Many couples wonder: “Do I tip my wedding vendors? How much?” Here’s a list of helpful suggestions for each of your wedding vendors!
A few notes:
- Gratuity is never required and only given for awesome service.
- Make sure to read contracts to see if gratuity is already included.
- Place cash in an envelope for each vendor and label it accordingly.
Catering
- Catering Staff: 15 – 20% of the cost of your total catering bill
- Banquet Manager, Captain and/or Head Waiter: $50 – $100/per staff
- Chef: $50 – $100
- Waiters and kitchen staff: $20 – $30/per staff
- Bartenders: $20 – $25/per staff
Venue
- Venue Coordinator: $75-$150
- Coat Check Attendants: $20 – $25/per staff
- Valet/Parking Attendants: $1 – $2/per car
Band/DJ/String
- Ceremony: $20 – $25/per musician
- Reception: $25 – $50/per musician
- $50 – $100 for stand-alone DJ
Photographer/Videographer
- $75 – $150/per staff
Officiant
- Donation to the house of worship for religious ceremonies
- $50 – $100 for non-religious ceremonies
Floral/Decor
- Salesperson: $50 – $100
- Set-up Team: $25 – $50/per staff
Hair Stylist/Makeup Artist
- 20% of your total service fee
- $10/per service
Party Bus/Limo Driver
- $50/per driver
Wedding Coordinator/Planner
- $75-$150/per staff
While on the topic of money, here are some other expenses to keep in mind:
- Postage stamps (save the dates, invites & RSVP cards)
- Garment alterations
- Vendor valet & meals
- Overtime fees for vendors to stay past their contracted times
- Hotel guest welcome bag fees
- Hotel attrition clause (get a courtesy room block to avoid penalties)
- Food, beverage, linen, etc..upgrades
- Transportation for any rented items
- Services fees at the venue (only a small portion is considered gratuity)
- Marriage license
- Extra band/dj equipment (based on the venue space layout)
- Venue rental requirements (security, clean up, pipe & drape, etc…)
- Lighting (room up-lighting or pinspot lights for tall centerpieces)
- Guest transportation or valet
- Coat check attendant
We hope you found this guide helpful!
