NEW YORK — It’s Hometowns Week on “The Bachelor.” For Grant, this week is incredibly significant as he wishes for his family to merge with his future wife’s family.
Juliana’s Hometown Date
Grant’s first destination was Newton, Massachusetts, to meet Juliana. He shared that he has feelings for her but hasn’t said anything yet. Juliana planned to guide Grant through the Little Italy of Newton, offering him a taste of her Italian heritage. Their first stop was a pizzeria, where they encountered some playful protectiveness from the locals. The pizzeria worker sweetly warned Grant about Juliana’s large family, suggesting that the entire neighborhood feels like family. The couple enjoyed making their own pizzas and tossing dough, followed by a visit to a bakery for some delicious cannoli.
Gina: It’s true what they say, Italians know food! Watching them create pizza and share cannoli was adorable, and it was exciting to see Juliana in her element.
Grant expressed his happiness about Juliana’s hometown, declaring that he had no complaints about her life there. However, Juliana cautioned him about her last relationship, which was not a good one, and she mentioned how protective her family can be. She also warned him that he would be meeting a crowd of about 100 family members. Grant thought it was amazing to see her family’s support and was ready to face whatever questions they had for him.
Gina: When Juliana listed all her relatives, it reminded me of that memorable scene from “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” where the dad introduces everyone. Brace yourself, Grant!
Upon arriving at Juliana’s family gathering, they brought pizza, cannoli, and flowers, receiving a warm cheer from the family. They found a festive celebration laid out in the backyard. Although a bit overwhelmed, Grant enjoyed the experience. Her father gave a toast and jokingly questioned Grant about kissing his daughter, indicating that the family is fiercely protective of her.
Juliana’s sister, Dominique, was the first to chat with her. Juliana assured her sister that she feels Grant could be “the one,” which brought tears to Dominique’s eyes as she expressed her hopes for genuine feelings. Meanwhile, Grant shared stories about being a ‘lone wolf’ and connecting over Juliana’s “wolfpack.”
Gina: If Juliana ends up being the one, I really think their conversation about wolves and pack dynamics will be pivotal.
Her father expressed concern for Juliana’s heart but appreciated Grant’s sincerity. Grant reassured him of his feelings for Juliana, revealing that he is falling for her. He acknowledged the life’s trials he has faced and mentioned how he admires how Juliana’s father has maintained a close-knit family, expressing his desire to learn from him. Tears were shed as their genuine connection blossomed.
Juliana asked her father for his thoughts about Grant. While expressing her fears regarding heartbreak, she mentioned how solid she believes Grant to be. Her father responded positively to Grant, sensing he has pure intentions and hopes for the couple’s future together. Grant concluded the visit on a high note by telling Juliana he is falling for her, and she reciprocated, affirming her growing love.
Gina: Juliana’s father reminds me so much of my own, both traditional Italian guardians who want the best for their daughters. Grant’s troubled history with his father likely amplified his admiration for the bond he witnessed between Juliana and her dad. It seems like he yearns for that closeness within the family he wishes to create.
Zoe’s Hometown Date
Next, Grant visited New York City for a date with Zoe. He hoped they could reach the depth he feels with the other contestants during this crucial date. Although Zoe didn’t grow up in New York, she moved there to pursue a tech career while embracing her modeling aspirations. They collaborated with a photographer to shoot a feature for Brides magazine, and Grant found it incredibly fun to see Zoe shine in her element.
Grant felt a surge of nervousness while staging a proposal but couldn’t help but admire Zoe’s radiant presence. He expressed his appreciation for their chemistry. Seeing Zoe in a wedding gown was a sweet moment, prompting Grant to compliment her beauty. He acknowledged her readiness for love and wanted her to know he understands her well. Zoe introduced Grant to her “chosen” family, which included her beloved sister, aunt, uncle, and friends.
Gina: Zoe maximized this date to reveal her stunning model side, which undoubtedly added to her confidence and presented her in a new light for Grant. She was truly captivating.
Her family warmly welcomed the couple, and her aunt shed tears of joy upon seeing Zoe. Zoe felt an immediate bond with Grant, noting his comfort level with her and how he lets her shine. However, they both expressed concern about the lack of a one-on-one date prior, and during a private conversation, Zoe’s sister pressed Grant about his feelings regarding their connection. Grant acknowledged some miscommunication, but now their bond feels timely.
As Zoe opened up about the strained relationship with her parents, she probed Grant to see if that affected him. He assured her that it didn’t, given his own experiences. He is not in love yet but emphasized that seeing her with her family has pushed his feelings closer to love.
Grant felt significant progress was made on their date and enthusiastically declared, “This woman is special,” while hinting at a future he envisions with her. However, no declarations of love were exchanged during his departure.
