How to tip wedding reception staff
Couples need not feel beholden to the many traditions that have become commonplace at wedding ceremonies over the years . Such traditions can be fun ways for couples to connect their ceremonies with those of their parents ’, grandparents ’ and even older generations , but couples can still pick and choose which traditions , if any , they want to embrace on their wedding day .
One tradition that ’ s not as flexible involves tipping wedding reception staff . It ’ s customary to tip reception staff , as these hardworking individuals earn much of their wages through tips . Though it ’ s always welcome to give exceptional staff members more than the standard suggests , the following rundown , courtesy of the wedding experts at The Knot , can help couples know how much to tip wedding reception staff .
• Wedding planner : A wedding planner likely isn ’ t expecting a tip , as these talented professionals typically work for a predetermined fee . But The Knot estimates that around half of all couples tip their wedding planners . The standard is between 10 and 20 percent ( up to $ 500 ), but couples also can consider a nonmonetary gift .
• Hairstylist / makeup artist : Gratuities are generally commonplace for hairstylists and makeup artists . Gratuities should be between 15 and 25 percent and can be given when the professionals have finished their work .
• Delivery persons and setup staff : A tip between $ 5 and $ 10 is sufficient for delivery personnel , such as the individual delivering the cake or flowers . Couples can always tip more if delivery staff are delivering more items over a lengthier period of time . For example , if the reception tables and chairs are being delivered to the reception , couples can tip delivery personnel a little extra .
• Officiant : Tipping officiants is not so simple . Couples who tie the knot outside a religious venue typically hire an officiant for a flat rate , and such individuals do not need to be tipped . Couples who are getting married in a house of
22 Community Life
worship may not pay their officiant directly , but a donation to the church or synagogue may be expected . Tips are not necessary in either of these examples , but couples can invite their officiant to their receptions if they so choose .
• Musicians : The standard for ceremony musicians is between $ 15 and $ 20 per musician , while reception musicians each receive around $ 25 to $ 35 . A wedding DJ may be accustomed to
receiving a tip between $ 50 and $ 150 .
• Reception staff : A tip for reception staff is typically included in the contract , so couples should consult their contract to determine if they ’ ve already tipped the staff . The Knot indicates the standard tip for reception staff is between 15 and 20 percent while the maître d ’ is typically tipped separately at around $ 200 to $ 300 .
• Photographer : The photographer often spends the most time with the bride and groom than any other vendor . This is especially true if they also do the proposal , engagement and bridal portraits . About 15-20 percent of their portrait package is a good tip .
• Reception attendants : Attendants include bartenders , waitstaff , parking attendants , bathroom , and coatroom staff . Like the reception staff , attendants ’ tips may already be included in the contract . If not , the restaurant standard of 20 percent applies to wedding receptions
Courtesy photo The following rundown , courtesy of the wedding experts at The Knot , can help couples know how much to tip wedding reception staff . as well . Parking lot attendants and coatroom / bathroom attendants can be tipped at around $ 1 per guest .
• Transportation : Gratuities for drivers are typically included in the contract as well . If not , a tip reflecting 15 to 20 percent of the total bill is the standard .
Gratuities reward the hardworking individuals who help to make couples ’ wedding days more special . Contracts should always be consulted before tipping staff , but couples also can feel free to go the extra mile when tipping exceptional staff members .