Tip Talk
a little Guide to Vendor Tipping
Happy couples- One detail of wedding planning that is often forgotten until the last minute is tipping. Who should you tip? How much? Is it even expected? Don’t worry friends, we’ve got you covered!
In the Central Virginia area, most of your wedding vendors are small business owners who pour their heart and hustle into your day. Tipping is a thoughtful way to say “we appreciate you, and we’re so grateful.”
Expected vs Courtesy Tipping
When it comes to weddings, there are generally two kinds of tipping:
Expected tips: These are the ones everyone typically thinks of- catering staff, bartenders, transportation drivers, hair and makeup artists, etc. Their jobs are very service-focused, so gratuities are traditionally part of the plan.
Courtesy tips: These aren’t going to be found in any of Emily Post’s articles, but they mean the world to your vendors. Maybe your florist stays to transfer ceremony flowers, or your rental delivery crew unloads or sets up a larger order than normal, a little extra thank you shows huge appreciation.
Expected tips keep you covered on etiquette. Courtesy tips let you sprinkle kindness where it’s most deserved.
Suggested Tipping Guide
Here’s a simple guide for you to use when planning for tipping your vendors.
A Note on Catering and Bar
Catering teams and bartenders are some of the hardest-working people at your wedding. They’re on their feet all night keeping glasses full, food hot, and your guests happy. A gratuity for both the banquet manager and the service staff is customary here.
Pro Tip: Watch your contract language. A “service fee” is not the same thing as a tip. That fee usually goes to the catering company, not the staff. Some venues with in-house catering do include gratuity, though, so check before you double pay.
When Vendors Go Above & Beyond
Weddings are live events, which means vendors often jump in behind the scenes to save the day. Maybe your photographer ties the guy’s bowties when no one else can figure it out, or your harpist tackles a sudden rain plan with ease and grace. Even if those roles don’t require a tip, giving one when someone goes the extra mile is always a lovely gesture.
More Than Money
If finances are tight, there are still thoughtful ways to show your gratitude. A handwritten thank-you note or a small gift can make someone’s day. Leaving a 5-star review is priceless for small businesses, and sharing photos or tagging your vendors on social media helps them reach new clients.
How to Handle Tips Smoothly
The best way to make sure everyone is taken care of? Place cash tips (so that tips can be dispersed to a vendor team on event day) in labeled envelopes ahead of time and hand them to your coordinator. We’ll discreetly deliver them during your rehearsal or wedding day, so you don’t have to think about it.
The Bottom Line
Tipping isn’t about checking a box, it’s about gratitude. Whether it’s cash, a gift, or a glowing review, showing appreciation reminds your vendors that their hard work made your day unforgettable. A little extra really does go a long way.
