The Full Story of Bridget Marquardt Husband and the Love Life of the Former Girls Next Door Star
You’re searching for Bridget Marquardt husband because fans of The Girls Next Door have followed her life since her days at the Playboy Mansion. Bridget has always been known for her warm personality, love of Halloween, bubbly charm, and down-to-earth nature. While many still associate her with Hugh Hefner’s world, her real romantic history is much different than the glamorous image of the early 2000s.
Bridget Marquardt was previously married to Chad Marquardt before her Playboy fame, and today she is not married—but she is engaged to filmmaker Nicholas Carpenter, her long-term partner of more than a decade. Their relationship is deep, creative, grounded, and built far away from the pressures of reality TV.
Below, you’ll explore Bridget’s past marriage, her long-term relationship with Nicholas, their engagement, their life together today, and what motivates Bridget in love and partnership beyond the spotlight.
Who Is Bridget Marquardt?
Bridget Christina Marquardt, born on September 25, 1973, is best known for starring in The Girls Next Door, the E! reality series that gave viewers an inside look at life inside the Playboy Mansion. Her upbeat personality, enthusiasm for costumes, and love of themed parties made her one of the most beloved cast members.
Beyond reality television, she is also a host, producer, and paranormal enthusiast who runs the popular podcast Ghost Magnet with Bridget Marquardt. Her interests in horror, haunted history, and creative storytelling have shaped the life she shares with her fiancé today.
Bridget Marquardt’s First Marriage to Chad Marquardt
Before fame, Bridget was married to Chad Marquardt, a relationship that started long before her Playboy days. They married in the late 1990s, back when Bridget was still in college and building her early career. Their marriage was supportive during the beginning of her journey, but over time, their goals and lifestyles evolved in different directions.
By the time Bridget moved into the Playboy Mansion and began filming The Girls Next Door, her marriage to Chad had already begun to unravel. The growing differences eventually led to their separation and divorce, which was finalized in 2008.
Bridget has rarely spoken publicly about the marriage, but when she does, she speaks respectfully, acknowledging that the relationship simply ran its course as both partners grew into different versions of themselves.
Does Bridget Marquardt Have a Husband Today?
Bridget Marquardt does not currently have a husband. She has only been legally married once—to Chad Marquardt—and that marriage ended in divorce.
However, she is in a long-term, committed relationship with filmmaker Nicholas Carpenter, and the two have been engaged since 2015. Even though many fans assume they’re married because of their long engagement, they have chosen not to rush a wedding.
Who Is Bridget Marquardt’s Fiancé, Nicholas Carpenter?
Nicholas “Nick” Carpenter is a filmmaker, screenwriter, and creative professional known for his work in the horror genre. He comes from a notable family—his father is Scott Carpenter, one of NASA’s original Mercury Seven astronauts.
Nicholas has worked on films, independent projects, and creative media ventures. His artistic background meshes perfectly with Bridget’s love for costumes, spooky themes, and storytelling. Together, they make a charismatic, imaginative couple with a shared passion for Halloween culture, vintage aesthetics, and paranormal curiosity.
How Bridget Met Nicholas Carpenter
Bridget and Nicholas met through the entertainment world in Los Angeles after Bridget’s departure from the Playboy Mansion. At the time, she was redefining her identity and stepping into a more independent chapter of her life. Nicholas entered this stage at the perfect moment, sharing her interests in creative expression and the supernatural.
They clicked quickly through shared humor, mutual curiosity, and a deep appreciation for art, film, and Halloween. Their early dates often involved haunted attractions, themed events, and quirky outings—activities that felt completely natural to both of them.
The Engagement: Bridget and Nicholas’s Next Chapter
Nicholas proposed to Bridget in September 2015, giving her a moment straight out of a fantasy Halloween-themed romance. Bridget has said that the proposal was magical, personal, and deeply meaningful.
Even though they have remained engaged for years, they have not felt pressured to finalize a wedding date. Bridget has explained many times that they feel already committed and secure without rushing into marriage. Their relationship is built on connection, not deadlines.
Why They Haven’t Married Yet
Bridget and Nicholas have been open about why they haven’t married. Life, career changes, creative projects, and personal priorities have shaped their timeline. Bridget has said that they’re in no rush because they already feel married in all the ways that matter.
If they do hold a wedding, it will likely be Halloween-themed—something dramatic, whimsical, and perfectly reflective of their shared love for spooky aesthetics and celebration.
Their Life Together Today
Bridget and Nicholas live in Los Angeles in a home filled with charm, vintage decor, seasonal displays, and—of course—year-round Halloween pieces. Their house reflects their personalities and interests.
They enjoy exploring haunted locations for Bridget’s podcast, hosting themed parties, traveling to spooky events, and supporting each other’s creative ventures. Nicholas often contributes behind the scenes to Bridget’s projects, while Bridget encourages and celebrates Nicholas’s artistic work.
Their partnership is defined by harmony, collaboration, and playfulness.
How Bridget’s Life Changed After Playboy
Leaving the Playboy Mansion allowed Bridget to rediscover her individuality. She embraced her lifelong love of the paranormal, leaning into creative pursuits that felt deeply authentic. Nicholas has been a huge part of that evolution.
He supports her interests wholeheartedly, encouraging her curiosity, helping her build her podcast brand, and sharing in her adventures. Their relationship reflects a fresh start for Bridget—one based on mutual respect, personal growth, and emotional honesty.
What Makes Their Relationship Special
Bridget and Nicholas’s relationship works because they:
- Share artistic passions
- Value creativity and imagination
- Appreciate each other’s quirks
- Support each other’s dreams
- Maintain a strong foundation of friendship
Their connection is based not on fame or appearances but on genuine companionship. Bridget often describes their relationship as fun, loving, and nurturing—everything she wanted in her post-Playboy chapter.
What You Can Learn From Bridget Marquardt’s Love Journey
Bridget’s romantic path teaches meaningful lessons. She shows that relationships evolve as people grow and that it’s okay to leave behind a marriage that no longer aligns with your identity. Her engagement to Nicholas reminds you that love can thrive on your own timeline, without pressure or comparison.
Her story also proves that a supportive partner can help you become the most authentic version of yourself. With Nicholas, she has found a relationship built on creativity, respect, and joy—values that matter far more than a legal marriage certificate.
Optional Outro
When you explore “Bridget Marquardt husband,” you find a layered story. She was once married to Chad Marquardt, a relationship that ended in 2008. Today, she is happily engaged to Nicholas Carpenter, her creative, kind-hearted partner of many years. Their life together is joyful, imaginative, and grounded in real emotional connection. Bridget’s journey shows that love doesn’t always follow a traditional script—sometimes, the most meaningful relationships are the ones shaped by authenticity, companionship, and the freedom to grow.
Featured image source: Pinterest
