“How much do I tip my wedding vendors?” is a question every couple asks. The rules and customs surrounding vendor gratuities can be confusing and difficult to follow…and that’s why we made it easy for you.

We’ll break down which gratuities are required vs. which are simply a pleasant surprise, along with how much you should tip each of your vendors.

But first…we’re going to go over some basic do’s and don’ts around wedding vendor gratuity, so you feel more confident for your big day. Here are 8 tips for tipping your vendors.

1. Tipping is a custom.

For most vendors, tips have become a custom and aren’t necessarily expected. Of course, the extra compensation is a nice surprise for any vendor and helps them know how much they are appreciated by you.

2. Tip for great service.

And that leads us to why you tip. It’s important to remember that tipping comes not just from a custom, but because you received extraordinary service from a vendor. The amount or percentage you tip can change depending on the level of service for the job, along with industry norms.

3. Tips aren’t always cash.

Tips don’t necessarily need to come in the form of cash. There are plenty of other ways to say “thank you” without adding to your wedding budget, like a handwritten thank you note, a great online review, or a personal referral. Vendors like photographers, videographers, DJ, and others also appreciate a plate of food at your reception.

4. Check that you haven’t tipped already.

There are some vendors who will include gratuity in their contract, so it’s important to review contracts thoroughly. You don’t need to worry about additional tips when your caterer or transportation vendor includes a tip in their contract and fee with you.

5. Service fees don’t mean gratuity.

There are some vendors who also include service fees or administrative fees in their contracts and pricing. Remember these are not gratuities and you’ll still need to give tips when appropriate. 

6. Identify who the tip is for.

Traditionally, you don’t need to tip the owners of businesses, but you should consider tipping any employees. And for an even more case-by-case basis, consider the size of the company; many modern couples are tipping small business owners, but not large business owners.

7. Get organized.

There are plenty of last minute details to keep you busy right up until your wedding day; don’t let the tips be one of them. Go to the bank and withdraw all the cash you need for your gratuities and put them in labeled envelopes for each vendor.

8. Determine who is giving the tip.

Since any additional gratuity (outside of contracts) are given at the time of service, it’s not an ideal job for the bride or groom. (You have the important job of enjoying your wedding day!) Instead, assign a trusted friend or family member to hand off any tips to wedding vendors during or near the end of the reception.

Follow these 8 tips and you’ll be well on your way to tipping like a wedding pro. And stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll have the ultimate guide to tipping your vendors.

And for help with New England event rentals, give us a call at Sperry Tents Seacoast!