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Designing grazing tables for Charleston parties

The Ultimate Charleston Welcome Party: 4 Ways to Wow Guests

Dear Readers, Welcome parties in the Lowcountry set the tone for unforgettable celebrations – think golden-hour sunsets, gentle breezes and effortless outdoor gatherings. Here’s how Hamby Catering makes hosting easy – and delicious – with chef-driven menus, signature sips and Southern Hospitality. 1. Start with a Stunning First Impression Welcome guests with a chef-curated grazing display, crudite or charcuterie board from The Market Hamby, featuring artisanal meats, cheeses, and Hamby Catering’s famous candied bacon. Not only is it beautiful, it sets the tone for a night of indulgence and connection. 2. Keep the Energy Flowing with Passed Favorites Portable bites keep conversations moving. Our crowd-favorite chicken & waffle bite is a guaranteed hit, and you can’t go wrong with our classic chicken salad tea sandwiches for a nod to tradition. 3. Serve a Taste of the Lowcountry For the main event, nothing says “welcome to Charleston” like a Lowcountry Boil — shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage, all perfectly seasoned and served family-style for a true coastal experience. Other favorites include our classic shrimp and grits or roadside barbecue station! 4. Raise a Glass to Local Flavor Round out your welcome party with bar service that nods to local favorites. From

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Late‑night wedding bites promo image

With Love, from Hamby: The Rise of the Late Night Wedding Bite

Late-night weddings snacks are no longer an afterthought – in fact, they’re now becoming a couple’s first request. To answer the call, here at Hamby we’ve curated an entire menu for late-night eats.  One recent celebration at Patriots Point took things to the next level: monogrammed burgers. Yes, you read that right. With their initials branded into the top of each  bun, this couple served up a late-night bite that was as personalized as it was delicious — and guests couldn’t get enough. Slider Sentation Personal touches are everywhere at weddings—but have you considered adding them to your culinary spread? Caroline and Lowndes did just that with a mouthwatering detail: monogrammed sliders that were as charming as they were delicious. Passed among guests, these bite-sized beauties added a whimsical, personalized touch to the celebration. About the Event: A Celebration at Patriots Point Links Guests were welcomed with sweeping views of Charleston Harbor, a gentle coastal breeze, and the timeless charm of Patriots Point Links. A beautifully appointed tent with elevated rentals offered the perfect blend of open-air elegance and comfort—providing space to mingle, relax, and take in the spring evening as the celebration unfolded. More Delicious Bites While the sliders

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Highlighting late night wedding bites with playful styling

With Love, from Hamby: 5 Custom Dishes Curated by Hamby Catering

Dear Readers, The best weddings are made in the details—little touches that tell your love story and leave guests feeling truly connected. At Hamby, we believe your menu should do the same. From customizing favorites to creating dishes from scratch, we’re here to make every bite feel personal. Below are five custom creations, crafted with love for unforgettable celebrations—proof that Hamby caters to you, right down to the details. 1. Korean Fried Corn Dogs To complement the Asian-American fusion of one wedding, our team crafted Korean Fried Corn Dogs for the reception—an irresistibly fun and flavorful nod to the bride’s heritage. Guests loved the subtly sweet crunch and gooey cheese pull (if you know, you know). If you haven’t tried one yet, consider this your sign! 2. A Wedding Cake Recreation Exclusive to our flagship venue, The Rutledge Room, are confections lovingly crafted by our pastry chef, Marie. This particular cake was created for a 50th anniversary celebration—a heartfelt replica of the couple’s original wedding cake from the day they said “I do.”Sweet tip: this vintage-style piping is making a stylish comeback—and we’re here for it! 3. Mini Pizzas Created for the Charleston City Paper’s Best of Charleston party (you’re

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Showcasing outdoor wedding catering beneath a canopy

