Planning a wedding can feel like assembling the cast for Bridgerton—every actor (or vendor) has a role, and their collective effort ensures a seamless celebration. But unlike on TV, these stars not only want to be paid, but they also appreciate a good tip. Tipping wedding vendors isn’t always appropriate, but for the right vendors, it’s a way to show gratitude for making your big day special. Many vendors will actually include a tip in the vendor fee, so be sure to read the fine print. Follow this guide to find out which vendors and how much to tip for your wedding.
How much to tip a vendor based on the different types
Tipping culture can vary slightly depending on the type of vendor it is. Let’s discuss each different type and what to tip each.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planners are the center of your wedding universe. They orchestrate the entire event, ensuring everything runs smoothly. While some bridal guides recommend large tips for planners, we would recommend tipping on a case-by-case basis only if you really feel they went above and beyond. After all, they are independent business owners, and you pay them a professional fee for their services. Be sure to check the contract to ensure a gratuity isn’t already included.
- Standard Tip: 10% of their fee if they really went above and beyond.
- Tip Example: If your wedding planner charges $5,000, then a $500 tip is very generous.
Photographer and Videographer
The photographer and videographer vendors capture your memories, so tipping them ensures they keep a smile on their faces as they work.
- Standard Tip: $50-$200 per person.
- Tip Example: If your photography team consists of three people, consider tipping $150-$600 total.
Caterer and Waitstaff
The caterer is like the Penelope Featherington of your wedding— essential and unforgettable. After all, you will be seeing their smiling (or not smiling) faces all night long!
- Standard Tip: 15-20% of the total catering bill.
- Tip Example: For a $10,000 catering bill, tip between $1,500-$2,000.
Hair and Makeup Artists
These professionals are your personal Fairy Godmothers, transforming you into the perfect bride or groom. You keep them happy–they keep you looking your best.
- Standard Tip: 15% of the total cost.
- Tip Example: If your hair and makeup bill is $500, tip between $75 and $125.
DJ or Band
The entertainment sets the mood for your wedding – and just like Colin Bridgerton, the party doesn’t get started until they arrive.
- Standard Tip: $50-$150 per musician or DJ.
- Tip Example: For a four-piece band, tip between $200-$600.
Officiant
The person marrying you obviously plays a crucial role in your wedding, so they deserve some extra love.
- Standard Tip: $50-$100.
- Tip Example: If your officiant is a close friend, consider a more personalized gift instead of cash. Note that clergy may be prohibited from accepting tips.
Bottom line? While each vendor has a standard tipping range, consider the quality of service when determining the exact amount, and make sure to take this into account when budgeting for your special day.
Tip-giving etiquette
Tipping wedding vendors isn’t just about the money; it’s about showing appreciation and respect. Handing your officiant a wadded-up ball of cash isn’t exactly the move. Let’s look at some particulars around tipping.
Timing
- Before the Event: Some vendors, like your wedding planner, may prefer tips beforehand. You may also want to tip certain people early if you know you are going to tip generously and want to ensure they go a little above and beyond.
- After the Event: Most tips are given after the service has been rendered, ensuring you tip based on the quality of service.
Presentation
- Cash: Place cash in envelopes with a handwritten thank-you note.
- Checks: If tipping by check, write it out to the individual vendor.
- Gifts: For non-cash tips, consider something unique, like a small gift.
Delegation
- Who does what: Assign the task of distributing tips to someone you trust, like the Best Man or Maid of Honor.
- Wedding Planner: Alternatively, the wedding planner can handle tip distribution.
Proper timing and presentation can enhance the gesture of tipping, making it more personal and appreciated.
Is there any wedding vendor you shouldn’t tip?
While tipping is customary, not all vendors expect or need a tip. Here are some examples.
Business Owners
- Policy: Some business owners, especially those with high service charges, do not expect tips.
- Example: A solo photographer who owns their business may not expect a tip if they have already charged a high fee.
Contract Inclusions
- Check Your Contract: Some contracts include a gratuity or service charge.
- Example: Catering companies often include a service charge that covers tips for the staff. Thus, there is no need to tip more unless you want to!
Volunteers
- Non-Profit: If someone is volunteering their services, a heartfelt thank-you note and a small gift can be more appropriate.
- Example: If your aunt volunteers to bake your wedding cake, a nice gift or a thank-you card would be better than a tip.
Key takeaway here is that not every vendor expects a tip, especially if they’re business owners or volunteers. Always check your contract for included gratuities.
When is a tip not warranted for bad service?
Tipping is a bonus reward for good service, not a requirement, and certainly not essential for bad service. Here are some examples of when a tip may not be warranted for bad service:
Unsatisfactory Performance
- Poor Quality: If the service was below expectations, tipping may not be necessary.
- Example: If your DJ failed to follow your playlist and ruined the vibe, you might consider withholding the tip.
Communication/Behavior Issues
- Lack of Professionalism: If a vendor was rude or unprofessional, it’s acceptable to withhold the tip completely.
- Example: A caterer who arrives late and unprepared could warrant a lower tip.
Resolution Efforts
- Effort to Resolve: If the vendor made a genuine effort to rectify the issue, consider tipping a smaller amount.
- Example: If the florist forgot a few arrangements but rushed to deliver them during the ceremony, a partial tip might still be appropriate.
Tips are for excellent service. If the service was poor, it’s okay to adjust the tip accordingly.
Tipping in a nutshell
Tipping wedding vendors is a meaningful way to show appreciation for their hard work and their contribution to your special day. However, even if you can’t fulfill the suggested tips outlined here, consider alternative ways of showing your appreciation. For example, as highlighted by Honeyfund, you could leave a Google review online, write a thank-you note, or give a gift. The purpose of tipping is to ensure everyone who contributed to your big day feels appreciated and valued, so choose the option that works best for you and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about tipping wedding vendors
Still have lingering questions on tipping culture in the wedding world? Look no further.
Q: Should I tip the florist?
A: Yes, a standard tip for a florist is 10-15% of the total bill.
Q: Can I tip with a gift instead of cash?
A: Yes, where it makes sense! Personalized gifts can be a thoughtful alternative to cash tips. For example,
Q: What if my budget is tight?
A: Tip what you can afford and accompany it with a heartfelt thank-you note. You can also leave a 5-star Google review, Trust Pilot review, and personalized Reddit review to really make a business owner’s day.
Sara Margulis launched Honeyfund in 2006, leveraging her digital marketing expertise to revolutionize wedding gifting. Under her leadership, Honeyfund has shifted a generational trend away from household items and toward shared experiences, empowering 1.3 m couples to create and fund their honeymoons, distributing nearly $1 billion in gifts. As CEO of the popular honeymoon registry service, Sara is steering the company into its next phase as a life-long funding platform where couples can receive the support of friends and family for all of life’s milestones. Sara appeared on ABC’s Shark Tank in 2014 and landed a partnership with Kevin O’Leary (‘Mr. Wonderful’). Sara also serves on the board of Sebastopol Charter School in her home town of Sebastopol, CA.
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