Dear Readers,
You’re engaged! Once the champagne is popped and the news is shared, the next question is usually: Where do we start?
Wedding planning comes with a lot of decisions, but you don’t have to make them all at once. Start with the vendors who will shape the biggest pieces of your day and help everything else fall into place.
If you’re newly engaged and ready to start planning, these are the first five wedding vendors we recommend booking.
1. Book Your Wedding Planner
Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration or a full wedding weekend, a great planner is worth bringing in early.
Your planner can help establish a budget, recommend trusted vendors, create a timeline and guide the countless decisions ahead.
They also know the Charleston wedding landscape, from venues and rentals to transportation and logistics, making the entire process feel much more manageable. Having your planner in place first also means you have an expert by your side as you begin your venue search.
2. Your Wedding Venue
Next up: where are we celebrating?
Your venue shapes so much of your wedding, from your date and guest count to the overall style of the day.
In a destination market like Charleston, popular venues can book well in advance, especially during spring and fall. With your planner by your side, you can navigate your options and find the venue that best fits your celebration.
Once your venue and date are secured, the rest of your vendor team can begin falling into place.
3. Book Your Wedding Caterer
We may be a little biased, but your wedding caterer plays a pretty important role in the celebration.
The right catering team does much more than decide what’s for dinner. Your caterer helps shape the guest experience, from cocktail hour and passed hors d’oeuvres to dinner, dessert and late-night bites.
Booking your Charleston wedding caterer early also gives you time to create a menu that feels personal. Think Lowcountry favorites, family-inspired dishes, a beautiful raw bar or a favorite late-night snack.
Whatever you choose, your wedding menu should feel like part of your story.
4. Book Your Wedding Photographer
Your wedding photos are what allow you to revisit the celebration long after the last glass of champagne is poured.
Popular Charleston wedding photographers can book far in advance, so once you find someone whose style feels like you, it’s worth reaching out early.
When choosing a photographer, look beyond individual images and explore full wedding galleries. You’ll want someone who can capture everything from the smallest details and quiet moments to family portraits and a very full dance floor.
5. Book Your Band or DJ
Your wedding photos are what allow you to revisit the celebration long after the last glass of champagne is poured.
Popular Charleston wedding photographers can book far in advance, so once you find someone whose style feels like you, it’s worth reaching out early.
When choosing a photographer, look beyond individual images and explore full wedding galleries. You’ll want someone who can capture everything from the smallest details and quiet moments to family portraits and a very full dance floor.
What Wedding Vendors Should You Book First?
After getting engaged, we recommend starting with these five wedding vendors:
1. Wedding venue
2. Wedding planner
3. Wedding caterer
4. Wedding photographer
5. Wedding band or DJ
Securing these vendors early gives you a strong foundation before moving on to florals, rentals, stationery, cake, beauty, transportation, attire and all the personal touches that make your wedding yours.
Most importantly, enjoy it. You don’t have to plan your entire wedding the week you get engaged.
Start with the big five, then take it one decision at a time.
Planning a Wedding in Charleston, SC?
For nearly five decades, Hamby Catering & Events has helped couples celebrate in Charleston with thoughtful menus, gracious hospitality and Southern food that brings everyone to the table.
From welcome parties and rehearsal dinners to wedding receptions and farewell brunches, Hamby offers wedding catering throughout the Charleston area for every part of your wedding weekend. Click here to get started.
With love,
Candice Culbertson, President + Owner,
Hamby Catering & Events
Post photography credit:
Hero Photo: Aleece Sophia Photography
Wedding Venue: Natasha Coyle Photography
Creole Shrimp and Grits: Abby Jiu Photography
DJ: Aron Simons Photography