond deepened, and by December, Cook confessed her feelings for Anello. The couple finally met in person in January 2021, with Anello picking Cook up from the airport with a quick hug and peck due to airport security rushing them along. Their relationship blossomed as they shared Chinese takeout and long walks around New York City.
In April 2021, Cook and Anello moved in together in Williamsburg, and in February 2022, they adopted a rescue dog named Sasha. The couple took a ferry to Manhattan for a special dinner in April 2022, where Anello proposed outside the restaurant. They tied the knot on Leap Day, February 29, with a small ceremony at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau.
Now residing in Stuyvesant Town in Manhattan, the couple jokes about only having to remember their anniversary every four years. They plan to celebrate with a big trip every leap year. Cook and Anello’s love story is a testament to taking control of your own destiny and finding love in unexpected places.
