The Comprehensive Guide to Tipping Wedding Vendors

Young bride getting her hair done before wedding

Planning a wedding can be an exciting but overwhelming experience, especially when dealing with multiple business owners and service providers. One aspect that can be particularly confusing is tipping your wedding vendors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover who to tip, how much, when, why, and how to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible, whether you’re planning a destination wedding or a local event.

Catering Staff and Servers

Catering staff and servers, employed by the catering company, play a crucial role in ensuring your guests are well-fed and your wedding reception runs smoothly. Tipping is generally expected as a way to show appreciation for their hard work, especially if there isn’t a service charge included in your contract.

Tipping is: Expected

How much do I tip my catering staff and servers? 15-20% of the total catering bill, divided among the staff, or $20-50 per server, depending on the level of service.

When do I tip my catering staff and servers? Tips should be handed out at the end of the reception, either directly to the staff or given to the banquet manager to distribute.

Bartenders

Bartenders keep the drinks flowing and the atmosphere lively at your wedding. Tipping is expected to show appreciation for their service, especially if a service fee isn’t already included in your contract.

Tipping is: Expected

How much do I tip my bartenders? 10-15% of the total bar bill.

When do I tip my bartenders? Tips should be handed out at the end of the reception, either directly to the staff or given to the bar manager to distribute.

Wedding Planner and Wedding Coordinators

Your wedding planner/coordinator helps bring your vision to life and ensures everything runs smoothly on your big day. Tipping is optional but is a thoughtful way to express gratitude for their hard work. A nice gift, such as a gift card or a personalized item, can also be a meaningful gesture.

Tipping is: Optional

How much do I tip my wedding planner? 10-20% of their fee, or a personal gift.

When do I tip my wedding planner? Tips or gifts can be given at the end of the reception or after the wedding. 

Wedding Photographers & Videographers

Photographers and videographers, including your wedding photographer, capture the special moments of your wedding day for you to cherish for years to come. Tipping is optional, but it’s a nice way to show appreciation for their creative work and exceptional service.

Tipping is: Optional

How much do I tip my photographer/videographer? Typically between $50-$200 each, depending on the quality of their work and your satisfaction with the final product.

When do I tip my photographer/videographer? Tips should be handed out at the end of the reception or after you receive your photos and videos, depending on your preference.

Florist/Floral Designer

The florist, or floral designer, creates beautiful floral arrangements that set the tone for your wedding. Tipping is optional

but can be a thoughtful gesture to show appreciation for their artistic skills and the time they put into creating your wedding flowers.

Tipping is: Optional

How much do I tip my florist? $50-$150, or a personal gift or gift card.

When do I tip my florist? Tips or gifts can be given on the day of the wedding after the floral setup is complete or after the wedding when you pick up any rented items.

Baker

The baker creates the centerpiece of your dessert table and a sweet memory for you and your wedding guests. Tipping is optional but can be a nice gesture to show appreciation for your wedding cake.

Tipping is: Optional

How much do I tip my baker? $25-$100, or a personal gift or gift card.

When do I tip my baker? Tips or gifts can be given when the cake is delivered, or after the wedding when you return any rented cake stands or accessories.

DJ/Sound Technicians

Your DJ is responsible for ensuring your ceremony and reception have the perfect ambiance and your guests can hear every special moment. Tipping is optional but can be a nice way to show appreciation for their technical expertise.

Tipping is: Optional

How much do I tip my DJ? $25-$100, or a personal gift or gift card.

When do I tip my DJ? Tips or gifts can be given out after the reception before they leave.

Live Musicians/Bands

Live music can set the mood for your wedding and create a memorable experience for you and your guests. Tipping is optional but can be a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their talent and professionalism.

Tipping is: Optional

How much do I tip a musician? $25-$200 based on the duration of their performance

When do I tip a musician? Tips should be given out after the reception.

Rehearsal Dinner Staff

The rehearsal dinner staff ensure that your pre-wedding event runs smoothly and that your wedding guests are well-fed and entertained. Tipping is expected as a way to show appreciation for their excellent service, especially if a service charge isn’t already included in your contract.

Tipping is: Expected

How much do I tip my rehearsal dinner staff? Typically at least 20% of the total bill, divided among the staff, or $20-50 per server, depending on the level of service.

When do I tip my rehearsal dinner staff? Tips should be handed out at the end of the event, either directly to the staff or given to the venue manager to distribute.

Final Thoughts

By following the guidelines above, you can ensure that you’re prepared to tip each wedding vendor appropriately, acknowledging their hard work and contributions to your special day. Remember that the rule of thumb is to tip for excellent service, and consider giving cash tips or cash envelopes when possible to make the process as smooth as possible. With a little planning and organization, you can show your gratitude to your wedding vendors in a meaningful and stress-free way.

Table of Contents