Ask Jess - Wedding Vendor Tipping Etiquette: A Guide for Expressing Gratitude

As you embark on your journey to plan the perfect wedding day, it's essential to be aware of the etiquette surrounding tipping your vendors. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a customary way to show appreciation for the exceptional services rendered. However, determining which vendors to tip and how much can be perplexing. Plus there are so many variables that determine if you should or shouldn’t tip. In this guide, we will provide some insights into the wedding vendors you should consider tipping and offer general guidelines for appropriate tipping amounts.

However, the question of how much to tip wedding vendors doesn't have one-size-fits-all answer, as it depends on various factors. Here are some points to consider when deciding on a gratuity amount:

1. Quality of Service: First and foremost, evaluate the quality of service provided by your wedding photographer and videographer. Did they go above and beyond to capture every important moment? Was their work exceptional and exceeded your expectations? If you were exceptionally pleased with their services, it may warrant a more generous tip.

2. Package Pricing: Consider the overall pricing of your photography and videography package. Some studios or individual professionals may charge a higher fee upfront, which may include the vendors's gratuity. In such cases, tipping may not be necessary. However, if there is no mention of gratuity in your package, tipping can be a thoughtful gesture.

3. Budget Considerations: Evaluate your wedding budget and ensure to factor in gratuity for your wedding vendors, including photographers and videographers. It's important to remember that tipping is an extra expense that should be planned accordingly. Determine the overall percentage or amount you can allocate towards gratuity without straining your budget too much.

4. Industry Standards: It can be helpful to understand the industry standards and expectations when it comes to tipping wedding vendors. While there is no fixed rule, many couples often tip between 10% to 20% of the package. However, if you're on a tight budget, a smaller tip of $100-$200 is still be appreciated by most vendors, again though it is never expected and always appreciated.

5. Personalized Approach: Consider your relationship with the vendor. Did they feel like an integral part of your wedding day, capturing every precious moment? Did they connect with you on a personal level? If they went the extra mile to make you feel comfortable and captured your memories beautifully, you may want to show your appreciation through a more generous tip.

6. Thoughtful Gestures: Tipping doesn't always have to be in the form of cash. Sometimes, a personalized gift or a heartfelt thank-you note can be equally meaningful. You could consider giving them a small memento or booking them for an additional job in the future.

Remember, the decision to tip is entirely up to you as a couple. While it is customary, you should never feel obligated to tip if the service fell short of your expectations. Ultimately, the most important thing is to communicate your gratitude sincerely, whether through a tip or expressing kind words.

How tipping varies for each vendor

1. Wedding Planner:
Your wedding planner works tirelessly to bring your vision to life and coordinate all the essential elements of your special day. A gesture of gratitude is especially appropriate in this case. A tip of 10% to 20% of their fee, or a flat amount of $100 to $500, depending on the complexity and size of your wedding, would be a reasonable expression of appreciation.

2. Venue Coordinator:
The venue coordinator ensures that everything runs smoothly at the chosen location, from coordinating the setup to managing timelines. While tipping may not be customary, it is always a thoughtful gesture to show your gratitude. A tip of $100 to $300 would be suitable, or you could provide a small gift instead.

3. Catering/Waitstaff:
When it comes to tipping your catering and waitstaff, check your contract. Some venues include gratuity in the total cost. If it is not included, consider tipping servers and bartenders 15% to 20% of the total food and beverage cost. If the gratuity is included, a token of appreciation in the form of a small gift or a handwritten thank-you note is thoughtful.

4. Hair and Makeup Artists:
Your talented hair and makeup team are responsible for making you look radiant on your big day. It is customary to tip them 15% to 20% of their fee. If makeup and hair services are provided by the salon, consider tipping each individual artist separately.

5. Ceremony Officiant:
Your officiant plays a crucial role in solemnizing your marriage. In some cases, they may charge a fee, and tipping may be unnecessary. However, if your officiant is a family member or a close friend, a thoughtful gift or a small donation to their preferred charity would be an appropriate token of appreciation.

6. Musicians/DJs/Band:
The musicians, DJ, or band members not only set the mood but also keep your guests entertained throughout the celebration. For live musicians, consider tipping $25 to $50 per musician. For DJs or bands, a tip of 10% to 15% of their fee is reasonable.

7. Transportation Services:
If you have hired transportation services to shuttle your guests or provide a special getaway car, a gratuity of 10% to 18% of the total bill for the driver is customary.

8. Florist:
Flowers play a vital role in creating a beautiful ambience on your wedding day. Your florist meticulously designs stunning arrangements and ensures that everything blooms to perfection. While tipping is not customary for florists, it is a thoughtful gesture to express gratitude for their artistry and creative touch. You may consider tipping your florist around 10 to 15% of the total floral cost or presenting them with a cash gift. Alternatively, you can give a gift or provide a positive review to acknowledge the extraordinary work they have done.

9. Photographer:
A skilled wedding photographer captures the most precious moments of your special day, providing you with memories that will last a lifetime. Tipping your photographer is customary, as it signifies appreciation for their talent, expertise, and dedication. Typically, a tip of 10 to 20% of their total photography fee is suggested. You can also offer a thoughtful gift or leave a positive review to show your gratitude.

10. Videographer:
A videographer immortalizes your wedding day by capturing all the emotions, laughter, and tears in a cinematographic way. Similar to photographers, tipping is customary for videographers. Show your appreciation for their hard work by tipping around 10 to 20% of their total videography fee. Alternatively, you can give a gift or provide a positive review to acknowledge the extraordinary work they have done.


While tipping is a personal choice, it is an excellent way to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your wedding vendors. Always remember to review your vendor contracts, as some vendors may include gratuity or service charges. If you receive exceptional service, feel free to tip above the suggested amounts. Ultimately, expressing your gratitude in a meaningful way will be greatly appreciated by the wedding professionals who made your dream day come true.

At the end of the day, most vendors never expect tips, however it is always APPRECIATED.
Even if it isn’t monitary, a note of APPRECIATION goes a long way.

As always questions and comments are always welcome in the comments below.

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Kindness + love,

J