Wedding Suppliers in North Carolina Excited About Gay Marriage

CHARLOLTTE, North Carolina - Those who provide wedding services are excited about the legalization of same-sex marriage in North Carolina.

The Charlotte Observer reports the businesses are expecting a sharp increase in customers now that the state's ban on gay marriage has been overturned by federal courts.

Watty Newsome at the Concord Wedding Center says he expects a big increase in customers over the next year or so.

Some bakers, photographers and venue owners say it's too soon to predict a share increase.

But former City Councilman Billy Maddalon owns The Morehead Inn near uptown Charlotte and the VanLandingham Estate says he is expecting a big increase. The VanLandingham Estate hosts between 50 to 60 weddings and receptions each year.

Maddalon says some couples will just go to a judge to save money.

This story is part of our special report: "Gay Marriage". Want to read more? Here's the full list.