I spent longer than I care to admit looking for the man who would one day become my husband. The waiting was long and admittedly, more complicated than it needed to be. The arrival surprisingly simple-like something Iโd misplaced and suddenly found.
The date was Saturday October 26, 2019. I had spend the evening before preparing for a scone and jam making class at The Bakehouse Nola (what I affectionately called my New Orleans house on the weekends – Iโd open the doors to ticketed strangers for baking classes and inevitable friendship).
The class went off without much fuss, the kind of quiet success Iโd come to expect from The Bakehouse. Afternoon sunlight slanted through the side windows, catching my cat Tron in his usual sunspot vigil. Dough-encrusted bowls stacked precariously by the sink, a small mountain I knew Iโd eventually have to conquer. My friend Abby lingered after the other guests had gone, her idea of help being less about scrubbing and more about keeping me company through the motions.
She asked me what I was doing that evening-the highly anticipated Saturday before Halloween in New Orleans. Now, New Orleans is the easiest city to fall into both plans and trouble. You can even plan your trouble if youโre meeting friends on say, Bourbon Street past 10pm. I had no plans. I wasnโt even sure I wanted any as I glanced over at my very comfortable couch, at the laptop resting on it, and thought of the Sunday post that needed doing.
Iโm not even sure I answered Abbyโs question before she invited me to a Halloween party she and her husband were going to later that evening. She said it was going to be fun and I was inclined to believe her. Besides, what stories was I going to have come Monday, staying at home on the Saturday before Halloween?
Now, what does one wear to a Halloween party with no costume and only a few hoursโ notice? My answer was unorthodox but decisive: no pants. Which is to say, I arrived dressed as Tom Cruise in Risky Business, a character I only vaguely remembered, but felt confident enough to imitate in menโs briefs, tube socks, and knockoff Ray-Bans. It was a calculated kind of chaos, the sort of choice you make when youโre hoping to make just a little bit of trouble or a good story out of the weekend.
My friend Abby doesnโt believe in being fashionably late, so we were among the first to arrive at the party. As the room filled, it became painfully clear that Abby and her husband were the only two people I knew. I found myself lingering near the chicken nuggets, questioning my life choicesโnamely, leaving the house in no pants to mingle with strangers. I was half-listening to Abbyโs side conversation, offering the occasional polite โmmhmm,โ when I looked up and saw him.
Will was wearing jeans and boots, a wool shawl that was probably a blanket wrapped around his shoulder and, not a cowboy hat but a very stylish western hat all the same. Just the right amount of stubble and a jawline exactly like you’d imagine the silhouette of a cowboy at sunset. He was chatting with two gentlemen who, if memory serves, were much shorter than him, lending to this legendary quality I had build in my mind for him, instantly.
It wasnโt love at first sight. It was something quieter, more certainโa kind of recognition. Not the heart-stopping fireworks Iโd given up on, but a steady pulse, a voice in my chest saying, There he is. Thereโs the man youโve been looking for. Just like that.
Without taking my eyes off him, I nudged Abby and asked, โWho is that?โ She studied him for a moment and said, โOh, we work together. I havenโt seen him in years.โ
I looked her dead in the eye and said, โI have to meet him.โ
She understood the assignment and called her husband, who took the assignment of settling the two of us in a conversation very seriously.
An hour later, Will and I were sitting on an ottoman chatting. A few days later we were making dinner plans. A few weeks later he rode down my street on his motorcycle to pick me up for our first ride together.ย Incidentally, he was so handsome I also had to pick my jaw up off the floor. A few months later he moved from New Orleans to Houston. A few years later I moved to Texas, too.
For the past five years, Iโve lived in the steady orbit of a love that feels like homeโunshakable, true, and quietly extraordinary. Itโs the kind of love you donโt so much find as recognize when it stands before you, wearing jeans, boots, and a western hat at a Halloween party.
A few years into our relationship, I decided it was time to learn how to ride a motorcycle myself. After countless rides spent looking over Willโs shoulder, I thought, how hard could it be? The answer revealed itself over the next six months as I dropped Willโs bike in empty school parking lots, snapping clutch levers, bruising my pride, and criedโthere was a lot of crying. Learning, it turns out, is never not humbling.
