Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar’s Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

As I delve deeper into the captivating world of these remarkable individuals, I find myself utterly amazed by their journey through life. Each one, unique and special in their own right, has a story that is as inspiring as it is intriguing.


Jana Duggar‘s wedding was ever the fairytale.

A week after my elder siblings, Jim Bob Duggar and Michelle Duggar’s daughter, exchanged vows with Stephen Wissmann, I, as your trusted lifestyle guide, am delighted to give you a peek into the beautiful wedding ceremony that took place on Aug. 15.

Jill happily announced on Instagram that her sister, Janet Duggar, tied the knot with Stephen Wissmann last week. She posted a reel from their special day along with well wishes!

In the video, which features Bette Midler’s song “Chapel of Love”, a 33-year-old person recorded various moments from the wedding, including the ceremony programs, family photographs, unique “The Wissmann” cookies, and a memorable dance by Jana and Stephen to Elvis Presley’s hit “Can’t Help Falling In Love”. As they danced, around 500 guests held sparklers.

In the wedding programs, it was noted that Jessa Duggar Seewald served as Jana’s matron of honor, while sisters Jinger Duggar Vuolo, Joy-Anna Duggar Forsyth, Johannah Duggar, Jordyn Duggar, and Abbie Duggar (the wife of John Duggar) were among the bridesmaids.

As Jana, a girl from Arkansas, mentioned before her wedding, I couldn’t believe I was about to get hitched at last. The anticipation had me all tied up!

As a lifestyle expert, I must confess, there’s this dreamy concept that I believe many women share at some point – it’s something magical that I too have nurtured for years. And now, as I stand here, it feels like the stars have finally aligned, making this dream a tantalizing reality. For so long, I thought it would remain just that – a dream. But today, with each passing moment, it’s becoming more and more tangible. Reality is gently nudging its way in, and as I take it all in, I can’t help but marvel at the incredible journey that led me here, to this very moment where I can truly say: This dream of mine has become a breathtaking reality.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’d like to share an interesting tidbit: this celebrity once revealed that she and Stephen, who hails from the talented Wissmann Family gospel group (one of 13 siblings), had a brief fling years ago. Over time, we found ourselves reconnecting here and there before finally reigniting our relationship and getting engaged in June.

Jana remembered their reconciliation as feeling like, “‘Are we doing this? We still care for each other deeply. We still value one another immensely.'” She admitted that she had been hesitant initially, but eventually, it was his consistent behavior, his return to her life, and his unwavering affection that won her over.

She added, “I tend to take some time before I fully trust someone, yet he’s consistently stood by my side, whether we were experiencing highs or lows. Over the years, he’s proven to be a reliable friend without putting undue pressure on me in numerous instances.”

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Now that we’ve tied the knot with Stephen, we’re pondering over our new journey which involves moving to his cherished homeland, Nebraska.

She shared with People that we own a small house which we’ve been renovating and organizing. She added, “It’s been enjoyable.”

For more about the Duggar family, keep reading.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

19 children’s parents, along with the grandparents of more than three dozen kids, originally fell in love as teenage sweethearts in high school.

Michelle mentioned having been “rescued” at the age of 15. One evening, Jim Bob was conducting house visits as part of his Baptist church duties when he was directed to the Ruark family’s residence. A friend had told him that a girl from school who had recently undergone a spiritual transformation and was a cheerleader lived there.

They extended an invitation to Michelle to attend Sunday school at their church, and Jim Bob mentioned he had prayed to God for them to guide each other spiritually – although it seemed their initial encounter wasn’t particularly memorable for Michelle. A year later, she applied for a job at the frozen yogurt store owned by Jim Bob’s parents. In a letter posted on their family blog in 2017 for Jim Bob’s birthday and their 33rd wedding anniversary, Michelle recalled, “You stood behind the counter where I was working at the cash register, introduced yourself, and were quite shy but very kind! I don’t recall much about that conversation, except that you eventually found the courage to ask me if I would attend your junior-senior banquet with you!”

She went to dinner with him at Shiloh Christian, but it wasn’t until they spent hours discussing the Bible at her parents’ house afterwards that she felt their bond deepen. As Michelle puts it, “Our hearts were united from that moment on.” They graduated high school in May 1984 and got married in July, with Michelle being 17 and Jim Bob being 19.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

The couple dedicated themselves to God and each other for the long run.

