Today we’d like to introduce you to Destiny Chapman.
Hi Destiny, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up, I always had an affinity for all forms of art, particularly visual and performance arts. When I entered middle school, I auditioned for my school’s theatre program. That was the first stepping stone. Over the next few years, I realized acting wasn’t my forte, but I loved being behind the scenes. In high school, I fell in love with the role of “stage manager.” I loved it so much that I went to Webster University’s Conservatory of Theatre Arts in St. Louis for Stage Management.
Unfortunately, in the middle of my time there, the pandemic happened and sent me back home to Texas. I attempted to continue the program, but I found it really hard to find my love for the arts fulfilled as we attempted to make theatre via Zoom. I ended up leaving the school and staying in Texas. The season of life following that decision was when I met the love of my life!
We dated for a short time before we got engaged. I was so thrilled to plan our wedding. In fact, planning our wedding fed my craving for live events and logistics. From there, wedding planning became my focus! I dug in. I also returned to school and earned a BBA in Accounting. I have now had the absolute blessing of walking alongside so many couples as they make their commitments to one another! During off-peak seasons, we also plan smaller community events.
Throughout the years, I’ve also had two beautiful children who have taught me so much about life’s unpredictability. They have taught me deep compassion and the ability to “go with the flow.”
My journey in theatre taught me how to problem solve in the moment (i.e. the show must go on), how to design, and how to empathize. My journey as a wife and a mother has taught me how to compassionately care for people. These roles in life have contributed to the heart behind my business.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think the biggest struggle along the way was feeling like a failure for dropping out of college. Little did I know that there was so much more in store; I just had to be faithful and follow where the Lord was leading me. Learning to let go and truly tap into who I was and the opportunities around me was a huge breakthrough.
Learning to run a business and go to school while I was pregnant and postpartum was absolutely a challenge as well. There were (and still are) many days spent rocking my babies while I take notes during meetings. Many of my clients have met my goofy kids as they pop in to say hi during planning meetings. It is beautiful to bring life to business and business to life.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I plan and design weddings and events with an emphasis on curated details and intentional experiences. My goal is to build authentic relationships with our clients so we can create an event that genuinely tells their story. When it comes to weddings, my focus is to curate an event that speaks to you and reflects the connection you share with your partner. I thrive on blending multiple design inspirations and finding meaningful, cohesive ways to bring them together in a single, unforgettable celebration.
My heart is to acknowledge humanity and meet people where they are. I tell all my clients during the consult call that we are planning your wedding amidst life —people get sick, people lose jobs, new relationship dynamics are formed, etc. We have to plan with the human experience in mind.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Ask the questions. The wild part about the wedding industry is that there is no formal training, persay. Don’t assume you know. Every vendor you work with will be different, with their own policies and procedures. It’s best just to ask, but don’t forget to advocate for your client at the same time.
With this in mind, spend time learning what empathy means. Experience life from others’ perspectives. Weddings and events bring together many people with diverse life experiences and cultures. It is vital to learn how to see beyond your worldview. It’s critical to learn how to understand the greater picture. Doing so will allow you to be a better collaborator, planner, advocate, and all-around human.
Pricing:
- Coordination Starting at $1,200
- Partial Planning and Design Starting at $2,400
- Full Planning Starting at $5,000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aboundingevents.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aboundingevents/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Abounding-Love-Event-Company-100088876133356/
Image Credits
Hector Carmona Photography
Ember Claire Photo
Soul Fire Creative
