Black Voices: Money and Employment News from Across the Nation

Key takeaways

Met in Fresno, Calif. in middle school; Jaylon Johnson and Janessa Johnson reconnected by DM after her nursing school graduation.
On their first date, Jaylon Johnson felt moved, saying her words convinced him she was placed in his life by God.
Relationship pillars: love, family, and faith, guiding the couple as they prioritize quality time despite his busy schedule.
They share two young daughters and travel often; Jaylon Johnson calls Janessa Johnson an amazing mom and joyful companion.
Jaylon Johnson and Janessa Johnson wed at Eden Roc Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, in a garden inspired oceanside ceremony.

Shauna Cooney

With the ever-changing landscape of dating and relationships, some people think classic love stories are no longer a thing. Romantic tropes like marrying your high school sweetheart or a long-lost friend becoming a romantic interest are still happening in everyday life, though, and the success stories are inspiring us to keep believing in love. Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson and Janessa Johnson fit neatly in the friend-to-lover pipeline. And as they say, starting out as friends is a solid foundation for building lasting love.

The newlyweds first met in Fresno, Calif. while in middle school and stayed connected throughout high school. Despite harboring a silent crush for one another, they didn’t fan their flame enough for their friendship to turn romantic. Life took the couple in different directions, but they eventually reconnected through a DM when Janessa graduated from nursing school.

DM exchanges eventually led to a first date that made a significant impression on Jaylon.

“The way she talked to me and about me was something I’d never experienced before,” he shares. “From that day forward, I knew God placed her in my life for a reason.”

Love, family, and faith are three pillars of the couple’s relationship and are also guiding values they live by. Over the years, Jaylon and Janessa have lived out those values by navigating challenges as a team, encouraging personal growth, and prioritizing quality time despite his hectic work schedule. Part of the quality time includes jetsetting with their two young daughters.

“She’s an amazing mom, a great friend, and a joy to be around,” Jaylon says. “We go through every emotion together, and that’s what marriage calls for.”

The newlyweds recently cemented their love and wed at Eden Roc Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic. They tearfully shared vows in front of their closest family and friends, promising to make their love last forever.

The garden-inspired oceanside ceremony, which is captured below, was rich in style, elegance, and most-importantly, love.

Check out the stunning images from their special day by checking out this week’s Bridal Bliss.