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‘Counting On’ Alum Jana Duggar Ties The Knot In 'Dream Come True' Wedding
By Afouda Bamidele on August 16, 2024 at 10:30 AM EDT
Jana Duggar is sharing her fairytale moment with the world.
The TV personality exchanged vows with her longtime love, Stephen Wissmann, in a wedding that was nothing short of magical. The couple, who announced their engagement just two months prior, said their vows in a lavish ceremony surrounded by family and friends.
Jana Duggar has remained steadfast in her faith and has found love and happiness with Stephen Wissmann.
Jana Duggar Marries Stephen Wissmann In Elegant Arkansas Ceremony
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The eldest of the Duggar clan exchanged vows with Stephen in Prairie Grove, Arkansas, on Thursday. Jana looked radiant in an ivory satin gown as she walked down the aisle with her father, Jim Bob Duggar, as the hymn "Holy, Holy, Holy" played in the background.
Jessa Duggar Seewald, Jana's sister, was the maid of honor, while her sisters and sister-in-law—Abbie Duggar, Joy-Anna Forsyth, Johannah Duggar, Jinger Duggar Vuolo, and Jordyn Duggar—were the bridesmaids.
The newlywed couple opted for a simple yet elegant theme, letting the beauty of their venue shine. The lovebirds, both from large families—Stephen being one of 13 siblings—made it a priority to create a day that honored their loved ones.
"We love to be able to get together and celebrate moments like these. And so to have all of them there, it just means a lot," Jana told PEOPLE.
After exchanging traditional vows and lighting a unity candle, the newlyweds joined 500 guests at the reception. As the evening drew to a close, Jana tossed her bouquet, marking the end of a magical day for the newlyweds and their families.
The Newlyweds Reconnected Years After First Meeting Through Their Families
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Jana and Stephen's love story is one of chance encounters and family ties that spans over a decade. The pair first met over 13 years ago when the Wissmann family, known for their musical performances, visited the Duggar home in Arkansas.
A rare snowstorm left the two families snowed in together, leading to long nights filled with games and puzzles. While Jana does not vividly remember Stephen from that time, those early days unknowingly laid the foundation for what would eventually become a romance.
"I don't really remember Stephen that well because I'm older than him and so he was not at all on my radar,' Jana shared. Years later, their paths crossed again, and they briefly dated before deciding to part ways. Still, the two kept in touch and "talked to each other on and off over the years."
A significant turning point came when Jana's brother, Jeremiah Duggar, married Stephen's sister, Hannah. This familial connection provided an opportunity for Jana and Stephen to reconnect once more.
Realizing their feelings, the reality TV star recalled, "It was like, 'What are we doing? We still enjoy each other. We still really appreciate each other.'"
The Former 'Counting On' Star Embraces New Chapter With Husband
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After waiting patiently for her love story to unfold, Jana is now happily married and excited for what will come. As the 34-year-old reflected on her journey to finding Stephen, she admitted it was not always easy watching 11 of her 18 siblings tie the knot before her.
Still, her faith played a key role in helping her through those moments of uncertainty. "I haven't always understood what the bigger picture is, but I know that God knows what is best for all of us. And so for me, it's getting married later," Jana shared.
Now that she has found her "happily ever after," Jana is eager to start her new chapter with Stephen. The couple is excited to finally live in the same state. She plans to relocate to Nebraska, where Stephen works in irrigation systems, sandblasting, and painting.
The author noted, "It's great. We've been working, he has a little house we bought that we've been fixing up and getting pulled together, and so that's been fun."
Jana Duggar Resurfaced After Break From The Spotlight
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Before opening up about her happily ever after, Jana surprised fans last month by returning to the public eye with a life update after being off the radar since 2022.
The Blast reported that the star took to YouTube to share a glimpse into her world. In the 4-minute video, Jana offered a peek into her daily routine on the family's Arkansas compound.
The clip showcased her involvement in various farm activities, including caring for goats and undertaking a significant construction project.
"It's been a little while since I've shared an update. So I wanted to show you all what we've been up to the past few months," Jana said as she introduced the video.
The 34-year-old revealed that she and her brother Joe purchased many sheep and goats last year, adding a new dimension to their farm life. In the video's final moments, Jana proudly showcased the construction of a sturdy fence to protect the garden from their new flock.
Inside The 2022 Child Endangerment Rumors
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ICYMI, Jana's return to social media comes two years after she faced widespread rumors of an arrest for child endangerment. The speculation swirled in late 2022, but she quickly addressed the claims candidly on her Instagram Story.
"I prefer a more private life, but I know my last name means that everything we do is open to public criticism and interest, especially during this time," Jana began, acknowledging the public scrutiny that often comes with her famous last name.
The TV personality explained that the incident occurred while babysitting several children. One of the kids had wandered outside unsupervised, which prompted a passerby to call the police.
"This resulted in a written citation, as well as a follow-up with child welfare who concluded that it was an accident and the child was unharmed," she shared.
With their new life ahead of them, the couple looks forward to building a home and future filled with love, faith, and the joys of married life.