Joan Vassos and Chock Chapple, stars of The Golden Bachelorette, are starting a new chapter together in New York City. After getting engaged at the end of their season, the couple announced they’ll be making NYC their primary residence while keeping their homes in Maryland and Kansas. This move will not only deepen their relationship but also allow them to remain close to their children and families.
Joan, a 61-year-old private school administrator from Rockville, Maryland, is a mother of four adult children—Nicholas, 34; Erica, 33; Allison, 30; and Luke, 28. Her late husband John, who passed away in 2021, was the father of her children. Joan is also very close to her 92-year-old mother, Mary, and her late husband’s mother, Elaine. Chock, 60, an insurance executive from Wichita, Kansas, is the father of two adult children, Taylor and Tyler, whom he shares with his ex-wife, Heather. They were married for 12 years before divorcing in 2010.
Why Their NYC Move Will Strengthen Their Bond
One of the best aspects of The Golden Bachelorette for Joan and Chock was the uninterrupted time they spent together, away from the pressures of real life. Despite the hardships, including Chock’s mother’s passing and Joan’s mother’s illness, they were able to focus solely on their relationship. Their new NYC home will continue this trend, offering them a private space where they can nurture their bond without distance getting in the way.
Joan and Chock’s decision to move to NYC was part of Chock’s proposal, symbolized by a heart-shaped keychain he gifted Joan. While Joan had initially expressed hesitation about leaving her home state, Chock’s idea of maintaining their homes in Maryland and Kansas allowed for a perfect compromise. This way, they can be together in NYC while still being able to visit their families easily.
Living Their Dream and Staying Close to Family
Both Joan and Chock have always dreamed of living in New York City, and making that dream come true together will enhance their relationship. Joan shared with Us Weekly that they plan to balance their time between NYC, Maryland, and Kansas. “We’re not leaving our roots behind,” she said. “We know we’ll spend time in Maryland and Kansas, but NYC is where we’ll create this new chapter together.”
NYC’s energy, culture, and convenience make it an ideal place for them to explore together. From dining out to enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere, Joan and Chock are excited to embrace city life. Joan pointed out that having a home base in the city, while still maintaining ties to their family homes, will give them the perfect balance. She noted that it’s only about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from NYC to Maryland, and Chock’s children live on the East Coast, making it easy for him to spend time with them as well.
A Plan for a Lasting Future
Unlike The Golden Bachelor’s Gerry and Theresa, whose marriage ended shortly after their wedding due to disagreements over where to live, Joan and Chock’s well-thought-out plan should help them avoid similar pitfalls. By prioritizing their connection and finding a practical solution for living arrangements, they’ve set themselves up for success. Their commitment to each other and their families shows that their love is built on both hearts and minds.
Joan and Chock’s move to NYC is more than just a change of scenery—it’s the beginning of a shared life that honors their bond, dreams, and family commitments. With plans already in place to spend time in multiple homes, their future together looks bright and balanced. Their thoughtful approach makes it clear that they’re ready to make their love story last a lifetime.
