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!
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)
$50 to $200 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%
You can even think beyond monetary gifts by referring your family & friends to book potential clients or writing an awesome review!
