Groom Duties

Wedding Vendor Tipping: A Cheat Sheet

Cristiano Ostinelli

You’re an enlightened guy. You’re a good tipper. The odds are good, however, that you have no frickin’ clue how much to tip all the mob of caterers, photographers, bartenders, and wedding cake makers. This is your cheat sheet.

Caterer
Normally included in the contract. Check to verify.

Bartender
Usually 15% of total bar bill. Check upfront to see if included with the catering service charge. Note: they should not have a tip jar for your guests.

Waiters/Waitresses
Nope. Should be included in catering contract. Again, check to ensure.

Photographer/Videographer
Nope. Not necessary. If you feel like tipping, $50 should be enough.

Wedding Planner
Mercifully, no.

Limo driver
Check the contract. Assuming it’s not already included in your bill, tip 15%.

DJ/Band
If he/she’s the owner, don’t tip. If he/she’s an employee, consider $50-$100, based on performance.

Florist
What are you talking to a florist for? Have you gone insane? This one isn’t for you. And no, they generally don’t need tips.

Tuxedo shop
Nope.

Wedding Cake Bakers
Nah.

Valets
$1 per car, check and see if this is in the contract, and attendants shouldn’t accept tips from guests. Mention this on your wedding website and invitations.

Coat check
Also $1 per item. Also should be pre-contracted and pre-paid.

Join The Plunge (Don’t Worry: It’s Free)

Even More Groom Duties