Tips for Tipping (Weddings & Events)

advice, Blog, Event Planning

We receive a lot of questions about tipping – and how much should be set aside within a wedding budget for each. Including these costs in your budget breakdown will help keep you within your limits and keep unexpected costs at bay. Of course, this is not a full list of suggested amounts, but what is generally standard within the industry.

  • Clergy member (priest, minister, rabbi, etc.): A donation to their place of worship ($50 +) on top of the ceremony fees (which may be another donation to the place of worship as well)
  • Public Official (judge, justice of the peace, city clerk): Generally there is a flat fee to perform officiating services, however if you feel the service met and/or went beyond expectations, a tip of $50+ is a nice thank you
  • Ceremony Assistants (alter servers, cantor, organist, etc.): Although this is generally covered in church fees, it is customary to tip each $5 – $25 each
  • Wedding Planner: Although it’s not expected, depending upon their level of involvement leading up to your big day, approximately 15% – 20% of their services.
  • Delivery & Set-up (Florist, Baker, Lighting, Rental set-up for tables & chairs): $10 – $25 per person
  • Hair & Makeup Stylists: 18% – 25% depending upon level of service and satisfaction. Always note, if they are traveling to your location, tipping on the higher end is appreciated
  • Photographer/Videographer: $100 – $200 per vendor depending upon number of people involved
  • Musicians / Bands / DJ: $25 – $50 per musician/band member or sound tech;  $75 – $150 for each DJ vendor (DJ, MC, etc.)
  • Limo drivers: 15% – 20% for each driver
  • Reception staff: If gratuity is not already included in your catering bill, it is appropriate to tip the wait staff the following amounts – Servers: 15% of catering bill; Maitre d’: $200 – $300 per Maitre d’; Captain: $150 – $200; Bartenders: $50 per bartender; Bridal Attendant: $150 – $200; Valet: $1 – 2 per car; Restroom Attendants: $1 for every guest; Coat Check: $1 per guest
  • Baker/Florist: Tip what you feel is appropriate and only if service was exceptional
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