Will was (let’s be honest, is) always there to pull me out from under the bike when I’ve tipped it over, offering me the quiet reassurance of his patience. He didnโt wince at the scratches I left on the frame (at least not in front of me) or the broken levers I handed him sheepishly. Instead, he mapped our rides, coached me through merging onto the interstate, and repeated the same gentle refrain: โRide your ride.โ When Iโm following behind him, I know heโs clearing the way for both of us. If he changes lanes, I trust itโs safe to followโthough, of course, I still look myself. Iโm reckless, not insane.
About a year into riding, we went out with one of Willโs more experienced motorcycle friends. Riding with the big dogs is not for the faint of heart. This man darted into intersections and across freeways like we were in a video game. Not once did he check his mirrors to see if I was keeping up. Somewhere on the freeway, trapped in the chaos of it all, I quietly unraveled inside my full-face helmet. At the first gas station, I pulled off the road, parked, and left my helmet onโpartly for privacy and partly to contain my tears.
Will pulled up beside me, puzzled. โWhatโs wrong?โ
Through muffled sobs, I blurted, โI canโt ride behind Paul! He doesnโt love me!โ
Will laughed, a deep, easy sound that cut through my frustration like sunlight. I managed a watery smile, got myself together, and followed Will the rest of the way.ย Turns out, you can ride with people who don’t love you but it surely doesn’t feel the same.
Months ago, Will and I decided to surprise our family with a wedding tucked into our Thanksgiving celebration. Neither of us wanted the spectacle of a year-long planning process, and it seemed a shame to waste a moment when so many of our loved ones would already be gathered at the big house in Bellville. In truth, most of the people who accepted our Thanksgiving invitations didnโt realize they were also RSVPing to our wedding.
I fussed more over the menu more than my dress. We served turkey smoked by our neighbor, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, creamed spinachโfamiliar dishes for a family holiday, each one perfected with care. I wore a simple dress from Reformation, shoes from Everlane. Will, ever himself, wore a fresh Wrangler shirt.
My dad officiated the ceremony. Willโs mom played piano as I walked down the aisle. His dad gave a heartfelt reading. My momโwho knew exactly what to do before I even thought to askโseemed to be everywhere at once, handling the kind of details only mothers can see. She and I wore matching pins from Aunt Mary, a quiet symbol of connection. My sister transformed into an event coordinator overnight, directing everyone with ease (or was that an iron fist?). My uncles cleaned a part of the house I hadn’t even considered, while my aunts ironed, washed, organized, and generally turned chaos into calm. The fact that we pulled this off was honestly, incredible!
Our friends Trevor and Sara drove in from New Orleans to take pictures, though I donโt think they realized theyโd be working quite so hard when they agreed to spend Thanksgiving in Texas. Our rings were from Brilliance in Diamonds in New Orleans. My friend Suzonne made me the most stunning bouquet of paper magnolia flowers that I’ll treasure forever. Somehow, that added effort made the memories sweeterโthe work blending seamlessly into joy.
The stuffing was served hot and that the Chocolate Stout Raspberry Cake Iโd made as our wedding cake stayed safe in a neighborโs fridge. We served lunch on the most stunning William Morris plates and vintage turkey plates borrow from Will’s aunt-tiny details that felt quietly extravagant, just like the day itself. What mattered most were the words Will and I said to each other, surrounded by the people who have loved us longest.
For those of you who have followed along since my Los Angeles daysโthrough the burnt scones, the too-salty cookies, the moves, and the midnight epiphaniesโthank you for being here. Itโs strange and wonderful to think how much life has shifted since I first shared a recipe on this blog, yet the constant has always been connection: to food, to family, and to you. Marrying Will on Thanksgiving, surrounded by the people we love most, felt like the perfect way to celebrate love in its truest form: simple, shared, and deeply rooted. Life doesnโt always go as planned, but thatโs where the magic finds us. Wherever you are, whatever youโre celebrating, Iโm so grateful we get to share these moments together.
151 Responses
Tears, from a Saturday morning reader. What a beautiful story to kick-off my weekend.
Yes, Iโve been following you since the Los Angeles days and Iโm truly so happy for you!
I’ve followed your blog since about 2009 when I was 17. I’m about to be 33 and your blog and recipes have seen me through many many hard days (weeks, and months). It’s so, so wonderful to get to see your life grow even bigger. So so happy for you and a belated congratulations ??
So many congratulations! And such beautiful, poetic writing. You are gifted with words and in cooking/baking!
This made me smile so big and got me all teary eyed! May this kind of love find me!!
