LOS ANGELES - Newlyweds Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz say they are expecting a baby.

"While many have speculated about this, we wanted to wait until after the first trimester to officially confirm that we are expecting our first child," read a statement Wednesday on Wentz's blog. "This is truly the most joyous time in our lives and we are excited to share the happy news and start our family."

Simpson, 23, and Fall Out Boy bassist Wentz, 28, exchanged vows earlier this month at Simpson's parents' Los Angeles-area home. Sister Jessica was the maid of honor.

The couple began dating in fall 2006 and announced their engagement April 9.

Ashlee Simpson's latest album, "Bittersweet World," was released last month. It peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 in its first week, and tracks have logged more than 19 million plays on her MySpace page.

A representative for Simpson did not immediately return a call Wednesday seeking comment.

Source: AP