Gratuities with Gratitude
Q: Do I need to tip or offer a gratuity to all of my vendors? If so, how much do I give?
We always get this question, so wanted to address it with you before the big day approaches.
A: Tip when you feel like you've received exceptional service. Not all vendors expect tips, however tipping for good service is standard practice in any service-oriented industry.
Regardless of whether or not you tip, a personal thank you is always a nice way to show your appreciation. If you plan to tip, cash can be added to the thank you note. If you write a check, tips should be written out to the individual (not the company).
Bright idea!
For vendors who own their own businesses (THINK: bakers, caterers, florists, photographers, etc), in addition to a thank you letter, writing a review or testimonial online for them is ALWAYS appreciated. Check with them to see where they'd like a review - Yelp, Google, and Wedding Wire are popular websites.
If the vendor has done an exceptional job and exceeded your expectations, you may offer a monetary gift in appreciation for extra special services. NOTE: Double check your contract to make sure a gratuity wasn't already applied to your final total (restaurants often do this).
If you want to give a monetary gift in appreciation for extra special service, here are some guidelines to follow:
Catering Manager
Service charges collected by the venue are not used to tip the Catering Manager who helped you with the venue details during your planning. While not expected, $50-$200 is appropriate, depending on the size and complexity of your event.
Beauty Professionals
15%-25% of their total fee is normally expected, just as you would at a salon. This gratuity is normally on their contract.
Caterer
Check your contract first to see if you're already paying a service charge and to whom it will be distributed. If no charge exists, here's the breakdown: cooks and waitstaff: $15-$25 each; lead chef: $50-$100; lead waiter: $50-$100.
Clergy/Officiant
$50-$100 for the officiant is standard, in addition to a donation of $100-$500 to the church (if you're getting married in a church).
Delivery/Service Staff
Gratuities are not expected, but $5-$10 per person is acceptable.
Florist
Gratuities are not expected, but if you loved their work, consider between $50-$200, depending on intricacy.
Ceremony Musicians
$20-$25 per member, paid at the end of their service.
Reception DJ/Musicians
$20-$50 per member, paid at the end of their service.
Photographers/Videographers
$50-$200 per person, couples often tip the owner/lead photographer on the higher end of the scale, $50-$100 for additional shooters.
Transportation Driver
Most transportation vendors add gratuities to their contracts. If not, drivers should be tipped 15-20% for each ride, usually in cash.
There are so many more vendors that aren't included on this list. Click HERE for additional information.
If you need assistance on deciding how much to give, don't hesitate to ask. We can "tip" you in the right direction! Also, please give us a list of who will be receiving a gratuity so we can collect the envelopes from you for safe and easy distribution.