Congratulations, Joy and Will! I have been following since the beginning. Your recipes have become the thread that brings my family together. You deserve all the best.
Congratulations! I’ve been following you for many years and it’s so nice to see you so happy! I’m happy for you and wish you and Will lifelong happiness :)
Sat here in London, I have been following you since the LA days and loving seeing the changes that have come your way. I always remember your letters to your future husband along with all the amazing recipes. I am so happy to hear your wonderful news and wish you and Will all the joy in the world! X
In a food blog world beset by AI fakery & outright theft; algorithm devastation; searchers who despise our sites because Google demands wordiness … thank you, Joy, for reminding me how much I still love food blogs, dating way way back a full 20 years now. May your love inspire and enthrall you and all who love Joy the Baker for all the decades to come …
Congrats!
I have been following sooo long (one of my favorite podcasts โ I mean come on!!) and Iโm so happy for you ?
Iโve always loved your writing but this was next level. Simply gorgeous and brought tears to my eyes throughout. Iโm so happy for you that youโve found your steady, ever present love and Iโm wishing you both a lifetime of happiness!!? (And also maybe you writing a book book one of these days??)
Congratulations Joy and Will. I love your love story.
I too got teary eyed reading this along with so many others!!! Iโve followed since at least 2010 but Iโm sure it was earlier than thatโฆ I canโt even remember how far back!! Youโve felt like a friend from afar all these yearsโฆ Iโm so happy for you, Joy!! ???
“Life doesnโt always go as planned, but thatโs where the magic finds us.” — pinning this to my wall. I got teary-eyed reading your story. It’s the most miraculous thing when we find the people we love and they find us. Congratulations!
Congratulations again on the wedding and successful Thanksgiving gathering!
Been a pleasure and joy to see the progress of your blog. I’ve learned many cooking tips, found favorite recipes and bookmarked many “Let It Be Sunday: recommended lists. Still one of the best OG blogs I read.
Thank you for sharing your story. You bake, you write, what more could Will ask for? Congratulations!!! I am so excited for you and may you have years of happiness, love, and adventure together.
Joy, I’m so, so happy for you. Like many, I have followed since the L.A. days. You bring to this most important journey the same quiet courage and hope you bring to every life moment you have shared. You have become, without my realizing it, a personal hero. May you carry on in your truth all your days.
Congratulations, Joy and Will. So lovely to read the expanded story; thank you for sharing it with us. I don’t even remember when you and I first met – that’s how long ago – but I’ve been rooting for you always!
Danny and I were driving in the car at night when I saw your surprise! we got married post on Insta. I screamed so loud and poor Danny nearly drove off the road. I scared him half to death with the ‘girl friend gasp’ then I was so emotional I could barely let him know what happened. ahah :)
All the joy for the year(s) ahead. xox Aimee
You have such a talent for storytelling! The way you use words to convey images and feelingsโฆ have you ever considered to write fiction?
Anyway, this was beautiful. I have laughed and cried with you through the years, and I am so happy for you. Congrats!!!!
So happy for you. What a beautiful wedding.
Just the absolute best post ever! Congratulations!
What a love story! Have always loved your words, for more than a decade for sure. Huge congratulations and may all your days be as happy, xo
Congratulations! Iโve been following you for years and this makes me so happy! Thanks for sharing your Joy, literally and figuratively as we navigate some โinteresting timesโ.
So beautiful! And marrying an Aggie as well! Whoop!!!
The best story to read as we approach the year’s end and the start to a year that seems a little scary. I’ve been writing about hope, and how we all need it in 2025. You have given me a little more hope. It surely comes in the form of love and commitment. Fresh starts together, reliable loved ones, taking the daring step to move on together.
I wish you the very best marriage and life together in the years to come.
Congrats!! Gives hope to us all!! (Even if weโre 70โฆ??)
What a lovely story . Thank you for sharing??
This is beautiful. Truly.
I am so happy for you, even though we are strangers. Isnโt it lovely that we can feel like that from written words!
Congratulations to you and Will, and best wishes for a lifetime of happiness and love and sweet companionship.
oh my gosh joy. iโve followed you since the LA days, back when i was a freshman or sophomore in high school. now im 30 (what the fuck?) and still here. this made me sob. so happy you found a guy who wants you to ride your ride <3
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story. Congratulations to you and Will! Cheers to a life together filled with love, laughter & wonderful memories!
