Vendor Gratuity: What To Know

Here’s the deal. Weddings and vendors bookings can definitely be expensive, but vendors who offer their service and time, and go above and beyond what is expected, deserve a tip, a gift, or at the very least, a ‘thank you’ card.

That is why I always recommend working a gratuity INTO your initial vendor budget schedule. That way it doesn’t come up as a surprise or unforeseen expense later on.

Not every vendor needs a gratuity! But a ‘thank you’ card is always encouraged.

Ultimately the decision to give gratuity is up to you, but here is an easy system and calculation to follow if you decide to tip the vendors.

Here is my recommended tipping chart:

Expected gratuity tips:

• Delivery/set up team - for exemplary service. This includes anyone who delivers something to the venue and sets it up, whether it’s an outdoor tent, tables and chairs, desserts, flowers, etc.

  • $5-20 per person, depending on duration of set up and time spent

  • To be given at time of delivery

• Officiant

  • $50-100, or $100 to $500 donation to their church, or gift

  • To be given at rehearsal/rehearsal dinner

• Hair stylist and makeup artist

  • 15-20% of services

  • To be given after their services are completed on the wedding day

Check your contract first*:

* if gratuity is already not included in your contract then tip:

• Bartenders

  • 10-20% of the alcohol bill

  • Give at end of reception or services

• Caterer

  • 10-20% of the food bill

  • Give at end of reception or services

• Transportation

  • 15-20%

  • Upon pick up or after last ride

• Venue attendants and staff

  • $1-2 per guest count served or $20-25 per attendant/staff

  • $1 per car for parking valets

  • I usually recommend giving the head attendant the gratuity tip and ask for them to split it evenly among staff

  • Also consider if there is a head chef or attendant, I usually recommend gifting them an additional $50-100 each

  • Give at end of reception or services

Optional tips:

• Day-of wedding coordinator

  • 15-20% of services or a gift

  • Give at end of reception or services

• DJ/Musicians

  • 10-15% of total bill or around $20 to each musician

  • Give at end of their performance

• Photo Booth attendant

  • $25-100 depending on duration of service

  • Give at end of the reception or services

• Photographer/Videographer

  • $50-200 each or a gift

  • Give at end of the reception or services

• Florist

  • Not expected, but a gift is always welcome

Hope this helps! Need more wedding planning tips and tricks? Check out the Naomi Hill Wedding Planner.