How to Tip Wedding Vendors

To tip or not to tip, that is the question. The answer depends largely on the quality of service rendered on this hectic day. Remember, to receive a tip is a privilege, not a right.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Wedding Thank-you Stationery
• Thank-you Greeting Cards
• Red Wines
• Envelopes
• Pens

1. Talk to the site manager to find out about tipping policies and how tipping has been handled in the past.
2. Plan ahead and have tips ready in sealed envelopes prior to the event. Be sure to have extra envelopes on hand for those unexpected lifesaving services.
3. Designate someone to be in charge of tipping ' the host or wedding consultant is a likely prospect.
4. Base your tips on performance, using these guidelines. Head honcho at the reception: 20 percent of the bill. Wait staff, disc jockey and musicians: $25 each. Bartenders: 10 to 12 percent of the liquor bill. Delivery persons, florists and drivers: $10 each. Parking, coatroom and powder room attendants: $1 or less per guest or car.

Tips & Warnings

• Read your bills carefully to avoid double tipping. Tips are often included in the bill automatically.
• If you really appreciate a service, put it in writing. A thoughtfully written letter of thanks could be just the thing that gets a vendor his or her next job - or even a promotion.
• It may be inappropriate, or even insulting, to tip such vendors as caterers, photographers and wedding planners if they own their own business. To show your appreciation for such services, consider giving niceties such as a bottle of wine instead. Remember, if you're ever in doubt about when or whom to tip, simply ask.

Who Can Help:

• Find Decorators & Designers Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.