We're diving into the heart of wedding planning today – the often overlooked but oh-so-important topic of tipping your incredible wedding vendors. Think of it as the icing on the cake, the final bow on a perfectly wrapped present – it's your way of saying, "You rocked our world, and we appreciate you!" So, grab your cup of coffee or tea, and let's chat about the art of tipping with style.

Why Tipping Matters: A Love Note to Your Vendors

Your wedding vendors are not just professionals doing a job; they are the architects of your dream day, the unsung heroes behind the scenes making sure everything sparkles with magic. Tipping is more than a gesture; it's a way to express gratitude for their hard work, dedication, and for going above and beyond to make your wedding day absolutely perfect.

The Budget-Friendly Reminder

First things first – let's talk budget. When you're meticulously planning every penny, it's crucial to factor in gratuities for your wedding vendors. Consider it an investment in ensuring everyone on your dream team feels the love and appreciation they deserve.

How to Incorporate Tipping into Your Budget:

1. Include a Tipping Category: When creating your wedding budget, set aside a specific percentage for gratuities. This ensures that expressing your gratitude is a planned and joyful part of the process.

2. Allocate Based on Service: Consider the level of service provided by each vendor. Those who go the extra mile might deserve a little extra love.

3. Anticipate Last-Minute Adjustments: Keep a small buffer for unexpected surprises or vendors who exceed your expectations. A little extra tip can go a long way in showing your appreciation.

The Art of Tipping: Who, When, and How Much?

Now, let's break it down. Who gets a tip, when should you tip, and how much is just right? It's a bit like a dance, but don't worry – we've got the perfect steps for you.

1. The Who (but not limited to just these vendors):

• Catering and Bar Staff: 15-20% of the total bill is the sweet spot for these unsung heroes. Most often the gratuity is included in your final bill so always double-check and make sure how they distribute the tips to the team at your wedding.

• Photographer/Videographer: A good amount is $200-$500, but that depends on whether you hired an associate photographer or if you had the owner of the company.

• Hair and Makeup Artists: 15-20% of the total bill, just like a salon visit.

• Florist: A flat fee of $10-$500 for their bloomin' beautiful work.

• Entertainment (DJ/Band): $50-$100 per member.

• Wedding Planner: This is the hardest area for us since we are talking directly to our clients about this. Its great to tip your wedding planner and their team member(s). Typically its $200-$500 for the wedding planner and $50-$100 per team member.

2. The When:

Timing is everything. We recommend placing your cash tips in sealed envelopes, ready for distribution, during the rehearsal, or when we arrive onsite on the wedding day. This ensures a smooth and stress-free process, allowing you to focus on the love and excitement of the day.

3. The How Much:

Remember, these are just guidelines. If a vendor has gone above and beyond, feel free to adjust accordingly. Tipping is about recognizing exceptional effort and making sure your gratitude is felt.

The Envelope Exchange: Spreading the Love

As your trusty wedding planner, we've got a little secret to share – the magic of the envelope exchange. Handing out tips can be a logistical challenge on your big day, so we've got you covered. Simply seal your cash tips in labeled envelopes during the rehearsal or before the wedding day. Hand them over to us, and we'll ensure each vendor gets their well-deserved token of appreciation after they've given their all to make your day perfect.

Spread the Joy!

In the end, tipping is not just a transaction – it's a beautiful way to spread joy, show gratitude, and ensure that your wedding vendors know their hard work has been noticed and cherished. Show the love, spread the joy, and let your wedding day be a symphony of appreciation and unforgettable moments. 💖✨

Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 18 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.