We typically get two big questions from brides about tipping their vendors: 1) How much and who should I tip? 2) A tip, wait, what? Aren’t I paying them enough already!?
To help answer some of those questions, we’ve done our research so you can know what etiquette calls for when considering whether or not to tip your vendors.
First of all, you do not have to tip any of your vendors. However, some of the vendors will be expecting a tip as it is typical for some vendors to receive some sort of a tip. That said, there are many other vendors who do not expect a tip at all, so they are all the more appreciative if you choose to leave them a little monetary thank you!
Hairstylist and Makeup Artist
Protocol: Expected
The Standard: 15% – 20%
When to Tip: After services are rendered.
Rental Delivery & Set-up Staff
Protocol: Optional
The Standard: $5 – $10 per person
When to Tip: After rental items are delivered.
Wedding Ceremony Officiant
Protocol: Expected
The Standard: If unpaid, $100. If paid, $20
When to Tip: At the rehearsal.
Wedding Ceremony Musicians
Protocol: Optional
The Standard: $15 – $20 per musician
When to Tip: After the ceremony, once services are rendered.
Wedding Planner
Protocol: Optional
The Standard: $200 – $500
When to Tip: At the end of the reception, or mailed in a thank you note after the honeymoon.
Wedding Photographer/Videographer
Protocol: Optional
The Standard: $50 – $200 per person
When to Tip: During or after the reception.
Bartender and Catering Wait Staff
Protocol: Expected
The Standard: $20 – $25 per person
When to Tip: Either before or after the event.
Car Attendants and Coat Check Attendants
Protocol: Optional
The Standard: $1 per car or $1 per coat
When to Tip: Either before or after the event.
Wedding Reception Band or DJ
Protocol: Optional, yet preferred
The Standard: $20 – $25 per musician, $50 for DJ’s
When to Tip: At the end of the Reception, after services rendered.
Wedding Transportation
Protocol: Expected
The Standard: 15% – 20% of the total bill
When to Tip: After the last ride.
As the bride or groom, do not take it upon yourself to pass out tips throughout the night. If you have a wedding coordinator, you will want to give her the envelopes with the tips before the evening begins and she will handle them appropriately. If you don’t have a wedding coordinator, give the envelopes to someone you trust, such as the best man, before the festivities began so that you can kick your heels up and enjoy the event without having to worry about passing out tips!
