Your bank account has already suffered during the planning process, so the idea of shelling out more dough to tip your wedding vendors day-of may seem baffling. While not all vendors expect a service charge, there is a proper protocol, so before you stuff the envelopes, check out our tipping cheat sheet:
EXPECTED
Hair stylist/makeup artist: If you go to the salon, you’re expected to tip, as the salon is making the money and not the individual. However, if the stylist/artist comes to you, it’s merely appreciated.
How much: 15-20 percent
Driver: Whether you have a limo whisking you and your ‘maids around for the beauty prepping, a party bus to transport guests, or a carriage carrying you and your new wife toward honeymoon bliss, you are expected to tip the driver if a service charge is not included in your contract.
How much: 15-20 percent
Valet Parking Attendants: Estimate 50 cents to a dollar per car and be sure to post a sign so guests know that gratuity is being taken care of.
How much: $.50 to $1.00 per car
Officiant: If your officiant is of religious affiliation, then a donation to that institution is proper protocol. If you’re using a civil official, no tip is required.
How much: $100-$500 to religious institution
Set-Up Staff: A lot of work goes into setting up your dream wedding so slip a few dollars to those who are putting in the manual labor of delivery and setting up the tents, tables, chairs, etc.
How much: $5-$10 per person
Wait Staff: Check your contract, as most catering companies include a service fee. If not, tip 15 percent of the total catering bill to be divided amongst the staff.
How much: 15 percent of total catering bill
Bartenders: Again, tip only if it’s not already included.
How much: 10 percent of total liquor bill
Restroom and/or Coatroom Attendants: Guests will instinctually want to tip, so be sure to post that gratuity has already been prearranged.
How much: $.50 to $1 per guest.
OPTIONAL
Photographer/Videographer: Their fees are usually sufficient; however, if the photographer or videographer does not own the studio, a tip to those documenting your day is appreciated.
How much: $50-$100
Band/DJ: Whether it’s a DJ or 12-piece brass band that gets guests on the dance floor, music can make or break a reception. Though tipping is optional, it’s appreciated for a high-quality job, especially if the musician/DJ is a member of a larger company.
How much: $20-$25 per musician; $50-$100 for DJs
Wedding Planner: They turned your vision into reality, but they’re also getting paid to do so, so don’t feel obligated to tip. However, if yours did an exceptional job and you want to show a token of appreciation, a tip or gift is welcome.
How much: $200-$500 or a nice gift.
Florist: While there is no need to tip the florist, you may opt to tip the staff who deliver and set-up.
How much: $10-$20 per person
Cake Designer: As with the florist, no need to tip for the actual design, but delivery and set-up is appreciated.
How much: $10
Photo: Real Weddings Nick and Paul, photography by Long Haul Photo
