Hello Lovebirds!
One of the many things that can cause confusion when planning your wedding is tipping your vendors. Do you tip them? How much is appropriate? When do you do it? The last thing you want is to find yourself scrambling at the last minute, trying to figure out the right amount to show your appreciation for the amazing team that made your dream day a reality.
Before we begin, yes, I know weddings can be expensive. Between the venue, the dress, the catering, and everything in between, costs can quickly add up. While tips are not mandatory, many couples often find themselves asking, “How much should we tip our wedding vendors?” It’s a question I get asked frequently, and I completely understand the confusion. So, I decided to do some research and write about the industry standards when it comes to tipping.
In this guide, you’ll get a clear breakdown of who to tip, how much to give, and when to offer it, so you can feel confident in showing your appreciation for the amazing vendors who make your dream day a reality. Let’s dive in!
Why Tipping Your Wedding Vendors is Important
Tipping your wedding vendors is more than just a gesture of appreciation—it’s a way to show them that their hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Your vendors play an essential role in making your day unforgettable, so it’s crucial to ensure they feel valued. When you tip your vendors, you acknowledge their expertise and contribution, helping to maintain positive relationships for future events or referrals.
The general rule of thumb is to tip anywhere from 10-20% of the total bill for each vendor, depending on the level of service provided. While some vendors include a service charge or gratuity in their contract, others may leave it up to you to decide. Let’s break down how to approach tipping each vendor and how Wild Bloem Studios can make it easier for you!
Pro Tip
Make sure to check each vendor’s contract before the wedding. Some contracts already include gratuity, so there’s no need to tip extra.
How Much to Tip Each Vendor
Let’s dive into the specifics! Here’s a breakdown of who to tip and how much, based on the role each vendor plays in your wedding:
Wedding Planner/Coordinator
While wedding planners typically don’t expect tips, many couples choose to tip them as a thank you for their hard work and dedication. A tip of 10-20% of their total fee is a nice way to show appreciation for their attention to detail and commitment to bringing your vision to life.
Photographer & Videographer
Photographers and videographers are key players in capturing the memories of your special day. While tips are not mandatory, many couples choose to give a tip of $50-$200 per person, depending on the quality of service provided. Consider how much effort and energy your photographer and videographer put into making your day shine
Catering & Servers
Catering staff usually receive a 15-20% tip on the total catering bill, which is often already included in the service charge. However, if your caterer has provided exceptional service or customized menus to fit your needs, it’s worth giving the staff a tip of $100-$200 in total, depending on the size of the team.
Officiant
Some officiants include gratuity in their service fee, but if not, it’s customary to give them a tip of $50-$100. Of course, if you’ve formed a special bond with your officiant, you can adjust the amount based on their involvement and contribution to your ceremony. Pro Tip: If you’re getting married at a religious venue, check with the church or temple about any specific tipping guidelines or expectations.
Florists
While florists don’t expect a tip, they’ll certainly appreciate one if their floral designs brought your vision to life. Tipping 10-15% of the total cost for their services is a nice way to show them how much their work meant to you.
Band/DJ
If you’ve hired a DJ or band to get the party started, a tip of $50-$150 is typical, based on their performance. If the DJ or band went above and beyond in creating the perfect atmosphere, you may want to tip them a little extra. Pro Tip: Hand the tip to the DJ or band leader at the end of the night to avoid any confusion with the performers or agents.
Transportation
If your wedding includes a limo, shuttle, or other forms of transportation, it’s customary to tip the driver $50-$100, depending on the level of service. If the driver was particularly helpful, you may want to give them a little more. Pro Tip: Confirm if a tip is already included in your transportation contract before adding extra.
A Personal Note from Me to You
Tipping your wedding vendors may seem like a small detail, but it’s one that can make a big impact on the overall feel of your day. Your wedding vendors work tirelessly to bring your vision to life, and a tip is a wonderful way to show them just how much you appreciate their efforts.
Lastly, in addition to tipping, one of the most meaningful ways to show your appreciation for your wedding vendors is by leaving a glowing 5-star review on Google. Positive reviews not only help vendors build their reputation, but they also serve as a powerful form of word-of-mouth referral. When couples shares their love for a vendor online, it gives others the confidence to choose that vendor for their own special day. A well-crafted review can make all the difference in a vendor’s business, and it’s a simple, thoughtful way to say “thank you” for their hard work. It’s one of the best ways you can pay it forward and support the people who helped make your wedding unforgettable.
Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love story, and showing gratitude to the people who help make it extraordinary is an essential part of the experience.
XO, Brittany
If you’re still unsure about what wedding date works best for you, I’d love to help! As a seasoned wedding planner, I know that a little expert guidance goes a long way. Together, we can navigate your options and make sure your big day is perfect from start to finish. Are you looking for some more resources? Here are two of my most helpful blog posts! How to Make Your Wedding Budget and How to Make Your Guest List
At Wild Bloem Studios, we’re here to make the planning process as easy and stress-free as possible. Let’s get started on your dream wedding today!
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