Who Do I Tip At My Wedding?

By: Kathleen | Posted: 30th March 2007

Generally, speaking, many wedding vendors are paid a flat fee, in advance, for their services. They don’t expect to be tipped. These include florists, photographers, musicians and bakers. Others falling into this category include catering managers, hotel banquet managers, bridal consultants, waiters and waitresses. However, if you feel that you have received extraordinary floral arrangements, a first rate wedding cake, or other services above and beyond what you expected, you can give a gratuity of up to 15%.

When you read the contract from your caterer you will see that a gratuity of 18% to 20% will be added to your bill. This is sometimes called a service fee or service charge. If your catering manager saved you a few hundred dollars on your bill or has provided extra food, you may choose to tip him between $50-$100. The bartender should be tipped, based on the bar bill, usually between 15% and 20%.

There are different opinions on tipping the officiant. Some say it is bad etiquette to tip the officiant above the standard fee. They say you should make a contribution to the church instead. However, most clergymen have come to expect a gratuity of $75 to $100. If there is travel involved, an additional gratuity is welcome. A judge or Justice of the Peace should receive a gratuity of $50 to $75.

Limousine drivers expect a tip of 15%. Read your contract in case the tip has already been included. Fees for the church organists and musicians may be included with the rental fee for the church. If this is not the case, then a gratuity of $35 to $50 for each person is acceptable. Valet parking attendants usually receive $.50 to $1.00 per car, and a sign should be posted outside that the gratuity has been taken care of.

It is always a good idea to send a thank you card to all the vendors from whom you received great service on your wedding day. You never know when you might need the services of these people again. They will love the acknowledgement, use it to help them book future clients, and guarantee you great service the next time.




Kathleen Terrana is the owner of Beautiful Bridal specializing in discount tiaras, veils, bridal and bridesmaid jewelry. Visit our site for additional tips, advice and information.
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Tags: wedding day, floral arrangements, officiant, wedding vendors, wedding cake, waiters, valet parking, waitresses, caterer, gratuity