Isnโt the flash of recognition wonderful? Iโm so glad you found each other!
Love love love! You were the first blogger I ever followed! You were worth the wait for Will!!!
I’ve followed since the LA days, when I had my own LA Blogspot fashion blog. I’m SO happy for you. Your writing & love story made me tear up in the best way.
As ever, Joy, your writing evokes the deepest emotions from me. Iโve only been around your corner of the internet for 10 years and have loved baking and virtual bakeaway-ing with you.
So happy for you and Will and the way youโve intentionally woven your lives together.
Sending love love love!
Love! Love! Love!
Iโve been here since your California days and now Iโm crying at your wedding story!
What a lovely, heartfelt piece this is! You and Will are lucky to have each other and I wish you nothing but happiness for the future!
Long time follower โ this post is so beautifully written and everything about it is so you. So happy to read about your happiness โ itโs contagious! Wishing you and Will many many decades of joy and laughter!
But when did you make him your Marry Me Chicken dinner? ? I love that recipe so much and as someone still looking for the person to make it for, I loved reading this! So happy for you both!
Your story was a gift of joy, Joy! Congratulations to you and your motorcycle-riding cowboy. How ever could you top the festivities at Christmas??? ?????
Omg This is the very first time I read one of your post I just stumbled across your account on Instagram and I am more than moved by your story. I cried my whole soul reading it. Congratulations and God bless your marriage.
Long time reader and admirer! I teared up as I read your story and thought about the circuitous journey to love my life took during this same timeโfrom way back in 2012โbaking your recipes all along the way. Thanks for sharing your love story, weโre rooting for you!
What a beautiful, real, love story punctuated by a beautiful day with the ones who love you most! ??!
Iโve been following for so very long Joy and am now tearing up in my kitchen – congratulations on finding the love you deserve and celebrating it in the way thatโs truest to you.
So happy for you both, Joy, Iโm not sure how I stumbled upon your blog years and years ago but Iโm so glad I did. The cookies, the meals and the best blueberry muffins. Ever. Best wishes to you and Will for years and years of happiness.
Joy, I’m so happy for you. Been following since your little apt in venice , ca
Made so many of your recipes, bought the cookbooks and magazines . Read your sunday posts. Wishing you and Will all the happiness your heart can hold. Congratulations!!
I feel.like I have watch you grow, fearlessly, vulnerably into, no ” as” a fierce woman. You have helped me grow, even though I am many years your senior. You have given me courage in the kitchen and in life. Your vulnerability and openness have taught me to forgive myself and forge on. Even more than my yoga retreats, counseling and empower mental sems. I ve hares your happiness at finding a friend and lover, now husband, who supports your passions, allows for your vulnerability, and encourages your fearlessness. Best of luck in this new phase.
Thank you for sharing your precious day with the readers! The first photo of you and your husband could (should!) be on the cover of a magazine! Mrs. Joy, you are as lovely as a magnolia in full bloom!
Being from Louisiana I can relate to so many of your inspirational stories and recipes. Thank you for the time and energy you devote to your writings.
I live in Houston now, so if you ever need a place to host a cooking event, let me know!
Have a blessed and JOYful new year!
I love a good wedding story and yours didn’t disappoint, congratulations! My husband and I had a similar wedding, in a botanical park {decorated for Christmas} just immediate family. We had dinner at a restaurant on the water and dessert bar at my sister’s house. We gave his family members one of my family’s favorite recipes and visa versa. It was perfect. 18 years later and it’s all been far from perfect but that’s life :).
Congratulations and best wishes!! Been following since that PB & Bacon ? cookie recipe!! Love watching your journey unfold. Sending you many blessings from Canada ??
Thank you for sharing your beautiful love story with all of us who have enjoyed hearing from you week after week! I think we all feel a part of the Wilson family.
I have been re-reading this post for the last few days because it says so much about loveโromantic love and love of family. The very best to you and Will. I was rooting for you both since you first mentioned his name ?
Congrats! This was so lovely to read! I used to talk so much about you (and make so much from your blog) in the early 2010s that my mom thought Joy was one of my friends she had just never met. When we got together for Christmas this year, I shared the story of your wedding and again she was so happy to hear about “my friend” Joy thriving in love and life.
Such a lovely and special story…start to finish.
