Vendor Gratuity Guide

One of the questions I am most commonly asked by my couples is who do we need to tip for my wedding and how much should we tip them?

First of all, let me start by saying, it’s so classy and kind that you are even thinking about tipping your vendors. Nicely done. 🙂 The good news is it is not expected for you to tip all your vendors (although you certainly can if you wish). Here is a quick guide to give you an idea of which vendors to tip and how much.

Caterer/Banquet Manager

Nowadays many caterers build in a gratuity to fee into your proposal. Therefore, review your menu proposal closely to see if your caterer already accounted for this cost. However, if your caterer did not include this in their original proposal a standard 15%-20% of your total bill cost is the industry standard. For the banquet manager or the lead server, an additional $100–$200 can be a nice gesture to show appreciation.

Bartenders

Bartenders are typically tipped 10–15% of the total bar bill. Ensure that there’s no built-in gratuity first. If not, consider setting aside a cash tip or a per-hour rate for each bartender. You might also give your bartender the “okay” to have a cash tip jar at the bar as well.

Wedding Planner

Most planners do not expect a tip for their services. However, if you are exceptionally wow’d by the service you receive and who like to show a gesture of gratitude, consider tipping them $100–$500 or giving them a small thoughtful gift.

Photographer & Videographer

This is another vendor who will not expect a tip. However, if your photographer or videographer went above and beyond your expectations, $50-$200 per photographer or videographer at the end of the evening is a wonderful way to show your appreciation.

Officiant

Your officiant will certainly not expect or possibly even accept a tip. If your officiant is affiliated with a religious organization, donate $100–$300 to their church or cause. If they’re not associated with a religious entity or independent, $50–$100 is a kind gesture.

Hair & Makeup

Just like if you went to a salon for beauty services, the same tipping rules apply. The 15%-20% tip on the total cost of your services is customary for this vendor.

Band

If you decide to hire a live band for your wedding, a nice way to show your thanks for their performance is to give $25-$50 gratuity per band member.

DJ

If you opt to have a DJ host your wedding reception, and they knock your socks off, a 10%-15% tip based on the total cost for their services is customary.

Transportation

Whether you decide to hire a limo, party bus or horse and carriage for your wedding, a standard 15% tip on their total cost of services for your driver is a really nice gesture. Especially because the driver is usually a contracted employee through the transportation company and only making minimum wage for your transportation services. Drivers usually depend on tips to make up the difference for their low wages.

Delivery & Setup Staff

Individuals who deliver and set up large items like tents, tables, or lighting should be tipped $5–$15 per person if the gratuity isn’t included in the service charge.

Reviews

At the end of the day, one thing to remember is tipping is optional – and should truly be based on overall performance. If you want to tip any of your vendors, but are feeling it is just not in your budget, a really nice “free” way to show your appreciation is to write your vendor a stellar review. Reviews on Google, The Knot, Wedding Wire, etc. are very powerful. Your review will help support your favorite vendor’s small business and help them gain new clients.

Final Thought

I hope this information is helpful! Remember, at the end of the day, deciding how much to give for a vendor gratuity is completely up to you. Trust your heart and give gratuities to those vendors for whom you feel sincere gratitude and appreciation.

All my best,

Casey

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Casey Green Weddings, LLC | 2501 S Village Drive, Cottonwood, AZ 86326