Jim Bob previously held the position of state legislator, representing Arkansas’s sixth district in the House of Representatives from 1999 until 2002. During his tenure, he served as vice chair of the House Corrections and Criminal Law Subcommittee. In 2002, he attempted to secure a seat in the U.S. Senate but was unsuccessful in the primary. His second attempt, in 2006, aimed at becoming the Republican nominee for Arkansas State Senate District 35, also did not result in victory.

19 Kids and Counting, which debuted as 17 Kids and Counting in 2008, has been a subject of controversy due to its stars, He and Michelle, who are both realtors and have been active in conservative causes. They’ve garnered support as well as criticism for their stance on certain issues. In 2014, Michelle made a robocall urging voters to oppose an anti-discrimination ordinance in Fayetteville, arguing that it could make public facilities unsafe for transgender individuals. This call led to the creation of a Change.org petition asking TLC to cancel their show.

The city council approved the ordinance.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

The eldest child of the Duggars, Josh, made his entrance into the world on March 3, 1988. Just like his family, he also ventured into conservative activism, often advocating for the Family Research Council.

In 2015, records of past police investigations emerged which claimed he had been accused of molesting multiple girls, including his sisters Jessa and Jill, when he was a young adult. In an interview with Fox News in June of that year, Jessa defended her brother, stating that the harsh words people were using against Josh were “exaggerated and false, honestly. I know this because I was one of the victims myself.”

As a lifestyle advisor, I find it heartening to see how resilient families can be in the face of adversity, such as my own family during challenging times. My wife stood by me even after I confessed to infidelity, which I deeply regret and have been working hard to overcome.

Back in April 2021, federal authorities accused Josh of two separate offenses related to child pornography – one for receiving it and another for possessing it. He pleaded not guilty to both charges. In the year 2022, a court found him guilty on both counts and handed down a sentence of 12 and a half years in prison.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Not long after Josh’s birth, Michelle conceived another child, but unfortunately experienced a miscarriage. As they were mourning this loss and seeking divine direction, they discovered that they were expecting twins instead.

She shared that it felt like a special gift twice over, explaining to Love to Know. “God was offering us comfort in difficult times. We’re still discovering new things. It’s quite extraordinary, as I nurse my babies but they are closely spaced. In just another unexpected twist, the Lord chose our circumstances for this unique arrangement.”

John-David and his sister Jana were born on Jan. 12, 1990.

Following a prolonged period of acquaintance, spanning several years, and a swift courtship, John-David and Abbie exchanged vows on November 3, 2018. Their union brought forth daughter Grace Annette Duggar on January 7, 2020, and son Charlie Duggar in September 2022.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

On his 30th birthday in January 2020, John-David’s twin shared a touching message with him: “Ever since we were young children, people have asked us if we possess that ‘twin connection.’ You know, the one where you sense what the other is feeling or understand their thoughts…Well, John, I used to deny it, but now I can truthfully admit that when our sister Gracie was born, I experienced the same joy as you did. So, maybe there really is something to it!”

Jana added, “It’s truly heartwarming to see you and Abbie in your parental roles! You both seem so natural at it! The very traits that make you an exceptional brother will undoubtedly make you a fantastic father.”

Meanwhile, Jana observed as 11 out of her 18 siblings tied the knot before she encountered love with Stephen Wissmann – who happens to be the spouse of Jana’s sister Hannah, linked to the ex-TLC star’s brother Jeremiah – she feels it was all part of God’s design.

In August 2024, just before her wedding, Jana shared with People that she hadn’t always grasped the overall plan, but she trusted that God knew what was best for everyone. For her personally, marriage came later in life. She expressed that our lives would be monotonous if we were all identical; each story unfolds uniquely.

 Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Jill was born back on May 17, 1991. In a tale that mirrors her parents’, Jill crossed paths with Derick for the first time on Christmas 2011. This happened when Derick, who lived roughly 45 minutes away, dropped by the Duggar residence while out singing carols with his church group.

Jim Bob acted as a Cupid, and Jill and Derick found a connection, nurturing their bond through emails and video calls. Later in November, they decided to meet in person when Father and daughter traveled to Nepal to visit Derick. From there, their feelings for each other deepened. In February 2014, Derick requested Jim Bob’s blessing to marry his daughter, which he graciously granted. The wedding took place on June 21, 2014, and the happy couple now has three boys—Israel (born April 6, 2015), Samuel (born July 8, 2017), and Frederick (born July 7, 2022).

In April 2024, Jill disclosed that they experienced a miscarriage when expecting their first daughter with Derick.

The pair featured prominently on the TV shows titled “19 Kids and Counting” and later “Counting On“. However, Derick was dismissed from the show in 2017 following controversial comments he made about another TLC reality star, Jazzy Jennings, which many people perceived as homophobic.

