We had the good fortune of connecting with Megan Givens-Gilmer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Megan, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business has always been a goal of mine. I come from a family with a strong entrepreneurial background, so I was exposed early on to the mindset, work ethic, and creativity that go into running a business. That environment really shaped me. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of building something from the ground up that reflects my values and passions. Weddings and events have always held a special place in my heart—the energy, the emotion, the opportunity to bring someone’s vision to life—so it felt like the perfect industry to pour my heart into. More than anything, I wanted the ability to create meaningful experiences for others while having the freedom to shape my own path. It felt like a natural next step—not just a career move, but a calling.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career in weddings and events has been a blend of passion, persistence, and purpose. I started Givens Event Co. with a vision to create beautiful, intentional celebrations while taking the stress off my clients’ shoulders. I wanted to build more than just a planning company—I wanted to build a brand that truly serves people, understands their stories, and brings their visions to life in a way that feels effortless and personal.

Recently, I made the decision to completely rebrand my company—from Megan Givens Weddings & Events to Givens Event Co. It was a big move that felt both scary and exciting, but it was time for a shift that reflected the growth and direction of the business.

This rebrand was about so much more than just a name change. It marked a new chapter—one that embraces a more elevated, streamlined, and inclusive approach to planning not just weddings, but all kinds of meaningful celebrations. I wanted the brand to feel timeless, approachable, and aligned with the level of service we provide.

Change can be uncomfortable, especially when your name is so tied to your brand, but stepping into Givens Event Co. gave me the space to grow beyond just myself—to build something that can scale, serve more people, and evolve with intention. It’s been a leap, but one that I’m incredibly proud of.

What sets me apart is how deeply I care about the experience from start to finish. I believe the planning process should be just as memorable as the day itself. I focus on building real relationships with my clients and vendors, creating not just aesthetically beautiful events, but meaningful ones. I also bring structure, design, and heart to every project—and I’m always thinking three steps ahead.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to overcome self-doubt, burnout, and all the behind-the-scenes challenges of building a business from the ground up. But every hard season taught me something: how to pivot, how to ask for help, and how to keep showing up even when it’s tough. I’ve learned the power of boundaries, the importance of client education, and that success is more about consistency than perfection.

To date, I’ve had the honor of planning and designing over 100 weddings and events, and each one has taught me something new. I’m incredibly proud to have been named Best of Athens 2024, to receive an honorable mention for Best of Georgia 2024, and to have been published in Atlanta Style Weddings. These recognitions are a reflection of the love, intention, and commitment I pour into every celebration.

What I want people to know about me and my brand is this: I genuinely care. This isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. I’m here to serve, to support, and to make the journey to “I do” as joyful and seamless as possible. I’m proud of what I’ve built, but even more excited for what’s ahead

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely—I truly believe that no one builds something meaningful completely on their own. First and foremost, I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to my family. I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by entrepreneurs, and their hard work, resilience, and support laid the foundation for everything I’ve pursued. They showed me what it means to take risks and believe in your vision, even when things get hard.

I also want to recognize the incredible vendor community and clients I’ve had the privilege of working with in the wedding and events industry. This industry thrives on collaboration, and I’ve learned so much from planners, photographers, florists, and so many others who have poured their heart into their craft and helped shape mine. Lastly, to every couple who trusted me with one of the most important days of their lives—thank you. You’ve inspired me more than you know and played a huge part in my journey.

Website: https://givenseventco.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/givenseventco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MeganGivensweddings/

Image Credits
Amber Brannen Photography

Drift Away Photography

Kelsi Jones Photo

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.