As a long time follower/fan, I could not be more happy for you as you start this new season of your life. I look forward to whatever comes next in your life and on the site.
Best wihes to both you and Will.
Awww- I love this! I’ve been following you since very early days. You, Deb, Molly, and Luisa were my early cooking companions as I found my own way in the kitchen and I make your recipes and Deb’s constantly. Thank you! I have always felt an affinity for you as my own life has run on a similar track- we are around the same age, both very focused on our creative and unique career paths, no kids, 1 cat, had a number of long term partners but didn’t meet our forever partners until we were close to 40. I met my guy when I was 39 and we just bought a house together this summer after 6 years together. It was always really affirming to see another amazing women who was following a similar path. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself along with your recpies!
Wishing you all the JOY and LOVE! Thank you for sharing your story!
Long time follower here. I was SO thrilled when I read the post that you’d gotten married!
I was in San Antonio, with my guy. We were waiting for a play to start and I was scrolling on my phone. I saw your post and instantly teared up. He immediately asked “what’s wrong?” I said, Joy the Baker got married!
Thank you for sharing the details of your amazing day. What a wonderful surprise for all your loved ones!
Wishing you and Will all life’s best. May those wedding day smiles continue for years to come!
Iโm so incredibly happy for you and Will! Itโs been a joy following along for over a decade, and as Iโve always said: you invented sharing recipes on the internet. Ok maybe you didnโt but you were the first cool girl to do it. We all love you so much!
Thank you for sharing your love story. Wishing you many years of happiness! And Iโm grateful to call you a friend! XOXO
Thank you for sharing your love story Joy! I’ve been following for a long time and I’ve loved seeing glimpses of Will. Very, very happy for you and your description of love felt so… correct. Wonderful words as always!
Congratulations for finding love and marriage. Blessings upon you as you go through life loving and taking care of each other. Your husband, Will is ruggedly handsome and his nose shape is similar to your dad’s too, and probably other things. I always loved how you shared your parents with us.
Iโm so happy for you! What a beautiful story, and I canโt wait to continue following along in this next chapter!
Congratulations to you and Will! I’m so very happy for you, Joy. I’ve been folllowing you since LA and you’ve always been one of my favorite reads (and listens–I loved your podcast back in the day). And one of your recipes is an absolute favorite of mine that I make all the time (vegan jalepeno carrot soup–YUM!).
Wishing you more and more happiness as the years go on.
Iโve followed you since your LA days! Baking your recipes gave me great comfort when I moved to LA. Iโm overjoyed for you and will eternally be grateful for your molasses chocolate chip cookie and single lady pancake recipes.
Many congratulations, Joy and thank you for sharing your story! I remember when you had your podcast back in the day and Iโm so glad to hear that youโve found your person all these years later. Itโs a good reminder of the beauty of building your own life and being patient until you find your person. Many happy returns to you and Will!
Joy, I’ve been reading, cooking, and following along for a long long time and am happy for your marriage. Congratulations and enjoy this next ride. Be well and thrive…
Such a beautiful story. Congratulations and love. We were all rooting for you!
?, what a Beautiful LOVE story all around. So happy for you both and wish you a lifetime of joy and happiness.
?, what a Beautiful LOVE story all around. So happy for you both and wish you a lifetime of joy and happiness.
Thank you for sharing this lovely & personal story. Congratulations! I have been following you since your move from California to New Orleans, and I was hoping when you moved to Texas that this deep happiness was there for you. I hope to take a class in the not so distant future, just a few hours drive away – and meet you in real life. Happy New Year in your new home with your new husband!
Iโve been following you since LA too, made a similar feeling like adventure move from CA to Chicago, and went through many single lady cake days along with you. I met my husband 9 years ago and was so thrilled at the news of your wedding! May God bless you and give you everything you dream up together.
Oh what a beautiful bride you are!!! Iโm insanely happy for you and have here cheering you on since your California days – hope to visit you at the Belleville Bakehouse someday!!
Thank you for sharing your story with us! I read somewhere that couples who stay together usually have a special story of when they first met! My husband and I planned a similar wedding for ourselves on Valentine’s Day many years ago with a reception in our home. Best wishes for a lifetime of happiness!
Oh what a lovely bride you are and I adore the simplicity of it all…followed you for years and I cried reading thos to my hubby of 39 years…she’s married I yelled the day I read it like your our daughter..lol
I love that you took up riding a cycle as well ..onward …side by side …into the sunset ..