With Love, From Hamby: A Peach State Love Story

Dear Readers, This spring, we had the pleasure of bringing our signature flavor and flair to a wedding that was as unforgettable as the love story it celebrated. Set against the breezy beauty of Sea Island, Georgia, this joyful day was full of thoughtful details and incredible food moments. From curated coastal bites to late-night favorites, every dish was made with love—and served with a view.  With love, Candice Hudnall, President + Owner, Hamby Catering & Events Sea Island Sanctuary Lush palms, ocean breezes, and sweeping views made Sea Island the ideal setting for this romantic affair. Guests dined under a floral-draped clear-top tent, surrounded by pastel petals and the soothing sound of waves. A soft palette of greens, blush pinks, and creamy whites perfectly complemented the spring menu. The celebration was beautifully orchestrated in partnership with Haley Kelly Events, known for her artful, detail-driven planning. Bites to Remember The culinary lineup was a true celebration of coastal charm and Southern flavor, highlighted by the creole shrimp & grits served in vintage glass dishes with sweet corn and a touch of heat. A custom ice sculpture raw bar wowed guests with fresh oysters and chilled seafood, complete with vibrant garnishes. Passed

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Featuring grazing table wedding catering trends

Trendspotting: 3 Wedding Trends we’re seeing this Year!

Dear Readers, Your wedding menu should be as memorable as your celebration! At Hamby, we craft exceptional culinary experiences tailored to your style. Whether you love interactive elements, nostalgic bites or refined elegance, we have something special for you. Keep reading to explore three of the hottest wedding food trends for 2025 & 2026! With love, Candice Hudnall, President + Owner, Hamby Catering & Events Interactive Stations: Engage your guests with an immersive dining experience! Interactive food stations bring a fun and personalized touch to your wedding, allowing guests to customize their meals. Whether it’s a gourmet seafood bar, a taco station with all the fixings or a chef-attended carving table, these stations turn dining into an experience your guests will never forget. Elevated Late-Night Snacks: Keep the party going with indulgent late-night bites! As the evening progresses, surprise your guests with elevated comfort foods like fries & ketchup, gourmet sliders or a mini taco bar. These delicious treats offer the perfect pick-me-up and ensure that your celebration ends on a high note! Grazing Tables: For a feast as stunning as it is delicious, grazing tables are a must-have! Featuring an artful display of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, fresh fruits and

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Award-winning catering presentation at Rutledge Room

Hamby Catering & Events Wins National Honor for Best Hors D’oeuvre

Hamby Catering & Events has been recognized on the national level, winning Best Hors d’Oeuvre at the prestigious Catered Arts Through Innovative Excellence (CATIE) Awards, presented by the International Caterers Association (ICA). This esteemed award highlights Hamby Catering’s dedication to culinary excellence and innovation, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in the catering industry. The winning dish, Beet Hummus Rounds, impressed judges with its exceptional flavor, presentation, and creativity—demonstrating Hamby Catering’s commitment to elevating the guest experience through thoughtfully curated cuisine. Created specifically for the launch of their brand-new flagship event venue, The Rutledge Room, in the heart of downtown Charleston, this dish showcased the innovation and artistry that define Hamby Catering’s culinary excellence. “We are incredibly honored to receive this national recognition from the International Caterers Association,” says Candice Hudnall, President and Owner of Hamby Catering & Events. “Our team works tirelessly to push the boundaries of culinary excellence while staying true to the signature hospitality and quality that have defined Hamby Catering for over four decades. This award is a testament to our passion, talent, and commitment to delivering extraordinary dining experiences, especially for Sous Chef Gabriel Graves, creator of the dish.” A woman-owned and operated, full-service caterer,

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Demonstrating plated service style at a catered event

What Serving Style Suits You Best?

Dear Readers, Seated & served, stations, buffet style… the decisions are endless! At Hamby Catering, we specialize in bringing your vision to life—no matter the style you choose. Not sure which option is right for you? Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Keep reading to discover the perfect catering style to complement your special day. With love, Candice Hudnall, President + Owner, Hamby Catering & Events Seated & Served: Imagine your guests seated in elegance, each course carefully served with attention to detail. At Hamby Catering, we specialize in creating a refined seated and served experience, where your guests enjoy every bite in a relaxed and intimate setting. This option is perfect for those who want a formal, personalized dining experience that ensures your special day feels both luxurious and memorable. Stations: If you’re looking for something interactive and fun, Hamby Catering’s station service offers a unique way to delight your guests. Each station presents a variety of carefully crafted dishes, allowing guests to explore different flavors at their own pace. This style encourages mingling and creates a dynamic atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a lively and engaging celebration. Buffet Style: For a relaxed and versatile option, our

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Highlighting wedding reception catering timeline inspiration

Your Wedding Timeline – Let the Planning Begin!

