Don’t Forget the Tip! A Gratuity Guide for Your Wedding Vendors

When figuring out the budget for your wedding, don’t forget to include extra for tips. Some services, like venue, bar and catering, often have that gratuity built into the price. However, some of the individual vendors don’t and certainly appreciate a little extra something for a job well done. Don’t forget thank yous, or reviews for exceptional service as well. Put a parent or bridal party member in charge of dispensing tips to make sure they aren’t forgotten. After all, you’ll be pretty busy on the big day!

Wedding Planner

Suggested: 10–20 percent, up to $500, or a nice gift

When to Tip: Hand off the envelope at the end of the reception or send a thank-you note with check right after the honeymoon.

Wedding Hairstylist and Makeup Artist

Suggested: 15–25 percent, depending upon the quality of service

When to Tip: Tip your beauty stylists at the end of your service.

Wedding Ceremony Officiant

Suggested: Donate $100–$500 to the church or synagogue, and for the officiant, a tip of $50-$100 (maybe more, depending on how much time they’ve spent with you).

When to Tip: Most ceremony fees are required prior to the wedding. Otherwise, have a responsible attendant pass the cash envelope at the rehearsal dinner if the officiant is in attendance.

Wedding Florist

Suggested: $50-$100 for a dazzling display.

When to Tip: At the end of the reception, or after initial set-up if your florist isn’t handling tear-down.

Wedding Baker

Suggested: $50-$100 for their artistry.

When to Tip: Upon delivery and set-up of the cake.

Wedding Ceremony Musicians

Suggested: $15–$20 per musician

When to Tip: Ceremony musicians should receive a tip at the end of the ceremony.

Wedding Photographer and Videographer

Suggested: $50–$200 per vendor

When to Tip: Tip your photographer and videographer at the end of the reception.

Wedding Reception Band or DJ

Suggested: $25–$35 per musician; $50–$150 for DJs

When to Tip: An attendant should tip the musicians or DJ at the end of the reception.

Wedding Transportation

Suggested: 15–20 percent of the total bill

When to Tip: Tip transportation pros at the end of the night or after the last ride. If you used a separate company for the guest buses, designate a bus captain to hand the driver a tip, otherwise this duty falls to a designated attendant.