Here's a tip!

In the last few months I have gotten the same question a number of times... who do I tip and what is expected?

This is a great question! Tipping vendors for their services can be difficult especially when you probably feel that are you spending a lot of money already. But, each vendor is different and what is expected is really up to you.

Below is a guideline to tipping just to help you out. Remember, the amount you give is honestly up to you and your budget and the below is based on some research and my opinion. As a rule of thumb, all tips should be given in cash and in a separate envelope. That way, it is clear that this is a separate "thank you" dollar amount for that vendor alone. Tips should also be given before the vendor leaves so you can manage what you gave and acknowledge the job they did for you. Another idea is to put the cash in a "thank you" card and to include a nice note. You can never go wrong showing more appreciation!

The ones you should tip:

Limousine/Bus Drivers: 10% - 15% is usually acceptable. $150 max for this is more than acceptable so in case your bill is larger, don't feel that you should exceed this amount.

Wait Staff: Usually the tip is already included in your contract. Be sure to check this. If so, no tip is required. If it is not included, 15% is acceptable but in my opinion, not necessary.

Bartender: Same rule applies as the wait staff. Usually there is a jar for extra tips for your guests to contribute if they feel led. If it is not included in your contract, 10% is more than enough.

Hair stylist/Makeup artists: Yes! For sure tip these people. They usually work on base + commission and if you are a bride, you know this is one of the most important vendors for your day! :) 15% would be a nice tip and more if you feel they did an exceptional job.

DJ/Band: I would tip them between $50 - $100.

Optional tipping:

Banquet Hall or Catering Manager: This is optional based on how great of a job they did and how involved they have been. I would suggest between $50 - $100.

Photographer & Videographer: If these vendors own their company then I would say tipping is optional. However, if you have a great photographer, a gift of money is always nice.

Officiant: Generally you just pay a fee and that's it. However, for my wedding we were very close to our Pastor and he mentored us for a year before our wedding so we tipped him as a thank you. But again, this depends on your experience.

Florist: I would tip them an extra $5 per delivery location. No more than $50.

Cake Designer/Baker: I would say this is totally optional. A lot of venues include the cake as a part of your F&B (food and beverage) minimum. If that's the case, I would say don't feel you need to tip.



I hope this gives you some good guidelines on tipping etiquette! Again, this is also based on your preference. Good luck!


Love,
Kristin