By Melanie Petrucci, Contributing Writer
Region – Jason Roy of Worcester pledged his love (over a French vanilla coffee) to Valerie Sneade from Grafton, 27 years ago at the Dunkin Donuts on Grafton St. in Worcester but the relationship was not to be – yet!
Sneade was more interested in a career in music and theater rather than domesticity. Off she went to New York City to pursue her career. They both married (and divorced) other people. Roy raised three children: daughters Daniele and Madison and son, Jeffrey.
Fast forward, to Dec. 27, where Sneade and Roy exchanged wedding vows at the same Dunkin Donuts in front of approximately 50 family members and friends who gathered over coffee and donuts.
When asked when and how they got back together, Roy replied, “Valerie came back two years ago…It just happened for the right reasons. My mother found out that Valerie was performing at the Calliope Theatre so she got tickets and I said, ‘Yeah, I’d like to go.’”
“I think it’s great. When she came to me with this story I thought it was like the cutest thing ever and I was so excited that she wanted to do it here,” shared Cassandra Sanchez, manager of the Dunkin Donuts. “I wish them a life of happiness.”
The bride was heralded by a trumpet solo performed by friend Steve Gagliastro upon her entry. She was resplendent in burgundy as she and her groom exchanged their vows. At one point, she broke into song which brought tears of joy to Roy.
Long-time friend, the Reverend James Rice, was the officiant. He has known Valerie for over 30 years. He said during the ceremony that with no regret for lost time, Valerie and Jason have chosen this location to get it right and that dreams really do come true.
“They are so happy. They waited 27 years for this and they are like two teenagers. I’ve never seen them so happy,” noted Judi Tyler, mother of the groom, who is a resident of Shrewsbury.
“Today was exceptional, it was very different…This brought everything full circle. They did a beautiful job and I’m really thrilled for both of them,” added Eileen Harper, mother of the bride.
The couple later hosted a reception at Dino’s Restaurant in Worcester. They will reside in Worcester where Roy has recently purchased a home.
photos/Melanie Petrucci
