Tips on Tipping

It's customary to tip those vendors who have helped make your wedding day special, but how do you know how much to tip? It's best to keep this tipping schedule in mind when you figure out your budget. That way, you don't get stuck the day of with no money left and vendors who feel slighted.



This list comes from Sharon Naylor, author of The Essential Guide to Wedding Etiquette.



Event planner (optional) 10-20 percent of your bill.

Note: If you are planning to tip your consultant, try to hire one with packages that offer fixed costs instead of a planner who charges by the hour or based on services provided. This makes it much easier to budget your tip into your overall costs.



Officiant $50-$100



Ceremony musicians $20-$30



Reception site manager 15-20 percent of the entire reception site bill



Valets $1-$2 per car



Waiters $20-$30 each (depending on service quality)

Note: Some catering services or reception locations may include a tip for the waiters in the cost. Be sure to ask so you know whether or not to tip.



Bartenders 15 percent of the liquor bill

Note: Some catering services or reception locations may include a tip for the bartenders in the cost. Be sure to ask so you whether or not to tip.



Coat Check $1 per coat



Photographer/Videographer $30-$100 or more (unless these vendors own their own studios)



Delivery Workers $10 each if only dropping items off, $20 each if dropping off and setting up.



Tent Assemblers $20 each, more if the tent is complicated or if flooring is also put down.



Reception Musicians $25-$30 each, $50-$100 for a DJ



Hair and Makeup 15 to 20 percent of the bill



Cleanup crew $20 each



Limo Drivers 15 to 20 percent of the transportation bill.

Note: Sometimes the tip has been included in the cost of the bill, so be sure to ask if it's included.