Gina: Smart strategy for Zoe to have her sister broach the one-on-one date topic. It struck me that Grant mentioned he isn’t in love with Zoe yet, especially considering his stronger feelings for the other contestants.
Litia’s Hometown Date
Grant’s adventure continued in Star Valley, Wyoming, where he met Litia. They enjoyed a scenic trail walk, and Grant expressed a newfound appreciation for nature alongside Litia. She introduced him to some horses, and he felt invigorated being out in the countryside. Litia shared that he was her first non-Mormon partner, and Grant voiced his limited knowledge about the faith but remained open-minded.
Gina: Wyoming is stunning, and it’s clear why Litia feels at home there. I also loved how Grant embraced her family nicknames throughout the date.
Meeting Litia’s family was a lively affair, full of warm welcomes despite their different backgrounds. Grant quickly settled in as he mingled with her parents, brothers, and extended family, participating in fun activities, sharing laughs, and enjoying a feast. He expressed how enjoyable the event was, though he felt the pressure of connecting with such a large family.
Gina: Two dates, two enormous families—the pressure is real! Grant has navigated this well so far.
Litia’s father, Rob, felt nostalgic while watching Grant meet the family, recalling his own experiences. He praised Grant’s faith, emphasizing that their differing beliefs won’t hinder their support. Grant agreed while noting Litia’s desire for a family sooner rather than later.
Litia’s mother, Maurie, inquired if Grant felt ready for engagement. He candidly revealed that he has told Litia he is falling in love with her, and her mom reassured him that they support him regardless of religious differences. Everything seemed to fall into place—but perhaps a bit overwhelming for Grant.
Gina: Religion no longer seems to be a hurdle, but pressure to begin a family is evident!
Litia spoke with her grandfather about accepting differing backgrounds in relationships, which brought tears as she shared her sentiments of love towards Grant. Her grandfather’s warmth left a lasting impression of hope, urging her that strong love can conquer any obstacle. His kindness moved Litia as she professed to Grant that she is falling in love with him as well.
Dina’s Hometown Date
Finally, Grant traveled to Chicago to meet Dina, who shared that she comes from a lineage of 11 siblings. Dina explained that due to her family’s reservations about her participation in a dating show, they wouldn’t be joining her for the date. Grant was disheartened but remained committed to getting to know her friends instead, recognizing their importance to Dina.
Gina: It’s tough for Dina; she’s made it this far, and to have family absent from this key moment is disheartening. Grant certainly has valid concerns as well.
The pair visited a pumpkin patch, where they played games and got lost in a corn maze together. As Dina reunited with her friends, she couldn’t help but tear up, realizing their approval meant a great deal to her. Her friends asked about the qualities he seeks in a wife, and Grant articulated that he values giving nature, which he admires in Dina.
Grant expressed that it felt difficult without Dina’s family actively supporting this journey when it leads towards a proposal. They had not reached any declarations of love for one another just yet.
Gina: Just as friends often serve as the sounding board for our deepest relationship matters, they can offer invaluable insight into budding romances. Dina’s family’s absence weighed heavily on her throughout the date—this tension was palpable.
Grant Meets Up with Joey
Back in Los Angeles, Grant shared a beer with Joey, a beloved former Bachelor. Joey reflected on the emotional weight of Hometowns Week, offering Grant advice on navigating connections and tough decisions with the women. Grant acknowledged his struggle with the unknown, especially in the absence of Dina’s family.
Gina: It’s heartwarming to see the camaraderie as Joey shares his experiences and knowledge. Grant’s instinctive side is essential as he moves forward.
The Women Talk
During a candid discussion, Zoe mentioned how much she enjoyed her photoshoot date with Grant, giving him a glimpse into her true self. Litia highlighted the many family members Grant had to impress, while Dina couldn’t help but note that she was the only contestant without family support. Juliana expressed her comfort level with Grant’s integration into her huge family, leaving Dina quite nervous.
Rose Ceremony
1) Litia
2) Juliana
3) Zoe
Sadly, this meant Dina was sent home. Grant held her hand as they walked out together, aware of the emotional weight of the moment. As tears streamed down her face, he expressed how challenging the decision was while praising their time together, emphasizing how much he appreciated her impact on his outlook. Dina encouraged him to remain true to his heart, showing immense grace as she left. Remarkably, she approached the limo with composure.
Gina: As an attorney, Dina’s logical nature likely aided her in managing her feelings during this tough moment. She truly displayed class throughout the entire process, and I hope she finds the love she deserves, possibly in Paradise!
Coming Up
Next week’s episode promises “The Women Tell All”, where Gina will recap all the drama and highlights. Following that, we’ll dive into the much-anticipated fantasy suites, leading towards the finale where Grant faces a tough choice.
Gina: I can’t wait to share all the details with you!
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