Tipping Tips
You’ve budgeted for every last penny and think you’ve accounted for every possible wedding expense, but what about the tip? Yes, tipping is expected, and it’s a great way to say thank you to all those vendors who helped make your wedding day special.
be prepared
Make someone responsible for delivering tips, usually the best man.
Separate each tip into separate envelopes—do this ahead of time, and label each one for the recipient.
Check to see if gratuity is already added into the bill. You don’t want to double-tip, and sometimes gratuity is taxable. Check with vendors on tipping policies.
Keep an additional envelope on hand with a little extra cash in case you forget a tip or need a larger one.
Set aside 15 percent of your wedding budget for tipping.
whom to tip
The maitre d’ will split his/her bonus with the wait staff (typically 15–20 percent of the food and drink bill); don’t tip them directly.
Caterers should receive 15–20 percent of the food and drink bill, but only 10 percent if there is a maitre d’.
Bartenders should receive 10 percent of the total liquor bill.
Powder and coatroom attendants usually receive about $.50–$1 per guest, or arrange a gratuity bill with the hotel or club management.
Parking attendants will usually receive $.50–$1 per car. Make sure to pay this before guests start to arrive and display a sign stating, “Gratuities have been arranged by the host.”
Limousine drivers receive 15–20 percent of the total limousine bill. Delivery truck drivers for florist, baker, etc., will usually receive $5–$10 each.
Musicians and deejay are optional, but if you do decide to tip them, $20–$25 each is appropriate.
