Tipping vendors and wedding service providers can be tricky. Here’s a cheat sheet to make it a painless process. (Note: These figures were presented in a New England publication. Appropriate tipping amounts may vary throughout the country.)
Tipping can take place at time of service or, in some cases, within a few days with a thank-you note.
Hair Stylist/Makeup Artist: 15 to 25%; 30% if work is done on-site.
Ceremony Musician: $20 to $25 per person
DJ: $50 to $150
Wedding Planner: 15 to 20%
On-site Coordinator: 15 to 20% of the food and drink fee (usually between $100 and $300)
Wait Staff/Bartenders: $20 to $30 per waiter and $25 to $40 for each bartender, depending on the type of bar service, if not already included in your total price.
Officiate: Often a donation to the house of worship – anywhere from $100 – $500 – will be made in lieu of payment/gratuity. For non-denominational officiates, anywhere from $50 to $100 (on top of the fee) or an invitation to the reception is a nice gesture.
Drivers: 15 to 20%, often included in the contract.
No need to tip florists, photographers, cake bakers or owners of companies unless they provide exceptional service. Be sure to have a point person handling the tipping while you enjoy your day.
Marisa Baratelli