The Ultimate Guide to Baltimore Wedding Vendors: Who You Really Need
- jessheddings
- Mar 20
- 6 min read
Updated: Mar 24
Planning a Baltimore wedding is like putting together a puzzle—each piece plays a role in creating the big picture. As the venue manager here at Island View Waterfront, just 15 minuted from Baltimore, I’ve worked with all kinds of couples, from the ultra-organized planners to those who just want to show up and enjoy the day. One of the biggest questions I get is: What vendors do I actually need for my wedding?
At Island View Waterfront, we believe that planning your waterfront wedding should be as stress-free as possible. That’s why we’ve put together a curated vendor list featuring trusted professionals who know our outdoor wedding venue inside and out. Whether you need a fantastic caterer, a talented florist, or a Baltimore DJ who knows how to keep the dance floor packed, we’ve done the research for you.
Ready to start planning? Let’s dive into the must-have vendors for your big day!
The Essential Wedding Vendors
These are the Baltimore vendors that most couples book, and for good reason. They help ensure your wedding day runs smoothly and that you and your guests have the best experience possible.
1. Wedding Planner or Coordinator
Do you need one? If you don’t want to spend your wedding day answering questions about table settings or vendor arrivals, then yes.
A full-service planner will help with everything from the initial design to final execution, while a day-of coordinator ensures things run smoothly on the big day. Many of our couples at Island View choose at least a day-of coordinator so they can relax and enjoy their wedding.
At Island View Waterfront, we also have a venue manager dedicated to the execution of your vision. We work with you months in advance to gather details, create a timeline, floorplan, and lineup—ensuring that every aspect of your wedding runs seamlessly.
On the day of your wedding, we manage vendor arrivals, departures, and needs, so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Plus, our devoted staff members are always on-site when you are, making sure everything goes smoothly.
2. Maryland Caterer
Unless you're planning an intimate backyard wedding with homemade food, you’ll need a caterer. Many venues (including ours) require professional catering for food safety and logistics.
There are two main types of caterers: full-service caterers and drop-off caterers.
Full-service caterers handle everything from cooking and plating to serving, setup, and cleanup—ensuring a seamless dining experience for you and your guests.
Drop-off caterers, on the other hand, simply deliver the food, leaving setup, serving, and cleanup to you or your hired staff.
For weddings, full-service catering is the way to go. The last thing you want on your big day is to worry about setting up food stations, keeping dishes warm, or cleaning up at the end of the night. Our curated vendor list includes experienced full-service caterers who can create everything from traditional Maryland crab feasts to elegant plated dinners—so you can focus on celebrating.
3. Baltimore Photographer & Videographer
These two go hand in hand. A photographer captures still moments, while a videographer tells the full story of your day. If you have to choose one due to budget, go for a photographer. But if your budget allows, having a wedding film to look back on is priceless.
4. Maryland DJ or Band
Music sets the tone for your wedding, from the ceremony processional to the last dance of the night. A DJ offers versatility and energy, while a live band brings a unique vibe. Either way, a professional is a must—you don’t want awkward silences or a choppy playlist. We work with top-notch DJs and bands who know how to keep the party going at Island View.
5. Maryland Florist
Flowers add color, texture, and personality to your wedding. Whether you want an elaborate floral installation or simple bouquets, a florist can bring your vision to life. If you’re on a budget, you can mix professional florals with DIY arrangements for a cost-effective approach. Our recommended florists can help create stunning arrangements tailored to your style and venue setting.
6. Officiant
You can’t get legally married without one! Whether you choose a religious leader, a professional officiant, or a friend who gets ordained online, make sure they’re comfortable speaking in front of a crowd and personalizing your ceremony.
7. Hair & Makeup Artist
Even if you’re low-maintenance, professional hair and makeup can make a big difference in photos and video. Plus, it's a great way to feel pampered on your wedding day.
The Optional (But Worth Considering) Vendors
These vendors aren’t must-haves, but they can elevate your wedding experience and reduce stress.
8. Local Rental Company
If your wedding venue doesn’t provide tables, chairs, linens, or décor, a rental company is essential. Since Island View Waterfront includes tables & chairs, we work with fantastic local rental companies who can provide everything from elegant tablescapes to tents for an outdoor ceremony.
9. Stationery Designer
If you love the idea of custom wedding invitations, menus, and signage, a stationery designer can help bring your vision to life. If you’re more budget-conscious, online options like Canva work well, too.
10. Local Cake or Dessert Baker
Whether you’re a traditional wedding cake couple or prefer a dessert table with cookies and pies, a professional baker ensures your sweet treats taste as good as they look.
11. Wedding Transportation
If you have guests coming from out of town, shuttle service can make logistics easier. Some couples also book a getaway car for a fun exit at the end of the night.
12. Specialty Entertainment
Want to surprise your guests? Consider adding a photo booth, live painter, cigar bar, or even a fireworks display for a memorable touch.
How to Choose the Right Vendors
Once you’ve decided which vendors you need, how do you choose the right ones?
Here’s my best advice:
Start with your venue’s recommendations. We work with incredible vendors who know our space well, making setup and coordination seamless.
Read reviews and ask for referrals. Past couples’ experiences can give you insight into what it’s like to work with a vendor.
Meet in person or via video chat. Personality and professionalism matter! You’ll be working closely with these vendors, so it’s important to feel comfortable with them.
Prioritize your budget. Allocate more of your budget to high-impact vendors (like catering and photography) and find creative ways to save on others.
The best wedding moments happen when you take a second to soak it all in.
Let’s Make Your Wedding Unforgettable
At the end of the day, your wedding vendors should make your life easier, not more stressful. Surround yourself with a team you trust, and you’ll be able to fully enjoy your celebration. If you’re planning a wedding at Island View Waterfront and need vendor recommendations, I’m happy to share our curated list of trusted professionals.
Let’s make your wedding day unforgettable!
Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll dive into everything you need to know about choosing the perfect wedding planner!
Island View Waterfront offers a flexible approach to wedding planning, allowing you to customize your package to suit your needs and budget.
Island View Waterfront is committed to making your dream celebration a reality.
Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning your unforgettable wedding or event.
Wedding Website: www.islandviewwaterfrontevents.net
Instagram: Island View Waterfront Venue, Essex Maryland
About us: Island View Waterfront is an independent, locally-owned wedding venue near Baltimore Maryland. We have been family owned and operated since 1968. What started as a small bar and marina (read the history here), we are proud to be the current stewards of this waterfront property on the Chesapeake Bay.
When you choose an independent, locally owned venue like ours, you work directly with the owner, and third generation operator Jessica, throughout your entire wedding planning process!
We are committed to supporting other locally owned wedding venues around the country. A shout-out to the following venues who are offering their continued support and encouragement:
Photos in this blog taken by: Richard and Tara Photography - https://www.richardandtara.com/
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