In the Amazon Prime Video documentary titled “Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets“, which debuted in June 2023, Jill and Derick delved into the debated religious views and family issues that surround Jill’s kinship.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Jim Bob and Michelle’s fifth child was born Nov. 4, 1992.

Jessa and Ben got acquainted through church in 2013, where he started pursuing her in an old-fashioned manner of courtship, which many viewers found surprising. Before their engagement, they were discreet about their relationships. To clarify this aspect to People magazine, Jim Bob said, “Courting involves getting to know each other in a group setting, with both families spending time together and the couple establishing shared goals to decide if they are suitable for marriage. Dating often consists of two people spending private time together, which can sometimes lead to a more intimate relationship.”

In August 2014, Ben formally asked for Jessa’s hand in marriage and proposed. They exchanged their first touch following the proposal. Their wedding took place on November 1, 2014. While pregnant with their first child, Jessa and Jessa were central figures in the show 19 Kids and Counting, which was later canceled by TLC. To educate viewers further about sexual abuse, they aired a special called “19 Kids and Counting: On the Record,” featuring Jill and Jessa. That same winter, they began starring in their own show, Jill and Jessa: Counting On, which eventually expanded to include other Duggar siblings, becoming known as simply Counting On.

During November 5, 2015, Jessa and Ben had their first son named Spurgeon; followed by Henry on February 6, 2017, Ivy Jane on May 28, 2019, and Fern in July 2021. Sadly, Jessa experienced a miscarriage during the 2022 holiday season. However, she was blessed with her fifth child, George, in December 2023.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

The sixth Duggar child was born Dec. 21, 1993.

Jinger and Jeremy first crossed paths while serving in ministry work in Laredo, Texas, and they began dating in 2016. They tied the knot on November 5, 2016, which was also their nephew Spurgeon’s birthday (quite a coincidence when you’re part of such a large family!). Almost immediately after their wedding, there were whispers about them expecting a baby.

In a year’s time, it appears that we will have found our footing, continuing our ministry right here in Laredo. We’ll simply be focused on serving the Lord as best we can. This is what Jinger shared on a June 2017 episode of Counting On.

On July 19, 2018, their daughter Felicity was born. It was made known in May of that year that Jinger was pregnant once more, and she had experienced a miscarriage the previous autumn. In November 2020, they welcomed their new daughter named Evangeline Jo into their family.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

7 was born on January 20, 1995. Leveraging the charming atmosphere, Joseph popped the question to Kendra (whom he had met through church) during his sister Joy-Anna’s wedding in May 2017, having only been together for a few months prior to that.

Joseph confessed to People magazine that he was certainly anxious leading up to it, but he didn’t fear her refusal because she had already expressed, “‘I’m merely waiting for you!'” He shared this after proposing. Kendra added, “I’m overjoyed and stunned. There are so many things I want to express, but all I can say is stunned.”

They have had three children since then: Garrett, who was born in June 2018, Addison, born in November 2019, Brooklyn, who joined the family in February 2019, and Justus, their most recent addition, born in May 2023.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Eighth in line, Josiah was born on Aug. 28, 1996.

A few months following the public revelation of their relationship, the pair declared their engagement in March 2018. He explained in a statement that the location where he proposed to Lauren was the very same spot where her parents had become engaged. This property holds significant family history, making it a particularly meaningful place for Lauren.

Michelle, who will be Lauren’s mother-in-law in the future, expressed her affection for Lauren in a video uploaded on their family blog, saying, “Lauren is such a cherished girl and we truly love her.” Jessa and Ben also extended their congratulations, along with chocolate shaped like X’s and O’s. Michelle hinted at a sweet reward if they visited her, saying, “I think you two might want to save your first kiss for your wedding day, but if you come over here, we’ll give you…” She displayed the enticing treat as an encouragement.

In the summer of 2015, a relationship with Marjorie Jackson came to an end and they parted ways. As Josiah recounted to People magazine in March 2016, “We had some wonderful moments together. We were simply attempting to follow God’s guidance on everything. At that time, she didn’t believe it was the appropriate moment, so we took a break for a while.”

On June 30, 2018, they officially got married, describing their special day to People as “completely perfect.” Their first child, Bella Milagro, was born on Nov. 8, 2019, a name that means “miracle baby,” following the couple’s disclosure of Lauren’s miscarriage in October 2018. They then welcomed daughter Daisy in 2022 and son Ezra in May 2023.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

The ninth Duggar sibling was born Oct. 28, 1997.

