Jana Duggar, the eldest daughter of the famous 19 Kids and Counting family, has always been known for living a quiet life. Unlike her siblings, who planned their families early, she tied the knot with longtime family friend, Stephen Wissmann, in August 2024 at the age of 34. She not only broke the Duggar family tradition of early marriage, but now, at 35, Jana has announced her first pregnancy, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life. Before the couple embraces parenthood, let’s take a look back at how fate united them for a ‘happily ever after’.
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann’s love story began years ago
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann’s love story began many years ago. Their families were close, and they first met as teenagers when the Wissmanns visited the Duggars’ home. Jana once shared how she recalled playing games at night with him and solving puzzles until the snow melted without really developing any feelings for him. At the same time, Stephen was not really on her radar, but the connection was planted early.
Years later, Jana briefly dated Stephen before they went their separate ways. The reason for their split was not clarified, but they continued to stay in touch on and off over the years. However, fate planned to unite them, and their paths crossed again when Jana’s brother Jeremiah married Stephen’s sister Hannah in 2022. Over time, the friendship deepened, which laid the foundation for something more meaningful.
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann reconnected, never to part ways again
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann again began dating in early 2024. The 19 Years and Counting alum once told People that she was slow at moving towards their relationship, but when she witnessed that he had a good character and came back because he loved her, she knew he was “the one.” Stephen proposed to her on June 15, 2025, and two months later, the couple exchanged vows in a classic ceremony near Prairie Grove, Arkansas. It was a mid-sized wedding attended by nearly 500 guests that included her multiple siblings. They flew to Hawaii at the beginning of January 2025 to mark Jana’s 35th birthday.
The most-awaited announcement from the couple came in August 2025 when they shared that Jana is expecting her first child in January 2026. The announcement came with a heartfelt Instagram post featuring a slideshow of maternity photos. In one image, the couple shared a loving kiss as Jana proudly showed off her baby bump. Another captured a sweet, intimate moment between them. Sharing the photos with her fans, she wrote:
“We are so excited, January 2026 is going to come with a little bundle of joy joining our family! We’re counting down the days and eagerly looking forward to this thrilling new chapter.”
We wish send our good wishes to Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann on this joyful occasion.
Next Read: ’19 Kids And Counting’ Family’s Jana Duggar’s First Pregnancy At 35 Redefines Her Family Tradition