Tipping Guide For Your Awesome Wedding Vendors!
- Willmus Weddings
- Dec 14, 2016
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 9

While tipping is not a mandatory expense, it is a thoughtful gesture especially for those vendors that worked so hard to put your big day together. BUT with so many different wedding expenses, gratuities can definitely add up!
Here is a San Diego Wedding Planner's guide on what to tip each of your awesome wedding ceremony & reception vendors so there are no surprises later!
*ATTENTION: certain vendors may already include gratuity so make sure to read each contract carefully!
💰 Who to Tip & How Much
Catering/Staff
15% - 20% OR each server should receive between $20-$50 each, chef between $50-$100 each, venue coordinator $100-$200 (double check contract to make sure gratuity not already included)
Bartenders
15% to 20% (If not accepting tips from guests. Double check contract to make sure bartender gratuity not already included)
DJ's/Band
15% - 20% (gratuity is not usually required, but a tip is a wonderful gesture for excellent service)
Musicians
$25-$50 (per person)
Wedding Planners / Coordinators
10% - 20% (gratuity is not usually required, but a tip is a wonderful gesture for excellent service)
$100 to $300 per vendor (gratuity is not usually required, but a tip is a wonderful gesture for excellent service)
Florists
10-15% (gratuity is not usually required, but a tip is a wonderful gesture for excellent service)
Cake Delivery
$10-$15 (per person)
Restroom and Coat Check Personnel
$1 per guest (if not accepting tips from guests)
Parking Attendants
$1-$2 per car (if not accepting tips from guests)
Officiants
$100-$500 (donation to church)
$50-$100 (non-denominational)
Transportation Drivers
15% to 20% (double check contract to make sure gratuity not already included)
Hair & Make-up
15% to 20%

📝 Our Pro Tipping Tips
Assign a trusted tip-giver (planner, parent, or MOH).
Label envelopes with the vendor’s name and role.
Include a thank-you card with the cash—it’s the little things!
Want to tip digitally? Ask vendors in advance if they accept Venmo or Zelle.
💡 Bonus: How to Say Thank You Without Cash
Tight on budget? Don’t worry. There are so many meaningful ways to show appreciation:
Leave a glowing review on Google, The Knot, or Yelp
Refer them to newly engaged friends!
💍 Final Thoughts
Tipping is never mandatory, but it’s a powerful way to express gratitude. Behind every beautiful wedding is a team of vendors pouring their heart into your day. Trust us—they’ll remember your kindness.
Need help managing tips, timelines, or all the wedding-day details? At Willmus Weddings, we’re here to plan with heart and handle it all—beautifully.
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