The Joys Of Marriage: John & Jose Vivas-Goetting's Story
John & Jose Vivas-Goetting
Tampa, FL
Editors’ Note: This post was written by Jennie O'Leary in partnership with Equality Florida.
It might seem like a whirlwind romance, since it was less than a 3 week engagement, but John and Jose VivasGoetting of Tampa have been committed to each other for almost 10 years.
The proposal happened on January 7th, 2015, just one day after the freedom to marry started in Florida. Within a few days the rings were ordered, outfits selected and license secured. Then, on January 21st, the couple was joined by John's mom and sister at the courthouse to be witnesses in their wedding.
"I didn't think getting married would change much about our relationship, but I was so surprised of the positive affect our union has had on our commitment to each other, it feels 'real,' 'official' and WONDERFUL! It feels great to say... 'husband!'" said John.
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, the two plan to have a nice date night, the first officially as husbands. And, while the day will be special, John said, "I'm a firm believer of showing someone how special they are and how much I love them on a daily basis."
John, 50, and Jose' Luis, 45, live in the Seminole Heights neighborhood of Tampa with "daBoyz," their Chichuahuas Rocco and Tonka
