Gratuity Guide: Navigating Tipping Etiquette for your Wedding Day

As a wedding planner, one of the most frequently asked questions I receive from my clients is about tipping vendors on their wedding day. Tipping is a common practice in the wedding industry, but knowing who to tip and how much can be confusing for many couples. In this blog post, I will break down which suppliers you should consider tipping, how much to tip, and provide some tips on proper tipping etiquette.

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to note that tipping is always a personal choice and should be based on the quality of service provided by each vendor. If a vendor goes above and beyond your expectations, it’s always a nice gesture to show your appreciation with a tip.

1. Catering Staff

The catering staff typically includes servers, bartenders, and chefs. It is customary to tip the catering staff, especially if they provide exceptional service. A common practice is to tip 15-20% of the total catering bill, which is often included in the contract as a service charge. If the service charge is not included, consider tipping each staff member individually. I would recommend one to two hours pay for a tip. For example 20 to 50 dollars/euros per staff member, if their service was great.

2. Wedding Planner

Your wedding planner is an invaluable resource throughout the planning process, so it’s a nice gesture to show your appreciation with a tip. Consider tipping your wedding planner 10-20% of their fee, depending on the level of service provided. The average pricing for wedding planning is between 4000 and 10000 dollars/euros depending on the service provided.

3. Hair and Makeup Artists (HAMU)

If you’re hiring a professional hair and makeup team for your wedding day, consider tipping each artist 15-20% of their fee. If the artists are part of a larger salon, tipping the salon coordinator to distribute among the team is a good practice. The average price for HAMU is between 400 to 500 dollars/Euros for the bride.

4. Officiant

If you have hired an officiant to perform your wedding ceremony, consider tipping them 15-20% of their fee. If your officiant is affiliated with a church or religious organization, a donation to the organization may be more appropriate. The average fee for an officiant is between 200 and 400 dollars/euros. If it is a friend performing this service, gift them something something personal like cuff-links or jewellery.

5. DJ/Band

Tipping your DJ or band is a nice gesture if they have provided exceptional entertainment for your reception. Consider tipping 10-15% of their fee, or more if they have gone above and beyond to keep the party going. Your average DJ is about 1500 and your average 5-piece band about 4000 dollars/euros.

6. Transportation

If you have hired a transportation service for your wedding day, consider tipping the driver 15-20% of their fee. If the transportation service includes a team of drivers, tipping the coordinator to distribute among the team is a good practice.

7. Photographer/Videographer

Tipping your photographer and videographer is not required, but if they have provided exceptional service and captured all the special moments of your day, consider tipping 10-15% of their fee. This is something you could send to them after you have received your photos.

8. Florist

Tipping your florist is not common practice, but if they have provided exceptional service and created stunning arrangements for your wedding day, consider sending a thank-you note or a small gift to show your appreciation.

9. Venue Staff

If your wedding is being held at a venue with on-site staff, consider tipping the venue coordinator or banquet manager for their help in coordinating your event. A tip of $100-$200 is a nice gesture to show your appreciation.

One of the ways to manage tipping is to preset everything in advance and have cash in envelopes with the person’s name on it. Then give it to your event planner or best man to tip. Now remember, if you don’t the service, don’t give the envelope to them.

In conclusion, tipping vendors on your wedding day is a personal choice and should be based on the level of service provided. It’s always a nice gesture to show your appreciation for the hard work and dedication of your vendors with a tip or a small token of thanks. Remember, tipping is not required, but it is a great way to show your gratitude and appreciation for the vendors who have helped make your wedding day a success. If you have any questions about tipping ask your event planner or email me. I’m always happy to help !

Happy Planning