Founded in 1979, Hamby Catering & Events is Charleston’s oldest and most-celebrated caterer. What started as a favor to cater the wedding of a friend’s daughter morphed into an iconic Lowcountry institution. The roots of hospitality, grace, and of course, delicious cuisine, that were planted by Mrs. Fran Hamby, the company’s founder, have grown and shaped the business over the last 45 successful years.

Over four storied decades, Hamby Catering has served the likes of four presidents and Oprah Winfrey, as well as outfitting some of the largest events in Charleston with their legendary fare. The City of Charleston has even bequeathed August 2 (acknowledged as the “birthday of Hamby”) Hamby Catering & Events Day. The words “timeless,” “Southern” and “inventive” define Hamby’s offerings, ranging from light brunch bites to multiple course meals. Hamby has also been honored with numerous awards, including being named Best Catering Company eight years in a row, as voted by the readers of Charleston’s local paper, The Post & Courier, and has been named to The Knot’s Hall of Fame and featured as one of the Best places to work by shiftNOW.

In 2017, after seven years with the company, Candice Hudnall stepped up to oversee all operations of Hamby with her father, Wayne Culbertson. This duo marked the second, multi-generational ownership of Hamby Catering, keeping the heart and tradition of the brand rooted in its service.

Hamby Catering & Events prides itself on its flexible and dynamic approach. Knowing that one size does not fit all when it comes an event’s catering needs, Hamby Catering’s event producers tailor all aspects of the service and operations to each occasion. And as the city’s oldest caterer, Hamby is adept at navigating even the most historic and eclectic settings, as well as crowds of up to 8,000 guests.

President and Owner Candice Hudnall surprisingly touts the company’s response and operations during the COVID-19 pandemic as one of Hamby Catering’s biggest accomplishments. Hamby Catering’s brick and mortar storefront, The Market at Hamby, carried the company through the tumultuous time and has since become a core pillar of their revenue. The Market’s daily offerings of Hamby Catering’s famous tea sandwiches, take-and-bake casseroles, family meals to-go and more not only currently provide a taste of the iconic brand, but also served as a successful revenue stream during the pandemic. Due to its success, Hamby Catering was the only catering business in Charleston that didn’t have to cease operations at any time during the COVID-19 crisis.

In the Fall of 2023, Hamby Catering further extended its legacy by launching their flagship venue, The Rutledge Room, in downtown Charleston. With just over 3,000 square feet of event space, the venue is intimate in nature yet robust in offerings. As event people, the Hamby Catering and Events team curated every detail of the space to be of maximum benefit to their guests.