The Ultimate Guide to Tipping
When and How to Say Thank You to Your Wedding Vendors
Planning a wedding is no small feat, and as your big day approaches, you’re likely feeling immense gratitude for the vendors who have helped bring your vision to life. But when it comes to showing your appreciation, you might be wondering about the best way to do so. Should you tip your vendors? If so, how much and when? What if your vendors are fairly priced and gratuity isn’t expected? Here’s a guide to navigating this important aspect of wedding planning.
When to Consider Gratuity
Tipping is a customary practice in the service industry, but when it comes to weddings, the lines can blur. Not all vendors expect a tip, especially if their services are fairly priced and they’ve communicated that gratuity isn’t necessary. However, if a vendor has gone above and beyond your expectations, a tip can be a wonderful way to show your appreciation.
Consider tipping when:
- The vendor provided exceptional service or went out of their way to accommodate last-minute changes.
- The vendor played a crucial role in making your day run smoothly.
- You felt that the vendor’s service far exceeded what was outlined in the contract.
When gratuity isn’t expected:
- Some vendors, like photographers or videographers, might charge premium rates where gratuity is not anticipated.
- Certain companies may include a service charge in their contracts, covering gratuity for their staff.
In cases where tipping isn’t necessary or expected, consider offering a heartfelt gift, an excellent review, or referrals. These gestures can be just as valuable as cash, helping vendors grow their business and spreading the word about their exceptional service.
How to Present Gratuity
Cash is generally the preferred method for tipping wedding vendors. It’s straightforward, easily distributed, and allows vendors to feel the immediate appreciation of their hard work. To ensure your gratuities are handled professionally and without added stress on your wedding day, follow these steps:
- Prepare in Advance: Before the wedding, decide which vendors you’ll be tipping and how much. Place the cash in a sealed envelope and include a thank you card or note expressing your gratitude. This personal touch can mean the world to someone who’s worked hard to make your day special.
- Enlist Your Wedding Planner: Your wedding day will be busy, and the last thing you want to worry about is tracking down vendors to hand out tips. This is where your wedding planner comes in. Entrust your planner with the envelopes and ask them to distribute the gratuities to the appropriate vendors at the right times.
- Timing Is Key: Tips are usually given at the end of the event, once the service has been provided. For example, caterers, bartenders, and musicians are typically tipped after the reception, while hair and makeup artists are tipped after they’ve completed their services. Your wedding planner can ensure that each vendor receives their gratuity at the appropriate time.
Alternatives to Cash Tips
If cash tipping isn’t your preferred route, there are other ways to show your appreciation:
- Gifts: A small, thoughtful gift can be a meaningful way to say thank you, especially if it’s something personal that shows you’ve considered the vendor’s interests or needs.
- Reviews: Writing a glowing review on platforms like Google, Yelp, or WeddingWire can significantly impact a vendor’s business. Be specific about what you loved and how they contributed to your wedding.
- Referrals: Recommending your vendors to friends, family, or in social media groups can be incredibly valuable. Many vendors rely heavily on word-of-mouth, and your referral could lead to new business opportunities for them.

Ok, Fine… You Just Want Numbers?
1. Catering Staff
- Tip Amount: 15-20% of the total food and beverage bill.
- When to Tip: At the end of the reception, given to the catering manager or head server to distribute among the staff.
2. Bartenders
- Tip Amount: 10-15% of the total bar bill or $1-2 per guest.
- When to Tip: At the end of the reception.
3. Wedding Planner
- Tip Amount: 10-20% of the total planning fee or a personal gift.
- When to Tip: After the final invoice is paid or at the end of the wedding day.
4. Hair and Makeup Artists
- Tip Amount: 15-25% of the total service cost.
- When to Tip: After the services are completed.
5. Officiant
- Tip Amount: $50-100 or a donation to their church or organization.
- When to Tip: Before or after the ceremony.
6. Photographer/Videographer
- Tip Amount: $50-200 per shooter, or 10-20% of the total bill.
- When to Tip: After receiving the final products or at the end of the wedding day.
7. Musicians/DJ
- Tip Amount: $50-150 per musician or DJ, or 10-15% of the total fee.
- When to Tip: At the end of the reception.
8. Transportation Drivers
- Tip Amount: 15-20% of the total bill.
- When to Tip: At the end of the service.
9. Florist
- Tip Amount: $50-100, especially if the setup is complex or requires significant effort.
- When to Tip: Upon delivery or after the setup is completed.
10. Bakery (Cake Delivery)
- Tip Amount: $10-20 per delivery person.
- When to Tip: Upon delivery of the cake.
11. Venue Staff (if not included in the contract)
- Tip Amount: $100-300 for the banquet manager, $20-50 each for the rest of the staff.
- When to Tip: At the end of the reception.
Final Thoughts
As you plan your wedding, remember that showing appreciation to your vendors is an important part of the process. Whether you choose to tip, give a gift, or offer a glowing review, your gratitude will not go unnoticed.
If you’re looking for expert guidance on handling all the details, including gratuity, consider hiring a wedding planner who can manage these tasks with finesse. A seasoned planner not only ensures your day runs smoothly but also knows the ins and outs of vendor etiquette, helping you navigate these decisions with ease.
Ready to make your wedding day unforgettable? Contact us today to see how we can help you plan every detail, from start to finish, with grace and expertise.
January 13, 2025