As Joan Vassos and Chock Chapple move forward following their engagement on The Golden Bachelorette, one big question looms: Where will they settle down? Joan and Chock fell for each other early in the competition, and their love story captivated viewers. But despite their strong connection, the distance between Joan’s life in Maryland and Chock’s home in Kansas presents a significant challenge—one that seems unlikely to be resolved in favor of Kansas.
Family First: Why Maryland Is Non-Negotiable
Joan’s deep connection to her family is evident, making it clear why she’s hesitant to relocate to Kansas. A mother of four and grandmother of two, Joan cherishes her role as a matriarch and is unwilling to be far from her loved ones for long. While she and Chock initially planned to divide their time between Maryland, Kansas, and New York City, it’s evident Maryland holds her heart.
Her family-first values were on full display during her time on The Golden Bachelor, where Joan made the difficult decision to leave the show to support her daughter during a health crisis. This unwavering devotion set the tone for her journey on The Golden Bachelorette.
Even the couple’s first holiday season post-engagement reflected Joan’s priorities. Chock and his children joined Joan’s family in Maryland for Christmas, where she created a welcoming space for their blended family. Personalized stockings and festive traditions made it clear that Joan sees Maryland as her home base—a place she’s not ready to leave behind.
A Dream Life in New York City
If Joan were to relocate permanently, New York City—not Kansas—would be her top choice. The vibrant city has become a meaningful part of Joan and Chock’s story. During the finale of The Golden Bachelorette, Chock symbolized their future together with a key, representing their dream of finding a home in New York.
For Joan, New York represents a fresh start after the loss of her late husband, John Vassos, to pancreatic cancer in 2021. Similarly, Chock’s own journey of loss and healing makes the city a perfect backdrop for their new chapter. The couple has already spent countless hours exploring the city together, searching for the perfect place to begin this exciting phase of their lives.
While Kansas is a part of Chock’s past, New York embodies the hope and renewal they both seek. Its proximity to Joan’s family in Maryland makes it even more appealing, allowing her to stay connected to her children and grandchildren.
The Kansas Dilemma
Kansas, while significant to Chock’s life and career, seems an unlikely fit for Joan. The geographic and emotional distance from her family is simply too great. While Joan has made efforts to embrace Chock’s life, even spending New Year’s in Wichita and meeting his friends, she admitted in an Instagram post that she was eager to return home to Maryland.
Chock’s children, now young professionals, have also relocated to the East Coast, further diminishing the pull of Kansas. Joan, on the other hand, is in a stage of life where being near her family is non-negotiable.
Love Conquers Distance
Despite their geographic challenges, Joan and Chock’s relationship remains strong. Chock has shown a willingness to adapt, prioritizing Joan’s happiness above all else. While it’s unlikely that Joan will ever call Kansas home, their love story demonstrates that compromises can be made to build a life together.
Ultimately, their future seems destined to unfold in Maryland or New York—places that allow Joan to remain close to her family while building a new chapter with Chock. Their bond proves that love, when rooted in understanding and shared values, can overcome even the toughest obstacles.
