A question we are most asked is “How much should I tip wedding vendors?”
As planners and coordinators, we are always happy to provide proper wedding etiquette information to our clients.
One of the most frequent questions we get asked by brides is how much to tip wedding vendors. It is important to remember that most of the vendors you will use for your wedding are a part of the service industry, and as with any service, tips are greatly recommended and appreciated. However, it can get confusing on just exactly who to tip and what is appropriate. Below is a breakdown by vendor.
Catering (Waitstaff & Bartenders)
When going over the contract with your caterer and bartending service, make sure to look for and/or ask if gratuity for the staff is included. While most of the time it is, it is customary to tip 15-20% of the bill if not. If you feel that the waitstaff went above and beyond, an additional $20-$50 per person at the end of the night is recommended.
Hair & Makeup
Just as you would tip your regular hairstylist, tipping your hair and makeup artists 15-20% of the bill is recommended. Tip after they have completed the service.
Photographer & Videographer
Tipping is not typically expected or required for your photographer and videographer, however, a personal gift or thank you note would be a kind gesture. We always love reviews!
Officiant
It is customary to tip $100+ to your officiant if they did not receive payment. If the officiant will not accept a tip or payment, a gift and/or thank you note is highly recommended. This should be given to them the night of the rehearsal.
Planner/Coordinator
Wedding planners won’t expect anything, however, if you feel as if your coordinator went above and beyond to make your special day go smoothly, 10-20% or a nice gift is greatly appreciated. Reviews or referrals are the best tip a wedding vendor can receive as well!
Florist, Baker/Cake Provider, Venue Coordinator
A thank you note is typically acceptable for these vendors. If you were overly pleased with their service, 10% is an adequate tip.
Delivery & Set Up Staff
It is a very kind gesture to tip anyone helping with set-up and breakdown $15-$20; however, it is not necessary, especially if it is included in the cost per your contract. Delivery fees are sometimes provided to the drivers and delivery staff, and it is appropriate to ask the person who created your contract to be sure!
Ceremony Musicians
If you have ceremony musicians, it is common to tip 15% of total bill or $20 per musician.
DJ or Band
It is common to tip your band $40-$100 per musician and your DJ between $50 and $200.
Transportation
At the end of the last ride, it is customary to tip your driver 15-20%.
It is customary to tip wedding vendors by putting them in labeled envelopes and passing them out at the end of the night. Wedding coordinators, such as ourselves, are happy to pass out tips to the appropriate parties. Along with tips, a handwritten note from the bride and groom or the bride’s family, as well as a review of services on social media or the company’s website is just as appreciated. For other wedding etiquette questions, feel free to contact us!
