Step-by-Step Vendor Booking Checklist for Weddings in Greenville South Carolina

You just got engaged. Now you’re staring at Pinterest wondering how to make it real.
I’ve worked with hundreds of couples in Greenville, SC. The secret isn’t having lots of time or money. It’s having a good plan.
I’ve watched couples stress about booking vendors. Some book their DJ before their venue. That’s backwards. Others wait too long to get their photographer. They end up settling for someone they don’t love.
Let’s fix that right now. This wedding vendor checklist for Greenville SC will keep you organized. You’ll stay on budget and feel excited instead of stressed.

Why Timing Matters in Greenville’s Wedding Scene

Greenville has become a hot spot for couples. They come from all over the Southeast. Our venues like Gassaway Mansion, Edingburg West, Avenue and Judsson Mill are stunning. Plus our food scene is incredible.

But this popularity means vendors book up fast. This happens during peak season from April through October. I’ve seen couples miss out on their dream team. They didn’t know when to book wedding vendors Greenville SC style.

12+ Months Before: The Foundation Phase

This is where it all starts. Most couples feel overwhelmed here. Take a deep breath. We’ve got this.

Lock Down Your Venue First

Your venue determines everything else. Your date, guest count, and style all depend on it. Venues like The Venue at Falls Park book 12-18 months out.

Pro tip: Saturday evenings in May and October book first. Consider Friday evenings or Sunday afternoons. You’ll get better availability and pricing.

Hire Your Wedding Planner

I work with some great planners in Greenville. Teams like Affluent Affairs, Crystal Williams Events, Hope Moody, Weddings with Ruchi know the good vendors. A good planner steers you toward the right people.

Book Your Photographer/Videographer

Your Greenville wedding photographer should be booked early. Right after your venue. We book up 12-18 months ahead. More important, we become part of your planning team.

I make vendor recommendations to couples all the time. I help fix timeline issues too. We’re not just there for pretty pictures. We’re your day-of helpers who’ve seen everything.

Want to see what moments you can’t miss? Check out my guide on must-have wedding photos for your Greenville SC wedding day.

10-12 Months Before: The Flavor and Vibe Phase

Your big three are locked in. Now it’s time to book wedding vendors in order of importance.

Get Your Caterer

Many Greenville venues don’t have in-house catering. This makes booking a caterer important. Popular ones like Smoke on the Water book up quickly.

Real talk: Schedule tastings right away. You need to pick your menu. Plus tastings are fun. It’s like delicious homework.

Find Your Florist

Greenville has talented florists who know local blooms. Magnolias and gardenias create stunning arrangements. They feel Southern and beautiful.

Insider secret: Ask about seasonal options. Those Pinterest peonies you love cost a lot. They wilt in July heat too. A good local florist suggests beautiful alternatives. They photograph well and cost less.

Book Your Entertainment

Pick between a live band or DJ. Book early. The best entertainers in Greenville get taken quickly. You want someone who reads the room well.

8-10 Months Before: The Pretty Details Phase

Planning gets fun now. You focus on details that make your wedding yours.

Hair and Makeup Team

Book your glam squad and schedule a trial run. I’ve photographed hundreds of brides. The ones who do trials always look more confident.

From behind the camera: The best artists know how their work photographs. Ask to see their portfolio. Look for work that photos well, not just what looks good in person.

Stationery and Invitations

Time to make those save-the-dates official. Your stationery sets the tone for everything. Pick someone whose style matches your vision.

Wedding Attire

Ladies, order that dress now. Alterations take time. You don’t want stress about fit close to your wedding. Guys, start thinking about your look too.

6-8 Months Before: The Sweet Finishing Touches

Your Wedding Cake

Cake tastings are mandatory fun, right? Book your baker and dream about flavors. Greenville’s best bakers like Signature Desserts book months ahead.

Decor and Rentals

This covers linens, lounge furniture, and those Instagram signs. Companies like EventWorks in Greenville have gorgeous options. Popular items book early.

Lighting and Special Effects

Good lighting can change any space. In photography terms, it’s everything. String lights create romance. Uplighting highlights your venue’s beauty. Book your lighting team early.

2-3 Months Before: The Final Countdown Begins

Final Vendor Meetings

This is when your wedding planning timeline South Carolina style comes together. Meet with everyone to confirm details. Review timelines and make sure everyone agrees.

Photographer’s view: I create your detailed timeline now. I share it with all your vendors. It’s like leading an orchestra. Everyone needs to know their part.

Finish All the Music

Share your must-play and don’t-play lists with your DJ or band. Include songs for your ceremony walk, first dance, and special moments.

Create Your Seating Chart

Yes, it’s boring. Yes, someone will have feelings about their seat. Do it anyway. Do it early so you’re not stressed the week of your wedding.

1 Month Before: The Home Stretch

Final Dress Fitting

Get that dress fitted perfectly and pick it up. Don’t wait until the last minute. I’ve seen too many brides stressed about alterations wedding week.

Share Your Timeline

Give that detailed timeline to everyone. Vendors, wedding party, and family all need it. The more people who know the plan, the smoother things run.

Create Your Emergency Kit

Pack the basics:

Sewing kit
Stain remover
Comfortable shoes
Snacks
Phone chargers
Anything else that helps you feel ready

1 Week Before: You’re Almost There

Confirm Everything with Everyone

Talk to all your vendors. Confirm arrival times, setup details, and any last changes.

Pack for Your Honeymoon

Do this early so you’re not rushing after your reception. Future you will thank present you for being organized.

Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner

Practice makes perfect. Walk through your ceremony. Make sure everyone knows where to stand and when to walk. Then celebrate with the people you love most.

The Day Before: Breathe and Trust Your Team

You’ve done the work. You’ve hired amazing vendors. Now trust them and focus on the joy of what’s about to happen.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Planning a wedding in Greenville, SC doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With this timeline, you’ll get the best vendors. You’ll avoid last-minute panic. You’ll actually enjoy creating your perfect day.

Every vendor you hire should feel like part of your team. The best wedding vendors in Greenville know their job. They make your day smooth and stress-free. You can focus on what really matters. Celebrating your love story.

Ready to check photographer off your list? I’d love to chat about your vision. We can talk about how to capture every beautiful moment of your Greenville wedding. Let’s discuss your date and start planning something amazing together.

Need help building your vendor dream team? I’ve worked with Greenville’s best wedding pros for years. I have recommendations for every budget and style. Let’s grab coffee and talk about making your wedding planning smooth.