Love is all you need
So thrilled for you! I’ve been following along since 2010! Love that you found your person… Everything works out the way it should!
I am just so utterly happy for you. Iโve been following along since the early days, and you were certainly a big part of the reason I decided to start my own blog. I have always loved the way you tired good and family and community together, and this is surely the best representation of that! Wishing for many many years of joy and Joy and Will ahead of you.
May you walk hand in hand through your life together with love to bolster you through life’s travails and a mutual understanding of what you each need to make the other the best they can be. Happiness and joy in your new life together!
Congratulations and best wishes, from someone around since you were in LA and I was baking in a dorm kitchen.
Thank you for sharing your love story.
I found the one for me 40 years ago.
I might have started following you in California. Yours is the only blog I follow. Your links to articles always made me think and learn.
Thank you for sharing and congratulations again to you and Will!
Lynn Glace
A quote by the wonderful Mary Oliver
โIf you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy, donโt hesitate. Give in to it. There are plenty of lives and whole towns destroyed or about to be. We are not wise, and not very often kind. And much can never be redeemed. Still life has some possibility left. Perhaps this is its way of fighting back, that sometimes something happened better than all the riches or power in the world. It could be anything, but very likely you notice it in the instant when love begins. Anyway, thatโs often the case. Anyway, whatever it is, donโt be afraid of its plenty. Joy is not made to be a crumb.โ(Don’t Hesitate)
Congratulations Joy! This post was so beautiful and we are all so happy for you. I have been here since the LA days and you have been a part of our family for many years.
Thank you so much for sharing this story with us, Joy. You donโt know me, but I really have been with you since the beginning, and while I would never comment and ask for more details about your personal life, I do of course always want to know. I feel like I grew up with you and am therefore weirdly invested in your own growth and happiness. Congratulations on not only finding your partner, but having the wisdom and the guts to leap into love and to commit to one another. Iโm so happy for you.
I loved reading this! Iโm happy that the both of you found each other! ??
Aww, manโฆwhat a story, and one befitting a girl who has created a completely original life??.
Congratulations. Wishing you and will much joy and many, many years of happiness together.
A special story for a special lady. I have followed you since your CA days. Your name was so appropriately gifted to you by your mom and dad. You bring joy to the kitchen, to your relationships and to your life and work. Now you have a life mate to share even more joy and memories. Blessings and wishes to you and Will ??
Congratulations, Iโm so happy for you!! I love your origin storyโฆ Iโd read that romance novel ;) Geres to you getting to LIVE it!!
Oh my gosh, such a beautiful love story. I remember that look and feeling when you see The One. Next year will be 35 years.
I’m not crying, well, yes i am! Such beautiful words. I am so happy for you both and am excited for the next chapter! I’ll be right here, reading along and trying your recipes and staying smitten with your Dad.??????
I have also been following you for years, sometimes closely and sometimes sporadically. You are an amazing woman. You make everything seem effortless, but it isn’t. Your vision and ability to make it happen is incredible. You waited for the right person and the same thoughtfulness and dedication to detail you put into everything will help your marriage succeed. Congratulations to you and Will. You have an amazing life ahead of you.
What a glorious love story! I’ve followed you during your Cali and NOLA days and it’s wonderful to see that someone you know (via FB and your newsletters) found her person in life.
Love and light to you both.
SO HAPPY FOR YOU BOTH! :) What a beautiful love story! Thanks for sharing it and so fun to see the pictures!! Another follower since your LA days and still love reading your blog and using your recipes! Continue to bring us along in your new journeys and life in TX!!! Love your dog stories too!
Thanks for sharing your gorgeous story, Joy. It makes life and love the real stuff of Life! Canโt imagine you in your Tom C get up, tho, but Iโm fairly sure that anyone bold enough to wear that to a party will arrest the gaze of every hunky cowboy in the room! Wish you both years of Love, above all.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful love story, Joy. Iโve been following since your early New Orleans days, and just gifted four little friends (and my nephew) your signed baking book. Best wishes for a lifetime of love and friendship! ??
Cheers and congratulations!
I bought your first cookbook when you still lived in Los Angeles and have baked 80% of the recipes. Still making my way through the cookbook. XO
So happy you shared your and Willโs love story. Beautiful. Big hugs to you both. I feel like I have been riding along your story since California. Thank you very much for your recipes. Your stories. Your kindness. Your mom and dad have a great legacy with you and your siblings.
