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The Tip!  Well, there’s no absolute in the area of tipping, but it generally applauds those who offer you great service and makes your day, just that little more special.  A side note, many vendors and venues actually charge a gratuity in their fee and so ask, check invoices to avoid paying double in this area…

Tipping On Your Wedding Day

GOLDEN RULE: Plan your tips as you go through your wedding timeline. This will ensure you won’t forget anyone!

HAIR AND MAKEUP:
Typically they are the first vendors to show up and they transform you from beautiful to stunning. TIP: 10% of their fee.

TRANSPORTATION
They do more than open the door for you (as long as they do). TIP: Each driver should get 10%-15% of their fee.

HOUSE OF WORSHIP or YOUR WEDDING OFFICIANT
Many houses of worship ask for a small donation in advance, so you may have that already squared away, but if not, $50-$100 is often given as a ‘Thank You’ for the man or woman who pronounces you Husband and Wife.  (Note: Not required or expected with Dream Weddings Canada, but always appreciated)

VENUE MANAGER
They oversee everything at your venue. TIP: $100-$200.

CEREMONY MUSICIANS
Show some applause! TIP: $25-50 per musician.

BAND MUSICIANS
Same here. The bandleader should get a tip anywhere from $150-$200 and then a suggested tip of $25-50 for each musician.

DJ
Hired a DJ instead to keep your guests moving all night long? TIP: 15% of their fee.

WAITSTAFF
Most likely you are paying a service charge for the waiters to serve your guests that night (take a peek at your contract), but a little extra is always appreciated. This is the same as if you were sitting at your favorite restaurant. TIP: 10%-15% for the team to divide among themselves.

Same goes for the BARTENDERS who keep the good times rolling. And they will! Suggested TIP for them: $200-$300 each.

CHEF
The chef is responsible for everything that your guests see and eat. If it is beyond what you expected, a tip is a good idea. Anything from $150-$250.

MAITRE D/CAPTAIN/CATERING MANAGER
This person handles all the operations of the venue. TIP: 1%-2% of your total bill.

ANY ASSISTANT
Has the DJ brought an assistant? Has the photographer or videographer brought an assistant? Chances are they have and they don’t go home with the same pay for the night that your contracted vendor does. You should throw them a little something. TIP $75-$100

And, of course, if you’d like, there are a few more behind-the-scenes hands…

BATHROOM ATTENDANT
He or she smiles, maybe hands a towel to guests and makes them feel a little bit more special for the night. TIP: $1 per guest.

COAT CHECK and VALET PARKING
No one wants to wait for their coat or their car when they are ready to go home! TIP: $1-$2 per guest for coat check, TIP: $2-$5 per guest for the valet.

That’s it!

Remember these folks helped you with the biggest and best party you will ever throw. Show them you appreciate it!