More than almost any other topic, we get questions from couples regarding gratuities. It’s the number one most forgotten expense to account for too, so it’s a big ticket conversation. There are three main things to remember when considering tipping. 

1. Some contracts already include it in the package. 
2. By definition, tipping is never required. 
3. There are other options to show your gratitude. 

Let’s break it down and then we’ll give a sample of what we typically see couples giving.

Before you set aside any cash for your vendors, read the fine print. Check the contracts to see if it’s already included. It’s important to realize that “service fee” or “admin fee” does not necessarily translate to “tip.” If it’s unclear, call the vendor and specifically ask about gratuities and what’s included. They’ll be happy to clarify for you.

Gratuities are always considered a nicety. Although they’re not required, some vendors do expect them. If there’s someone you would tip in your everyday life, then it’s a good idea to tip them on the wedding day too. This includes catering staff, bartenders, hair stylists, makeup artists, anyone driving you around, and anyone making a large delivery. All other vendors are certainly not expecting anything extra, but if you feel like they completely killed it and went above and beyond, let them know by giving them some cash! If you weren’t wowed by them, don’t give a gratuity. 

If you feel as though some vendors did some excellent work, but you just can’t afford to give cash to everyone, consider something else. Many vendors are dying to have former couples leave a review of their services. This is almost as good as a gratuity, so hop on Google and write a detailed account of your experience with that vendor on their business listing. Or if gift-giving is your jam, do that! 

Here are some ranges we typically see:

• Servers (catering and bar): $50-$75 per person
• Kitchen captain or mixologist (boss of servers): $100-$200 per person
• HMU: 15-20% of the bill – they can divide it up among themselves
• Chauffeur (for a getaway vehicle or shuttle): $50-$100 per person
• Delivery people (cake, rentals, lighting, draping, etc): $50-$100 per person, depending on the labor involved
• Security Guards: $50 per person
• Musicians: $50-$100 per person
• Officiant: $50-$100 or a donation to their church, synagogue, or temple.
• Venue rep: $50-$100 per person
• Lead Florist: $100-$500
• Florist assistants: $50-$100 per person
• Lead photographer or videographer: $100-$500 per person
• Second shooters: $50-$100 per person
• Lead Planner: $100-$500 
• Assistant planners: $50-$100 per person

Now that you know who you’re tipping, let’s go over some best practices of how to administer tips.

Once you’ve got the designated amounts you’re wanting to give, you’ll need to appropriately label the envelopes. Each envelope should have the company or name of the person along with the amount of cash that’s inside. If you’re using one envelope or multiple people (HMU, a bunch of servers, etc.), then it’s recommended to use smaller bills so they can divide it up easily. If you want to take it to the next level, you can also write a small thank you note to include in each envelope.

You should give the sealed and labeled envelopes to your planner at the beginning of the day. Don’t wait until the reception because some of the delivery vendors will already be gone at that point and won’t be returning at the end of the evening. 

If you need advice on your specific vendor team, don’t be afraid to ask your planner directly. Don’t have a planner? We know just where you can find a great one!