 It was in Rancho Mirage, a city just 100 miles east of Los Angeles, when the two met. Vanessa was hired for a campaign Scott was working on. He happened to also be her new boss, and while it might not have been love at first sight for Vanessa, she immediately caught Scott’s eye. “I was training the new field staff for a local ordinance campaign,” states Scott. “Unfortunately, she was impervious to my boyish charm and it took me two years to even get a date.”
And it was well worth the wait.
The two dated for about a year and then broke off their relationship. “He called one night and said he missed me,” states Vanessa. “We knew if we got back together, it would be forever.”
And forever was right.
It didn’t take too long before Scott asked for Vanessa’s hand in marriage. “I gladly got down on my knee,” states Scott, “and it was the best decision I have ever made.”
On October 20, 1985, the couple became husband and wife. Complete with dancing, food, family and fun at St. Peters Armenian Apostolic Church in Van Nuys. “It was truly a ‘My Big Fat Armenian Wedding’ experience,” states Vanessa.
The Wilks have not only found success in love, but they also share a love for their community. Vanessa is the current president of Soroptimist International of Greater SCV, an organization committed to helping others. “These women inspire me…and I am so proud to be a part of this organization.” Vanessa also sits on the advisory board for several non-profit organizations in our valley.
Scott currently serves for the California State Assembly, representing the 38th Assembly District, encompassing Simi Valley, the northern section of the San Fernando Valley and most of the Santa Clarita Valley. “Being involved in the community is in our DNA,” states Scott. “When we had young children (Scott and Alison Grace) we participated in Sunday school, PTA, School Site Council and the kids’ activities. We transitioned to helping others when that season ended.”
Despite their busy careers, the couple manages to find time for each other as their nearly three decade marriage continues to flourish. “Vanessa is my confidant, political consultant and best friend,” states Scott. “I would not occupy the office I hold if it had not been for her love, encouragement, guidance and support…When I first glanced at her, I was captured by her smile and that never diminished over the three decades I’ve known her.” He adds, with a smile, “She can still rock a pair of high heels, which is an added bonus.”
“I feel like marriage only gets better with time,” states Vanessa. “Scott has a huge soft heart and he is truly committed to our relationship and family. In the past 29 years, there has never been a dull moment.” |
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