Teresa in Oregon.
Congratulation! Been subscribed to your Sunday newsletter since it was in the single digits ? with love, from Canada
I am so happy for you – congratulations! Thank you for sharing your life and amazing treats with us!!
I love how we met stories!!! Why did I tear up recounting your story to my husband? Itโs amazing how much joy you can feel for someone you only know through the internet. So unbelievably happy for you! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness and adventures together.
Iโm so very very happy for you Joy!!! I remember meeting you in person at church in LA, and in the get-to-know convo being floored that your vocation was a food blogger. Iโve been following you and your blog ever since. I was bummed you moved from NOLA because I had plans of coming to bake at the Bakehouse one day, but alas, maybe youโll have classes at your Bellville Bakehouse, and I can revise my travel aspirations! Very excited for this new chapter in your journey! Congrats!!!
Joy – I am beyond pleased for you! Been here since the La days and watched as you embraced Nola. Thanks for being a safe place during the pandemic and telling women to buy your own diamonds. I have a ring I bought myself when I was 33. I will hug you one day and I know that waiting for the best is not for the faint of heart. So happy to read this and be a small part in celebrating this love that you have found! ~Cherelle
Wishing you a beautiful life together!!
So beautiful and thank you for sharing. I have followed you from the beginning and have hoped you would find your person. You were open to it that night without even knowing it!!! Love to you both.
Been cheering for you to find your person since marry me chicken.
So happy for you both!!
Joy,
I have followed you since your LA days. You have provided me with a zillion wonderful recipes, joy from your writing and lots of kitchen advice along the way. You are truly an inspiration! And the happiness you have brought me over and over again, and now with your beautiful love story, has been a GIFT! You are a gem! ??
I havenโt really read a blog post in years, Iโve skimmed for sure not but truly read. I read every word of this beautiful love story. I too searched for years and I completely understood when you said it was like recognizing love, that inner voice saying there he is. That is exactly how I felt when I saw my husband. I sobbed happy tears while reading this. Congratulations to you and Will!
Thank you for sharing this, Joy and congratulations to you both. I too had that, โwell, there he isโ, moment and we will be celebrating 50 years of joyous marriage this coming June. Wishing you and Will many years of happiness, contentment and joy!
What a beautiful story! Thanks for sharing your deepest thoughts with us. Iโve followed you since LA.
There’s moisture in my eyes as I read this beautiful story. Thank you for sharing it with us. Warms my heart for certain. God bless you both and keep you in his care as you face the next part of your journey together.
This is so special, and what a reflection of YOU! Congratulations!
Thanks for sharing your story, and in so many ways, your life with us. I think I initially found you because you had a recipe featured on Apartment Therapy in the hazy days when I was a new mom (to my now 17-year old). I loved your writing voice and the brave way you threw yourself into crafting recipes. And itโs been awesome to watch your reach expand and your story evolve over the years. I am happy that youโre happy. That you have found true partnership. And that you had a wedding day exactly on your own terms, without conforming to the pressures and expectations of others. And I hope that you can continue to do exactly that, with a smiling cheerleader to hold your hand, long past your skin wrinkling and hair graying. May you love each other till itโs devastating.
So so happy for you, Joy. What a wonderful story!
Congratulations, Joy! So, so happy for you!
I had that same feeling when I met my husband! There he is, that quiet certainty – and I was right! 25 years together now. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story, and life over the years, with us! Tearing up over here. All the very best to you!
I canโt love this enough! I love love!!! Thank you for sharing yโallโs love story :) also, the black and white photos of you two are Stunning – so much joy!
I have followed you since LA. I have grown into myself as I have followed your stories. I have looked at you as a friend and advisor. Thanks for letting us follow along on your journey. Your story brought me to tears, much like your wedding post on Instagram. You are a beautiful soul. Xoxo
Sososo happy for you, Joy!
I love your love story – continue to live it!
Your love story is another one of the gifts you have given us by choosing to share it. You and Will stand as testimony to my belief that truest love comes to those who have the courage to be authentically themselves. So grateful to you and so HAPPY for you!
This is so cool. Thank you for sharing. Congrats!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful love story. Have been following for over a decade and am happy you found your home. Congratulations!
Tearing up, love all of it. The knowing when the right person shows up. Doesn’t make the searching or the waiting easier, but how beautiful to find what you knew you needed, wanted, and all of the above.
