Tipping wedding vendors is a common practice to show appreciation for their hard work and to reward excellent service that made your wedding day perfect. The amount you tip depends on the type of vendor, the level of service provided, and your budget. Here's a guide on how to approach tipping different wedding vendors:
1. Catering & Food Service Staff
Who to Tip: Catering staff, servers, and bartenders.
Amount: Typically, 15-20% of the catering bill, or $2-4 per guest. If the tip is included in the contract, no additional tip is necessary, but if it's not, this range is standard. It can be given directly to the catering manager or the staff, depending on the contract.
2. Wedding Planner/Coordinator
Who to Tip: Your day-of coordinator or full-service wedding planner.
Amount: 10-20% of the planner's fee. This can range from $100-$500 or more depending on the level of service and the size of your wedding. Often given at the end of the wedding day, or via a personal check or cash after the event.
3. Hair and Makeup Artists
Who to Tip: The hair stylist and makeup artist.
Amount: 15-20% of the total service cost. This can be handed over in cash or through a check on the wedding day.
4. Photographer/Videographer
Who to Tip: The photographer or videographer, or their assistants.
Amount: Tipping isn’t required, but it is appreciated if they’ve gone above and beyond. A tip of $50-$200 per vendor is typical. Directly to the photographer or videographer, either at the wedding or after the event.
5. DJ or Band
Who to Tip: The DJ, band, or musicians performing at the wedding.
Amount: $50-$150 for a DJ, and $20-$50 per band member (or $100-$500 total for the group). Tip the DJ or band directly at the end of the reception, or give it to the band leader.
6. Officiant
Who to Tip: The officiant, whether they are religious or secular.
Amount: A typical tip is $50-$100. If the officiant is a friend or family member performing the ceremony, a tip is not expected, but a donation to their church or charity can be a kind gesture. Hand it to them in person or mail a thank-you card with the tip inside after the event.
7. Transportation (Drivers)
Who to Tip: The driver(s) who transport the bridal party, guests, or couple.
Amount: $50-$100 per driver. Often, gratuity is included in the transportation contract, but if not, it’s appropriate to give it to the driver in cash on the day.
8. Florist
Who to Tip: Florists are typically not tipped, as their service fee is included in the contract.
Amount: Tipping isn't customary, but if a florist goes above and beyond, a tip of $50-$100 is a nice gesture. Hand it directly or send a thank-you note, which is a lovely gesture.
9. Other Vendors (Cake, Rentals, etc.)
Who to Tip: Vendors like cake designers, rental companies, and other service providers.
Amount: These vendors generally do not expect tips unless they have gone above and beyond. A tip of $50-$100 is a good range. Hand it directly or leave it with the wedding planner to distribute.
General Tips:
Inclusion in contracts: Some vendors may include a service charge in their contracts, especially catering and event planning services. Be sure to check for any “gratuity included” statements.
Budget: If tipping several vendors isn’t within your budget, prioritize tipping those who provide direct and personal services, such as the planner, photographer, and hair & makeup artists.
Personalized Gifts: If you prefer not to tip cash, a thoughtful thank-you note or a small gift is always a good alternative.
Tipping is ultimately about expressing gratitude for exceptional service, and while it's not mandatory, it is a lovely way to show your appreciation for the hard work that goes into making your wedding day, the day you dreamed of.
