LOS ANGELES - Newlyweds Ashlee Simpson-Wentz 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-Wentz, 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 newlywed pop singer will go by Ashlee Wentz in private and professionally as Ashlee Simpson-Wentz, according to a report posted Wednesday on People.com.

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

Simpson-Wentz'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-Wentz did not immediately return a call Wednesday seeking comment.

On the Net:

Wentz's site: http://www.friendsorenemies.com