Dear Readers, Planning your wedding can feel like a whirlwind of decisions, but we’re here to help! This month, we’re diving into the key milestones of wedding planning—from securing your dream venue to planning your menu and beyond. Whether you’re months away or just getting started, these five essential steps will ensure your big day is everything you’ve dreamed of and more. With love, Candice Hudnall, President + Owner, Hamby Catering & Events One Year Out:  A year out, the journey begins with a celebration of delicious moments. The date is set, the budget crafted, and venues booked. Your guest list and theme take shape with delicious cuisine at the heart of it all. Early vendor choices, including catering, set the stage for unforgettable flavors! Six Months Out: Six months away, the details unfold, with food at the center. Save-the-dates are sent, guest lists refined and bridal plans made. Transportation and honeymoon details set, while we begin crafting dishes that tell your love story, ensuring every bite leaves your guests savoring the moment. Two Months Out: Two months away, the vision refines. Invitations are sent, RSVPs in and your personalized menu is perfected. The timeline flows seamlessly! From signature cocktails

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Catered event styling showcase

With Love, from Hamby: A Radiant Rutledge Room Rehearsal

Dear Readers, This month we’re highlighting a stunning rehearsal luncheon celebrating the beautiful couple, Charlotte & Alexander, hosted at our flagship event venue, The Rutledge Room. All is fair in holiday celebrations, but this luncheon was the celebration of a lifetime. Keep reading to learn more about the dining, venue, details and more!  With love, Candice Hudnall, President + Owner, Hamby Catering & Events The Couple: This month’s feature celebrates Charlotte and Alexander, whose love inspired a holiday-themed floral luncheon. The intimate gathering at The Rutledge Room featured vibrant florals, lush holiday greenery and a curated menu, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere. It was an honor to bring their vision to life, filled with love, laughter and festive cheer. The Dining: Charlotte and Alexander’s seated luncheon showcased a refined menu, including grilled beef filet, seasonal succotash, roasted vegetables, and the Hamby signature salad. Tuna tartare hors d’oeuvres and other thoughtfully crafted starters set the tone for an exquisite culinary experience. The elegant fare perfectly complemented the intimate, holiday-inspired atmosphere, creating a memorable celebration for their closest loved ones. The Venue: The celebration took place at The Rutledge Room, our flagship event space in the heart of Charleston’s historic Cannonborough-Elliottborough district.

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Highlighting intimate wedding catering moments

With Love, from Hamby: A Ravishing Rutledge Room Reception

Dear Readers, This month, we are delighted to spotlight a stunning wedding reception hosted at our flagship event venue, The Rutledge Room. With timeless elegance and thoughtful details, this celebration honored love, family and tradition in a setting that blended historic charm with modern sophistication. From the carefully curated menu to the beautifully styled décor, every element reflected the couple’s vision for an unforgettable day! With love, Candice Hudnall, President + Owner, Hamby Catering & Events The Couple: This month’s feature celebrates Maddie and Ben, whose love story inspired an elegant reception that felt deeply personal. Their commitment to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for their guests was brought to life with the intimate ambiance of The Rutledge Room, complemented by a menu full of culinary delights and a décor palette rich with greenery and delicate florals. It was our privilege to bring their dream reception to life. The Dining: The culinary experience was at the heart of Maddie and Ben’s reception. A delectable grazing table, featuring artisanal cheeses, cured meats and fresh fruits, greeted guests upon arrival. The menu also included standout bites like mini crab cakes, balsamic glazed strawberry caprese skewers, deviled eggs topped with candied bacon

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