Who do I tip and who do I thank?
You thank everyone who worked on your wedding. A simple thank you note is a great way to express your appreciation for their efforts. When writing your thank you note, keep in mind that the vendor may want to use it on their web site testimonial page, after all that is probably one of the many reasons you picked them for your wedding. So be honest in your praise and appreciation.
As far as tipping goes, you don’t have to tip anyone you don’t want to. If a particular person or vendor stands out from the rest and you feel that they went above and beyond what was expected then a tip is in order. Also consider if the person is working independently or for a company. If they are an independent then you may not need to tip as they are retaining your whole fee. If they are an employee of a company then you may want to tip them as most of the fee you paid will go to the company and not the employee.
Most venues add in a tip/gratuity/service fee/labor fee for their wait staff and set up/clean up staff so you should not tip unless the staff goes beyond the expected service.
We all love to get tips, as it tells us that we did an exceptional job, but tipping is not expected as we charge enough to cover our expenses and profit margin. The best tip you can give your wedding planner and other vendors is by referring everyone you know to us. If you know someone who is getting married give them the contact information for all of your vendors and suggest they call or ask them if you can give your wedding planner their number.
Your Wedding Planner can assist you in determining who should be tipped and who you should thank.
The following should always be tipped:
· Your hair and makeup person 10% to 20%
· The Church organist if they are not independently hired by you. $25 to $100
· Your Officiant $25 - $100
· Your Bartender $1 to $3 per guest or let them put a tip jar on the bar or a combination of both. (Exception to this is if there is a venue policy in regard to tipping and tip jars for the bar staff)
· Limo Driver if you have not pre paid their tip. Most limo companies will ask you to include the driver tip when you pay the contract.
Remember, talk with your Wedding Planner, They can help you work tipping into your budget.
