The Bride’s Guide to Gratuity

Tipping vendors and wedding service providers can be tricky. Here’s guide to whom to tip, how much, and when during the wedding day to do so. Hair Stylist/Makeup Artist How Much: 15 to 25 percent; 30 percent if work done on-site When: Time of service Ceremony Musician How much: $20 to $25 per person When: After the ceremony DJ How much: $50 to $150 When: At the end of the night or within a few days with a thank-you note Wedding Planner How Much: 15 to 20 percent When: At the end of the night or within a few days with a thank-you note On-Site Coordinator How Much: 15 to 20% of the food and drink fee (usually between $100 and $300) When: At the end of the night Wait Staff/Bartenders How much: $20 to $30 per waiter and $25 to $40 for each bartender, depending on the type of bar service, if not already included in your total price When: At the end of the night (give the money to banquet manager) Rental Delivery People How much: $5 to $10 per person When: Time of service Officiant How much: Often a donation to the house of worship - anywhere from $100 to $500 - will be made in lieu of payment/gratuity. For nondenominational officiants, anywhere from $50 to $100 (on top of the fee) or an invite to the reception is a nice gesture. When: After the ceremony Drivers How much: 15 to 20%, often included in the contract When: Time of service