Tips and Gratuities can be an awkward thing when it comes to your wedding. Who is expecting one? How much should it be? Will they be offended if they don’t get one? It can be a stressful thing to think about, especially when you’re getting close and the budget is tight.
But don’t worry! We have compiled a list of vendors and suggested amounts that you can use as a guide when thinking about tips and gratuities.
Ceremony Vendors:
Officiant: Always cover their travel expenses (flight/hotel etc.). Additionally, a personal note and $50-$100 gift is a nice touch depending on the relationship you have with this person.
Ceremony Musicians (if separate from reception musicians): You can tip a flat rate of 15% of the total payment, or $5-$20 per person.
Reception Vendors:
Bartenders: Are usually tipped as a group at 15% of total liquor bill
Catering: The headwaiter/catering manager should receive 1 - 3% of the contracted food bill. Individual waiters should each receive about $20 or more.
DJ: 15% of the total payment.
Musicians: $25 - $50 per musician. This tip is larger than the ceremony per-person because they are playing for a longer time.
Drivers or chauffeurs: 15% of the total payment.
Valet: Also tipped as a group at 15% of the total payment.
Other Professional Services
Hair / Make-up: 20% of the fee
Florist, Photographer, Videographer, On-Site Coordinators: It is not customary to tip these vendors but we have seen an increase in these vendors being tipped so they aren’t left out. After all, it is a team effort to bring your wedding vision to life!
The Bottom Line: Tips of any amount are never expected, but always appreciated.
**Always always always make sure that the tip/gratuity is not included in your contract or invoice total!