5 Surprising Facts About Stephen Schlapman: The Private Life Of Little Big Town’s Rock

Contents

Stephen Schlapman is one of the most private figures in country music, yet he is the bedrock for one of its biggest stars, his wife Kimberly Schlapman of the Grammy-winning band Little Big Town. While Kimberly’s career keeps her in the spotlight, Stephen’s life is a fascinating study in quiet support, a unique love story, and a professional background that remains largely a mystery to the public. As of December 2025, the couple continues to be a pillar of the Nashville community, balancing a high-profile music career with a deeply private family life.

His story is not just one of a celebrity spouse; it’s a narrative of overcoming tragedy, a secret marriage, and a commitment to philanthropy that defines his character. Here is a deep dive into the life and surprising facts about Stephen Schlapman.

Stephen Schlapman: Complete Biographical Profile

Stephen Schlapman maintains a low public profile, but key details about his life and family have emerged through his wife's public interviews and records. He is primarily known for his supportive role in his wife's life and his previous work within the country music industry.

  • Full Name: Stephen Schlapman
  • Date of Birth: August 1969 (Approximate)
  • Age (as of Dec 2025): 56 years old (Approximate)
  • Place of Residence: Nashville, Tennessee
  • Spouse: Kimberly Schlapman (m. November 28, 2006)
  • Children: Two daughters, Daisy Pearl Schlapman (born 2007) and Dolly Grace Schlapman (adopted 2017)
  • Known Career: Former Stage Manager for Little Big Town
  • Philanthropy: Co-founder of The Dogwood Fund at the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
  • Notable Fact: His wife’s first husband was also named Steve.

The Unconventional Love Story: Friendship, Tragedy, and a Secret Elopement

Stephen and Kimberly Schlapman’s relationship is far from typical, rooted in a strong friendship that blossomed following an unimaginable loss. This foundation of support and deep connection is a key reason for the longevity of their marriage.

A Friendship That Became a Lifeline

Before they were married, Stephen and Kimberly were close friends. This friendship proved crucial when Kimberly endured the tragedy of losing her first husband, Steven Roads, who passed away suddenly in 2005.

Stephen, who was Little Big Town's stage manager at the time, was a consistent source of comfort and support during Kimberly’s grieving period. She has often credited him with helping her find happiness again, noting that their love story started with an unimaginable loss but ended with the blessing of a new family.

The Secret Marriage and Public Wedding

One of the most surprising facts about the couple is the secret they kept about their wedding. While the public date for their marriage is November 28, 2006, Kimberly later revealed that she and Stephen actually eloped six months earlier.

The Little Big Town singer kept the elopement a secret from almost everyone, including her family and children, for nearly two decades. Only a handful of people—reportedly four—knew the truth until she publicly shared the story.

The "official" November 2006 wedding was a public celebration, but the private, earlier ceremony highlights the couple's desire to keep their most intimate moments protected and their relationship grounded away from the celebrity spotlight.

Stephen Schlapman’s Career and Philanthropic Endeavors

While his wife is a household name in country music, Stephen Schlapman’s professional life is a testament to the fact that not all success needs to be public. His known career path and charitable work paint a picture of a man dedicated to both his family and his community.

From Stage Manager to Private Professional

Stephen Schlapman’s most public-facing role was his time as the stage manager for Little Big Town. This position placed him directly within the music industry, giving him a front-row seat to his wife's career and the demanding logistics of a touring band.

However, his career did not end there. Kimberly has mentioned that the family once moved to Knoxville for *his job*, suggesting he has had a professional career outside of the band's immediate touring schedule.

Today, his specific professional background is largely unknown to the public, leading some sources to speculate that he may have transitioned into a full-time, stay-at-home father role, supporting his wife and managing their family life. This choice allows Kimberly to focus on her music, while Stephen ensures stability and privacy at home.

Commitment to Giving Back: The Dogwood Fund

Stephen and Kimberly are actively involved in philanthropy, demonstrating their commitment to the Middle Tennessee community. Together, they established "The Dogwood Fund" through the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (CFMT).

Establishing this fund is a clear indication of Stephen's desire to use their family's platform and resources to support charitable causes. The fund allows them to work with estate planning professionals to create a lasting legacy of giving, showcasing his role as a serious partner in their financial and charitable planning.

Family Life and Building a Future in Nashville

The Schlapman family life is characterized by warmth, strong faith, and an open approach to discussing personal struggles, which Stephen fully supports. Their two daughters, Daisy Pearl (biological) and Dolly Grace (adopted), are the center of their world.

The couple has been open about their journey to expand their family, including the emotional process of adopting their youngest daughter. Kimberly has described Dolly Grace as a "gift" from her first husband, a sentiment that Stephen fully embraces, creating a beautiful, blended family narrative.

In recent years, the family has made headlines for their plans to build a new home in Nashville, further cementing their roots in the area. This new construction project, which was set to begin within a year of a 2024 report, signifies their long-term commitment to the city and their family's future together.

From his quiet support as a stage manager to his role as a loving husband and father who manages a private life amidst public fame, Stephen Schlapman is the essential, steady force behind one of country music’s most beloved stars. His story is a powerful reminder that the most influential roles are often played out of the spotlight.

5 Surprising Facts About Stephen Schlapman: The Private Life of Little Big Town’s Rock
stephen schlapman
stephen schlapman

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