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Tipping Guide for Wedding Vendors

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Tipping Guide for Wedding Vendors

Tipping is a nice way to show appreciation for the hard work wedding vendors put in. However, the amount can vary based on factors like the vendor’s service, the total cost of their work, and the level of personalization. Here’s a general guide on who to tip and how much, though keep in mind that these amounts can be adjusted based on your budget and the quality of service you received.

1. Wedding Planner/Coordinator

  • Tip Amount: Typically 10-20% of their total fee.
  • When to Tip: If you feel the planner went above and beyond in organizing your wedding, you can tip them a percentage of their fee or a flat amount (e.g., $100-$500).
  • Alternative: Some planners may prefer a thoughtful gift or a handwritten note.

2. Hair and Makeup Artists

  • Tip Amount: 15-20% of the service cost.
  • When to Tip: On the day of the wedding, after the services are rendered. If the artist is part of a larger team, it’s common to tip the head artist directly and ask them to distribute among the team.

3. Photographer and Videographer

  • Tip Amount: $50-$200 per person (depending on how many photographers/videographers are working your wedding).
  • When to Tip: If you have an agreement where the tip is not included in the total fee (check your contract), then this is typically given on the wedding day or after they deliver your photos/video.

4. DJ/Entertainment

  • Tip Amount: $50-$200 depending on the size of your wedding and the DJ’s involvement.
  • When to Tip: At the end of the reception, after the performance. Again, this is often given directly to the DJ or band leader.

5. Caterers

  • Tip Amount: 10-20% of the total catering bill or $20-$50 per server.
  • When to Tip: Caterers often include a service charge in the final bill, but if it’s not included, tipping directly is appreciated. If you’re working with an event manager or wait staff, consider tipping them separately.

6. Officiant

  • Tip Amount: $50-$100 (or a donation to their church or cause).
  • When to Tip: After the ceremony, or you can provide a donation to their church if they are a religious officiant.

7. Florist

  • Tip Amount: 10-15% of the total cost of the flowers.
  • When to Tip: If they go above and beyond, tipping can be a great gesture. If the florist is part of a larger company, the tip might go to the team.

8. Transportation (Limo, Car Service)

  • Tip Amount: 15-20% of the total bill.
  • When to Tip: Drivers are often tipped at the end of their service, so be sure to bring cash or pre-arrange the tip with the transportation company.

9. Bakers (Cake Designer)

  • Tip Amount: $50-$100.
  • When to Tip: If the cake designer is delivering the cake themselves, it’s customary to tip them at delivery.

10. Reception Staff (Servers, Bartenders, etc.)

  • Tip Amount: $20-$50 per person (or 15-20% of the bar bill for bartenders).
  • When to Tip: At the end of the night, either give individual tips or give one large tip to the manager and ask them to distribute it.

11. Valets

  • Tip Amount: $1-$2 per car.
  • When to Tip: As guests arrive, you can hand the valet tips either in bulk or per car, depending on your preference.

12. Bathroom Attendants (if applicable)

  • Tip Amount: $1-$2 per guest.
  • When to Tip: It’s common to give this tip at the end of the night as a thank-you for keeping the restrooms tidy.

13. Rentals (if they are setting up and taking down)

  • Tip Amount: $50-$150 depending on the size of the rental company and their involvement.
  • When to Tip: At the end of the event when everything is cleaned up and packed away.

General Tipping Guidelines

  • Check Contracts: Some vendors may already include gratuity in their fees, especially for catering or banquet staff. Always review your contracts to see if gratuity has already been included.
  • Cash or Check: If you’re giving tips directly, always use cash or a personal check for the vendors. This avoids confusion and ensures the money goes directly to them.
  • Gift Ideas: For vendors you’re really happy with, a thoughtful gift or a handwritten note of appreciation can be a nice addition to the tip.

Special Notes

  • Your Budget: If you’re working with a tight budget, prioritize tipping vendors who provided the most significant services or had a big impact on your big day.
  • Personalized Tipping: Remember that the amount you tip can reflect the quality of service you received, but it’s always appreciated if you can add a little extra for exceptional service.

Planning for tips in advance can make the wedding day smoother, ensuring that vendors feel appreciated for their hard work.