She knew Austin for 15 years as a friend before he started courting her—after which they didn’t waste any time. He proposed in February 2017 and they married on May 26, 2017, at Cross Church in Rogers, Ark. (the wedding where Joseph proposed to Kendra!). They welcomed son Gideon Martin Forsyth on Feb. 23, 2018.

In 2019, Joy-Anna suffered a pregnancy loss with a baby girl at 20 weeks along.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

On Aug. 21, 2020, the couple welcomed daughter Evelyn Mae Forsyth.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

The couple’s third child, son Gunner James Forsyth, was born on May 17, 2023.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Jim Bob and Michelle’s second set of twins were born on Dec. 30, 1998.

In February 2017, it was announced that Jed was interning at his father’s former workplace, the Arkansas State Capitol, working for the House of Representatives. At just 21 years old, he is now running for State Representative in District 89, with a focus on upholding Springdale’s conservative values. He married Katey Nakatsu after a year of courtship in April 2021. They have since welcomed a son, Truett, born in May 2022, and a daughter, Nora Kate, born in June 2023.

Jeremiah, who holds a flight instructor certificate, is wedded to Hannah Wissmann, and they are proud parents of their daughter Brynley (born in December 2022) and Brielle (born in February 2024).

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Duggar child No. 12 was born on April 21, 2000.

In January 2017, as reported by the Daily Mail, Jim Bob assisted Jase in purchasing a $33,000 fixer-upper located in Prairie Grove, Arkansas, approximately 30 minutes from the Duggar family home. Consequently, he launched his own construction company. Yet, amidst these endeavors, he found time to lend a hand with Jed’s campaign.

He went Instagram official with girlfriend Maddie Grace Jones in July 2024.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Charmed No. 13, James arrived on July 7, 2001.

 Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

On his 19th birthday in the year 2019, his mother penned down, “He’s more like a ‘fun uncle’ to everyone around here, and all the younger lads admire him and aspire to be just as remarkable as him! James possesses an extraordinary ability to execute almost anything he dreams up. From a young age, we would discover James tinkering with various household appliances. He has always been someone who disassembles things, understands their workings, reassembles them, and occasionally adds unique twists!”

I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing James’ determination and dedication this year as he worked tirelessly to obtain his CDL. Not only has he mastered driving all those colossal trucks and heavy machinery, but he’s become an expert in his field! It’s truly inspiring to see his growth, and I eagerly anticipate the amazing things that lie ahead for him in the future. Who knows what God has planned for him, but whatever it is, I have no doubt it will be extraordinary!

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

No. 14 arrived on Nov. 15, 2002.

And from the department of growing up so fast…

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

In September 2020, Justin made their relationship with Claire known to the public. They became engaged in November of the same year, and on February 26, 2021, they officially tied the knot.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Here with his big sister Jill, Jim Bob and Michelle’s 15th child was born May 23, 2004.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

On my 16th birthday, Mom Michelle appreciated my humor and mentioned how eager I was to finally acquire my driver’s license.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Duggar baby No. 16 was born Oct. 11, 2005.

In a post on Johannah’s 15th birthday in 2020, Michelle expressed that this girl is full of joy and sociable, always eager to meet new people. She also mentioned that her younger sisters idolize her and consider her as extraordinary as the moon, and Michelle felt incredibly blessed to be her mother.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

On August 2, 2007, Number 17 made its appearance. When the show was simply titled “17 Kids and Counting,” Jenni was the youngest member of the clan.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Now, OMG, she’s a teenager.

Michelle wrote when her niece turned 13, “Jennifer is trustworthy, devoted… and full of fun!” This means that Jennifer can be relied upon, is devoted, and enjoys having a good time. She’s adored by the younger family members who often cling to her because they don’t want her to put them down. Additionally, Jennifer has a deep affection for animals and diligently cares for her pets daily! Not too long ago, she even helped care for a litter of 7 baby bunnies!

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Here on the right, the penultimate Duggar child was born Dec. 18, 2008.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

2019 saw Jordyn-Grace being described by her mother as an outgoing girl who can easily connect with anyone, and her laughter often brings joy to our days.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

19 Luckily, Meredith’s aunt was born on December 10, 2009, three months early and tipping the scales at just 1 pound, 6 ounces. Despite this, Josie endured a six-month stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit but is thriving wonderfully now.

Jill Duggar Gives Look at Jana Duggar's Wedding to Stephen Wissman

Read More

2024-08-22 00:51