The tipping point!
One of the most dreaded questions that I get asked by my clients is, “Are we supposed to tip our vendors?” It’s one of those awkward moments for me because I almost feel like they are asking if they need to tip me. But part of starting this diary was to not only communicate the good but the bad and the ugly right? Or shall I say “the uncomfortable?”
Look, I get it, weddings are expensive. And now on top of that, you hear that you need to tip your vendors. But in short, the answer is no, you don’t have to tip anyone if you don’t want to. None of us expect to be tipped (well maybe some do because I can’t speak for the entire wedding vendor world) but if it does happen, it’s a nice gesture that’s always appreciated.
I let my clients know that it’s always optional. Or if they feel like someone went above and beyond to make their day special then they might consider giving a tip. So, if you are considering tipping your wedding vendors, what’s a good guideline? Remember, keyword “guideline!”
- Band ~ $15 – $25 per musician
- Bartenders ~ 10% of the total liquor bill to be split among them if more than one
- Caterer ~ If you are already paying a service charge or gratuity, no need to tip, but if not, then 15% – 20% of the food bill
- DJ ~ $50 – $150
- Delivery Staff (for those who deliver your cake or florals) ~ $5 to $20 per person
- Hair and Makeup Artist ~ 15% – 20% just as you would in a hair salon
- Photographer/Videographer ~ $50 – $200
- Venue Set-Up Staff ~ $25 – $50 I think they are one of the most overlooked of the gang, they have such a labor-intensive job and often don’t get recognized for it
- Wedding Transportation ~ 15% – 20% of the total bill
- Wedding Ceremony Officiant (that you hire, not a friend that you have asked to officiate the wedding ceremony) ~ $50 – $100
- Wedding Ceremony Officiant that is affiliated with a house of worship, can be given a donation
What are other options instead of money?
- I always like receiving a handwritten thank you note in the mail as we don’t see this often enough these days since our world has become so electronic.
- A positive review on Yelp, Google, WeddingWire, or The Knot
- A small gift or gift card…I received some beautiful gifts from my past clients and every time I use that purple sealskin wallet or that glassybaby candle it reminds me of them!
Hopefully, I’ve given you some guidance on this subject, as well as some alternatives to saying “thank you” that fits every kind of wedding budget. Aaaand that’s a wrap, I’m out!