I’ve been here a long time, and just this year finally tried the recipe that brought me to you! The pickle and peanut butter and maple syrup sandwich. And I can’t count how many I ate in 2024 since – absolutely amazing and delicious.
Congrats on the hug of love you are feeling. Thank you for sharing so much with all of us.
I would read this book. Such a perfect, sweet story. Much love to both of you.
Long time reader here also and so very happy that you found each other. Wishing you a wonderful future together!!! Congratulations!!!
Mazel tov! Here’s to a lifetime of love, joy, laughter, health, and friendship.
Crying tears of happiness for you both! Such a perfectly mixed love story.
Congratulations to you and Will. Love stories are my favorite and the one the two of you have written is among the most romantic I’ve read. Looking guard to many more chapters. May your life together be richly blessed.
Joy! This is a book and a movie. Because itโs such a true, calm, and straightforward story. And those are the most romantic imho. Sending hugs and kisses and cake! xx Maggie
Yes, itโs a book and a movie! Totally agree. Thanks for sharing the sweet story, Joy!
Great story and picture
Congratulations! As an early follower from your California days it has been just lovely to follow your story. I love your food as much as the stories.
What a beautiful story. So happy for you, Joy.
Such a lovely day and thank you for sharing it with us! I had so many questions and your blog post answered them, how great! So happy for you and Will! Congratulations and I canโt wait to see what the future holds!????????
This was so fun to read. I canโt wait to see what comes next.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful love story with us. Another follower since the LA days. Iโm so happy for you and wish you both a lifetime of love!
Congrats! What a lovely story! Thank you for sharing. I know I’ve read tidbits over the years—the moves, the motorcycle rides—so it’s very cool to put all the pieces together.
What a beautiful story! Congratulations and best wishes for happiness in the kitchen, on the road, and wherever life takes you together!
Thanks a lot for making me cry on my Delta flight this morning. So happy for you and inspired by your love.
I can’t love this enough! The love is so clear in every photo, as if you’ve been together for a lifetime. I’m so happy for the two of you (plus pets, of course).
Congratulations again!!! Everything was so beautiful and just perfect! I loved reading this and shed some happy tears for you!!! ??
What a wonderful post. Thank you for sharing & congratulations!!!
A beautiful and heartwarming story…so happy for your love!
Congratulations! The perfect dress for marrying a handsome cowboy!
So, so much love to you and Will, Joy. I, too, have followed your blog since your L.A. days. It’s been an honor (and, honestly, a comfort) to witness your journey, your growth, and your life with Will unfold. Thank you for having the courage to share with us the path you forged for yourself. Here’s to the next chapter! ??
Congratulations ?
Thank you for being so real and such an honest light. You just make me smile.
Blessings on your love and home. Life is crazy and messy but wonderful
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Thank you so much for sharing yaโlls story!! Itโs absolutely wonderful!! I’ve followed you since the beginning and itโs so neat to see where life has taken you over the years. Congrats to you and Will!
What a true love story! I have followed your for years and enjoyed meeting you at the book signing with Deb Perleman. I wish you both a happy life!
Congratulations!
May you both grow old together in love, laughter, peace, joy, perfect health and prosperity, amen.
God bless your union!
Iโm one of those people who have been following since the beginning and cheering you on every step of the way. Iโm so very happy for you, and wish you and Will a lifetime of happiness. Congratulations to both of you. xo
Congratulations Joy and Will! I’ve been here since LA, the podcast, and the cookbooks and will forever be a fan. I’m so deeply happy you have found your other half. There is no greater gift than finding your calm in the storm and choosing to be by each other’s side for the rest of your lives.
Congrats!!!! you so deserve this…
its been a pleasure seeing you grow over the years..much love from cape town.
I’m getting all teary, I love this so much. I’m 42 and wondering if my person is out there. I always hope I’ll just crash into him when I’m being spacey at home depot and it’ll just be “oh, there you are”. I’m so so so happy for you. I’ve followed your blog FOREVER, and you deserve all the good things.
Congratulations Joy! So happy for you! Lots of love from Gurgaon, India
I’m so happy for you & Will.
I have been around since LA & I think I’ve said it before, but it feels weird to be so happy for someone I don’t know IRL but feel connected to in some weird way.
May there be many decades of happiness ahead of you both xx