There are a few schools of thought with regards to tipping. Many often wonder when it is appropriate or even expected. My philosophy is that one should look at tipping as if giving a gift. They’re not called gratuities for nothing! How much and what you tip should be reflective of your appreciation of the vendor’s service to you. If you have received good service, were well taken care of and are feeling generous, by all means – tip away!

I also feel that vendors should not go into a job, expecting to receive anything additional to the fees they have charged the client. If service providers feel so strongly about receiving something extra, it should be included right on the bill.

Here is a quick and easy guide to help you with general percentages regarding who and what amounts are typically used. Keep in mind that a wedding planner or best man can easily help in coordinating check/envelope and tip disbursement.

Tips to be coordinated with supervisors/managers in advance

• Bartending - 10% of the total liquor bill; best to include with final payment ahead of time with the catering/bartending manager.
• Waitstaff - 15% of the food bill; best to include with final payment ahead of time with the catering manager.
• Bathroom attendants – $1 per guest; best to coordinate with supervisor ahead of time.
• Coat check – $1 per guest; best to coordinate with supervisor ahead of time.
• Hotel chambermaids – $2 per room, $15 for the bridal suite (where the bride and her bridesmaids are getting ready); easiest to coordinate at the time you are paying for rooms.
• Limo/bus/van drivers – 15% of the total invoice; best to coordinate with supervisor ahead of time.
• Ceremony and/or cocktail musicians – 15% of the total invoice; best to coordinate with supervisor ahead of time.
• Valet - $1 – $2 per car; best to coordinate with supervisor ahead of time.

After services are rendered

• Hair and Make-up – 15% to 20% of the total bill. Although I am not stopping you from tipping, if you are so inclined, but traveling stylists and make-up artists do not expect gratuities.
• Altar boys and girls – $5 to $10 each. Your wedding planner or best man can handle disbursing this… no need to run back into Church in your wedding gown after just being proclaimed married!
• Photographer – Approximately $100 if the photographer is not the company owner.
• Videographer – Approximately $100 if the videographer is not the company owner.
• Florist and Floral Assistants – $5 to $10 per staff member per set-up location (ceremony site, cocktail site, reception site).

Just keep in mind that tips should come from a spirit of good-naturedness and abundance, not out of obligation! I can’t think of one service provider who would turn down the gracious offer, unless stated otherwise in their company policy. Acting from a feeling of prosperity and generosity makes everyone feel good.