wedding tipping guide
C a t e r i n g
If your contract doesn't include gratuity, you should tip 15- 20% of the total bill. Another way to tip is offering
$50 to $100 for each chef and $20 to $50 per server.
B a r t e n d e r s
They make cash tips behind the bar. If you want to tip them a little extra – it is always appreciated! $100- $150
per bartender is recommended.
W e d d i n g p l a n n e r o r D a y o f C o o r d i n a t o r
10–20% of their fee, or up to $1,000. A thoughtful gift card or nice gift is also a suitable tip for your planner. $100 for assistants.
P h o t o g r a p h e r a n d V i d e o g r a p h e r
10-20% or $250-$500 is standard depending on how well your photographer did. $100 for assistants.
O f f i c i a n t
Oftentimes, officiants won't accept tips, but a $100 donation to their church is a great way to thank them. If the
officiant is non-denominational, consider giving them a $100 tip, especially if they aren't charging for your service.
H a i r a n d M a k e u p A r t i s t
A 15- 20% percent tip is expected, just like it would be for any other regular salon visit, but it isn't required.
B a n d o r D J
Offering a 15-20% tip is a nice gesture to your band or DJ, especially if they have to carry a lot of heavy
equipment from one location to the next. Or $150-$300 for a DJ. For musicians, a $50 to $100 tip per band member is appropriate.
P h o t o B o o t h A t t e n d a n t
$50.00
S h u t t l e B u s D r i v e r
(if all night) $75.00-$150.00
F l o r i s t
The florist doesn't expect a tip. However, if they do an outstanding job, you can consider giving them a 10- 15% or a gift card.
Keep this in mind: Though tipping at weddings has become more of a custom in all service areas, it isn't
mandatory or even expected by most wedding vendors. With the exception of the catering staff and possibly
hair + make up. tips are considered a nice surprise by almost all vendors. If you don't have the money to shell out
thousands more on tips, there are a few gestures that will go a long way with your team of wedding pros. Send
an email with a review, a handwritten thank-you note or a review on Google or Facebook are great ways to
show appreciation and offer something the vendor can use when booking future clients. Even better, refer your
vendors to your friends — this gesture will go much further than a cash tip!