Tips for vendors?

The only people I tipped were the servers that my caterer provided. And even that wasn’t very much since we paid gratuity in our bill. All my other vendors were owners of their company (photographer, DJ, florist, bartender). I believe I also tipped my hair and makeup stylist. I’m sure I did since she doesn’t own the shop, but i don’t remember.
In my opinion tipping has gotten out of control and everyone at every turn expects a tip on top of their fee. Tip those who you feel/felt went out of their way to provide top quality service or something extra to your day.

The only vendors who should be tipped are those who actively go above and beyond the call of duty for you. Never tip vendors who are no shows, have bad service and who just show up to do their job with little to show for it. That is why it is recommended that you do not tip the day of but wait until after the honeymoon when you can objectively assess their performance with a clear head. Tipping is pressured more in the wedding industry even though employees of vendors have a guaranteed liveable wage, unlike the waiters at the local steakhouse you visit on date night, because they feel they are providing a higher quality of service, even when that is not always the case. Tipping is always optional and you should never feel pressured to do so. Especially because people expect a tip (to receive and for you to give others) for horrible service and just existing.


If they own their own business and still went above and beyond for you, feel free to tip them or give a small gift of equal value they may like.
Read over contracts to make sure you are not being automatically charged for a tip. Caterers and bartenders use the term “gratuity” to mean a tip and it is often a required charge so don’t double tip.

Hi Alejandra! First priority is making sure you tip all delivery crews / drivers, waitstaff, and bartenders!! Beyond that tipping is optional and you can use this article for guidance:

Exactly How Much To Tip Wedding Vendors: A Complete List