Jesse will always remember the day he met Jessica. It was at the Community Living Wallaceburg (CLW) 2018 Christmas Party, where employees and people supported by the Agency come together to celebrate the Holidays. Classic Holiday jingles were playing through the speaker, people were dancing on the dancefloor, and amongst the crowd was Jessica, who, unbeknownst to her, was about to meet the love of her life. Throughout the night Jesse and Jessica bonded over their shared love of music and art. Wanting to get to know Jessica a little more, Jesse asked her out on a coffee date.
“After that there were just more and more dates… we went to lots of tribute concerts.” Says Jesse.
Some of their most memorable dates were a tribute Queen Concert, Classic Rock show, and the Masters of Illusions in Chatham. Fast forward to one year later at the 2019 CLW Christmas party, Jesse got down on one knee in front of the 400 attendees and asked Jessica for her hand in marriage.
When Jesse was asked what he loves the most about Jessica, he smiled and said, “Jessica’s pretty cool and pretty down to earth. She keeps me in line – we keep each other in line and are always helping each other out.”
Jesse and Jessica celebrated their love at the wedding of their dreams on February 15, 2020, just one day after Valentine’s Day. Jessica’s elegant beaded dress, flower crown, and swooping veil had Jesse’s chest puffed with pride as she walked down the aisle. Later that day, their true personalities came out as they changed into capes and crowns fit for a King and Queen.
Jesse and Jessica at the alter during their wedding ceremony on February 15, 2020.
Since the wedding, Jesse and Jessica have moved into a home of their own where they receive community supports through CLW. It has been Jessica’s life long dream to move into a house of her own and she has enjoyed the married lifestyle.
“Jesse is loveable and caring. He helps out with things I need done like cooking and cleaning – even making the bed!” Says Jessica.
For Valentines Day this year, Jesse said they’re going to do their favourite things together: “go for walks, listen to music, and have a nice dinner… I made Jessica a card and then we’re celebrating our wedding anniversary the next day!”
Jesse and Jessica never let their disabilities define them. They believe in each other, and help one another overcome barriers and achieve their dreams. With the support of CLW, they are excited for the future. They are in the process of establishing an Art Gallery business with Employment Services called, Jesse and Jessica’s Art Gallery, where they hope to sell their paintings and drawings and turn their passion for art into a sustainable career