Sophia Michaels
Jana Duggar had been part of her family’s compound in Arkansas for 16 years as an adult before marrying Stephen Wissmann on August 15. The wedding marked her departure from her family’s home, ending the era of her providing free childcare for her siblings.
Jana and Stephen had previously “dated” but parted ways. In the Duggar family’s mindset, this failed courtship would have been considered unconventional, as her parents, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, do not support traditional dating. The family’s strict rules also include restrictions on physical intimacy before marriage. Interestingly, Jana’s brother, Jeremiah Duggar, is married to Stephen’s sister, Hannah Wissmann, resulting in their children being double first cousins with any children Jana and Stephen may have.
Prior to Jana’s wedding, her younger sisters Jill, Jessa, Jinger, and Joy-Anna had gotten married in church ceremonies. In contrast, Jana’s wedding took place at a luxury venue, The Grand at Willow Springs. A notable absence from Jana’s wedding party was her sister Jill. Additionally, Jana’s dress choice stood out as a surprising element of her special day.
A gown fit for the Cinderella of the family
Jana’s wedding gown showcased an off-the-shoulder neckline, deviating from the Duggar family’s modesty standards. Michelle Duggar, in a 2012 TLC blog post, emphasized the family’s belief in covering up to maintain modesty. The dress was described by Jana as elegant and reminiscent of a princess, drawing comparisons to Disney’s Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty.
Despite her family’s conservative views on women’s roles, Jana revealed she has been pursuing nursing school since 2023. She and Stephen will be starting their married life in Nebraska, distancing themselves from the Duggar family dynamics. For Jana, this move marks a step towards her own fairytale ending within the controversial Duggar clan.
