It really depends on your tastes. Oak Hill, Carter and Holmes, and Orchids by Hausermann are popular. Some more boutique growers are good too like Sunset Valley Orchid, Miranda's Orchids, Waldor, etc. And then there are some lesser known hidden gems like Jewell Orchids & Marble Branch Farms. That should get you off to a good start. Tell your spending cash good-bye for me.
I bought my three new catts at Ironwood eststes In North carolina in preson but they have a web site also.
Im very happy with them so far and have had great new growth so far ....maybe a little high on the price but Im new and didnt think so really three chids of decent size for $69 One I think will bloom next year for sure one that might and one that will probably take two years.
I really appreciate your help. I am starting out and with no orchids yet have spent $750 just getting things ready for them. Don't want to kill any yet.
Don't forget the Hawaii vendors! H&R is probably the best for both species and hybrids, Exotic Orchids of Maui is a close runner up for species and hybrids and then Tropical Orchid Farm has some cool species. Though I've never ordered from them, Carmela Orchids is supposed to have some really nice hybrids and plants for cheap.