Tips About Tipping
Last week we talked about toasting protocol, however, another area of the wedding etiquette world that we get questions about all the time is whom to tip. The truth is you can tip whoever you please, and however much you desire. Here is a compilation of who to tip, how much, and who doesn’t necessarily have to be.
TIP EXPECTED:
Banquet Staff
This category consists of anyone from the Banquet Manager, Banquet Captain, servers, etc. Think of it this way, if you were going out to eat, you would tip your server wouldn’t you? A service charge is typically NOT a tip. Expect to tip 15% - 20% of the overall food costs.
Hair and Make Up Artist
Your hair and make up artist will 100% be expecting a little something. Just like you would at your regular hair salon, tip your on-site stylists. Anything from 10% - 20%.
Transportation
This one is kind of a given. Same idea; 15% - 20% of total bill will suffice.
Officiant
Believe it or not you should tip whomever is conducting your ceremony. If it is at a place of worship, then a donation will suffice. If it is a family member or friend, then the ball is in your court!
TIP NOT NECESSARILY EXPECTED:
Wedding Planner
It is not necessary to tip your wedding planner. However, if you feel they really did an incredible job, then throwing a little extra at the end of the reception, never hurts. Allowing your wedding planner to use your photos from the big day (of course with your photographers permission) for their online portfolio are usually the BEST tips any planner can get! Cash tip - up to your discretion, a small/fun gift, or we recommend the photos.
Musicians/Entertainment
Regardless if you have a band or Dj, totally your call! If you do decide to tip, feel free to hand each member of the band anything from $20-$25, and a Dj $100 at the end of the night.
Photographer/Videographer
Tips are not really expected from either of these vendors. If you do feel it is necessary to tip $100-$200 is fairly standard, or even a little gift/thank you to them can really show your appreciation.
Bartenders
This one is also kind of a given. Usually your guests will (or at least should) tip them all night themselves. If you are hosting your bar, sometimes guests do not necessarily bring cash or think to tip. We leave this one up to you!
Florist
Your florist will not expect a tip from you. A nice thank you in the mail, even a little gift card if you prefer, is more than enough!
Once again, this is all completely up to you, it is YOUR wedding. Some other vendors may also have other opinions when it comes to tipping. However, this is what we feel is a solid foundation for those who may need a little direction. We would love to answer any of your tipping questions! Contact us today for a complimentary consultation, so we can learn about all the details of your big day!