We had the good fortune of connecting with Chad Biggs and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chad, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Thank you for the question. For me, starting my own wedding planning business wasn’t just about creating a career; it was about creating a space where all couples, regardless of their backgrounds, cultures, or orientations, could feel welcomed and supported as they embarked on one of the most significant journeys of their lives.

As a gay man and someone who was part of the first same-sex couple to be married in North Carolina, I understand firsthand the importance of having a wedding planner who not only respects and celebrates all forms of love but also has the expertise to provide the necessary guidance and support to couples from diverse backgrounds.

My thought process in starting this business was deeply rooted in the belief that every couple deserves to have their love story celebrated in a way that reflects their unique identity and values. I wanted to create a safe and inclusive space where couples could feel empowered to express their love authentically, knowing that they have a dedicated professional by their side every step of the way.

By founding my own wedding planning business, I aimed to fill a gap in the industry and provide couples with the personalized attention and support they deserve, regardless of who they are or whom they love. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the joy and gratitude on the faces of couples as they see their dream weddings come to life, and I’m honored to play a role in making those moments possible.

In essence, my business is not just about planning weddings; it’s about advocating for love in all its forms and ensuring that every couple feels seen, heard, and celebrated on their special day

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Reflecting on my career path, I’ve always been deeply passionate about the art of celebration and creating unforgettable moments for couples on their special day. However, as a gay man in a predominantly female-owned and operated industry, I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges along the way.

Breaking into the wedding planning and floral design industry as one of the only men in my area with a large-scale business was not without its hurdles. There were times when I felt like an outsider, not always included in industry gatherings or events. However, these challenges only fueled my determination to carve out my own space and prove that love knows no bounds, regardless of gender or orientation.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is not only my dedication to providing exceptional service but also my commitment to inclusivity and diversity. My journey to where I am today has been anything but easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding.

I’m most proud of the community we’ve built around our brand, where every couple, regardless of their background or identity, feels welcomed, supported, and celebrated. Through my wedding venue, floral company, and wedding planning business, I’ve had the privilege of bringing countless love stories to life, each one unique and special in its own way.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way have been invaluable. I’ve learned the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, the power of authenticity in connecting with clients, and the significance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for both clients and industry peers alike.

Ultimately, what I want the world to know about me and my brand is that love is love, and everyone deserves to have their love story told and celebrated in a way that is true to who they are. My mission is to continue advocating for inclusivity and diversity in the wedding industry, and to ensure that every couple feels empowered to create a wedding day that reflects their unique identity and vision.

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share my story, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of couples everywhere.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Downtown Exploration

Morning: Start the day with brunch at a cozy café in downtown. Enjoy some delicious coffee and pastries at Morning Times while catching up.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through downtown, exploring boutique shops, art galleries, and historic landmarks.
Evening: Head to a trendy restaurant for dinner and cocktails. Experience the vibrant nightlife scene with live music or a comedy show.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventure

Morning: Pack a picnic and spend the morning hiking or biking on scenic trails in the nearby countryside and county park.
Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch surrounded by nature, soaking in the beautiful views.
Evening: Have a barbecue dinner at Prime in Knightdale NC, complete with grilled favorites and s’mores around a campfire at home.
Day 3: Cooking and Quality Time

Morning: Visit the local farmer’s market to gather fresh ingredients for a home-cooked meal.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon cooking together in the kitchen, sharing stories and creating delicious dishes.
Evening: Host a dinner party at your place, inviting friends and family to join in the fun. Enjoy good food, laughter, and cherished memories.
Day 4: Cultural Exploration

Morning: Start the day with a visit to a museum or art exhibit, immersing yourselves in culture and creativity.
Afternoon: Enjoy a cultural culinary experience by trying out a new ethnic restaurant for lunch, exploring flavors from around the world.
Evening: Attend a live theater performance or concert for a memorable evening of entertainment and cultural enrichment.
Day 5: Relaxation and Pampering

Morning: Indulge in a spa day, treating yourselves to massages, facials, and relaxation treatments.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cozy café, savoring delicious food and conversation.
Evening: Spend a quiet evening at home, watching movies, playing games, or simply lounging and enjoying each other’s company.
Day 6: Beach Day

Morning: Pack up a cooler with snacks and drinks, and head to the nearby beach for a day of sun, sand, and surf. We are off to Nags Head and Corolla beach.
Afternoon: Swim, sunbathe, and relax on the beach, taking in the stunning ocean views and enjoying the coastal breeze.
Evening: Have a beachside barbecue dinner, grilling fresh seafood and enjoying cocktail by the seaside.
Day 7: Farewell Brunch

Morning: Wrap up the week with a farewell brunch at a charming café, called Irregardless Café, reminiscing about the wonderful memories you’ve created together.
Afternoon: Take a final stroll through downtown, picking up souvenirs and mementos to remember your amazing week.
Evening: Say goodbye with a heartfelt hug and promises to keep in touch, knowing that the memories you’ve shared will last a lifetime.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Without a doubt, I owe a huge shoutout and immense gratitude to my husband. As the first same-sex couple to be married in North Carolina, he has been my rock, my confidant, and my biggest supporter throughout this entire journey of starting and growing my own business.

His unwavering support has been the guiding light through the inevitable struggles and challenges of entrepreneurship. Even during the uncertainty of the Covid-19 pandemic, he provided me with unwavering reassurance and belief that everything would work out in the end.

His encouragement, love, and understanding have not only helped me navigate the complexities of running a business but have also been instrumental in shaping my perspective and approach to serving our clients. His belief in me has been a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to push forward and strive for excellence every step of the way.

I am eternally grateful for his presence in my life and for the unwavering support he continues to provide. He is not just my husband; he is my partner in every sense of the word, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without him by my side.

To my beloved husband, thank you for being my rock, my cheerleader, and my greatest source of strength. This shoutout is for you.

Website: www.chadBiggs.com

Instagram: @ChadBiggsEvents

Facebook: Chad Biggs Event Planning & Design

Image Credits
Krystal Kast photography photo of Chad Biggs Pamela Jahnke photography System would not let me continue to upload photos. I would love to submit 2 to 3 more if possible. If not I would like to remove these photos and add additional photos that best represents some of my most cherished moments.

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