Gratuity Guide
Below is a recommended gratuity guide compiled by our team, based on common practices we've observed over time.
Please remember, gratuity is entirely optional — it’s never expected but always appreciated!
If you choose to tip, we suggest cash for convenience, though the method is ultimately up to you. For ease, you might prepare individual labeled envelopes for each vendor, which your planner can distribute throughout the day. For groups like servers or valet staff, a single envelope is perfectly fine, allowing them to divide it later. Cash in these cases is often easiest for everyone.
Note: This is a general guide, so some items may not apply to your event. Be sure to review your contracts to check if gratuity is already included, as noted for specific vendors below.
Venue/Reception Staff
On-Site Coordinator/Maître d' — check your contract, as it may recommend a gratuity of 3-5% of your total food and beverage bill.
Bridal Attendant — $150-200.
Bartenders — $100-150 per bartender or up to 15% of the service fee.
Servers — if gratuity isn’t included in your contract, consider tipping 15-20% of the total bill. Alternatively, you can offer $50-100 to the captain/lead server and $20-50 per additional server. (This can be given in one envelope for the lead server to distribute.)
Officiant
$100-200, or consider asking if they would prefer a donation to their church, synagogue, or other religious organization.
Transportation
15-20% of the total cost.
Valet
$1-2 per car.
Florist
$25-40 per person setting up. (This can be given in one envelope for the lead florist to distribute.)
Photography and Videography
$200-300 for lead staff, $100-150 per assistant, or 15-20% of the total amount, at your discretion.
Wedding Planner
10-20% of the total service amount.
Hair and Makeup
20% per artist.
Entertainment
$50-100 per musician for multiple musicians.
$150-250 for one DJ.
Rental Companies
$25-40 per person setting up.