VENDOR GRATUITY GUIDE
GRACE’S GUIDE ON WHO TO TIP AND WHEN
As your wedding day approaches, we’d like to address a topic that often arises: showing appreciation to your dedicated vendor team. We understand how grateful you are for their efforts in bringing your vision to life, and we'd like to offer some guidance on expressing that gratitude.
First and foremost, we want to emphasize that tipping is entirely optional. However, if you choose to show your appreciation through a cash tip, gift card, or thoughtful present, it's always warmly received. A personal note accompanying your gesture can make it even more special.
To ensure a smooth experience on your wedding day, we're happy to assist with distributing any gratuities on your behalf. If you decide to tip, we kindly ask that you prepare individual, labeled envelopes for each vendor category. This allows us to handle the distribution efficiently, leaving you free to enjoy your special day without worry.
Remember, your vendors invest considerable time and effort into making your day extraordinary. Whether through a tip, a gift, or simply a heartfelt "thank you," your appreciation means a great deal to them. And it means just as much to us at Grace Heller Events. Thank you for your kindness and consideration. We're truly grateful to partner with wonderful couples like you.
If you have any questions about this process, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to make your wedding journey as seamless and joyful as possible.
xx, Grace
Wedding Planner
As your wedding designer and planner, my greatest reward is seeing your vision come to life and knowing that your day was everything you dreamed of. While no gratuity is expected, my generous client’s choose to offer a token of appreciation to recognize the countless hours and dedication put into every detail.
What we typically see? Should you wish to express your gratitude, a thoughtful gift, monetary tips, or a heartfelt thank-you note is always cherished and serves as a beautiful reminder of the trust and collaboration we shared throughout your planning journey. Additionally, I typically bring 1 - 3 assistants on the day of (based on your production size) so anywhere from $50 to $150+ per assistant is generally appropriate.
When to Tip? At the end of the reception or in the days following the wedding.
Photographers & Videographers
Your photographer and videographer works tirelessly to capture every special moment of your wedding day, from the big events to the intimate details.
What we typically see? Typically between 5 and 10% of the total cost of service for the main photographer or videographer. If they brought assistants or a second shooter, anywhere from $50 to $150 per is appropriate. Alternatively, a thoughtful gift or a personal note of appreciation is always a meaningful way to show your gratitude for their creative contribution to your celebration.
When to Tip? Monetary tips should be given out at the end of the wedding night, before the coverage is over. If you are sending a physical gift, that’s always nice to send after you receive the assets.
Florist
Your florist plays a key role in the overall design and transforming our wedding vision into a stunning reality with every artistic arrangement.
What we typically see? Around 10% of the pre-tax total. For any assistants, $50 to $100 is generally appropriate.
When to Tip? Typically when they leave for the evening (if assistants are included) or when they arrive for breakdown.
Hair & Make Up
Your hair and makeup team work closely with you to ensure you look and feel your absolute best on your wedding day.
What we typically see? Same thing as if you were to go to the salon - typically 20% of the total cost of the service.
When to Tip? Typically after their services / before they depart for the evening if they are staying for touchups.
Officiant
Your officiant plays a meaningful role during the wedding to help create a ceremony that is tailored to your love and commitment.
What we typically see? Usually our clients choose to have a non-traditional officiant like their close friend or family member. In this case, our client’s typically gift them something sentimental. If it is a more traditional officiant anywhere between $50 - 100 is appropriate.
When to Tip? Before they depart after the ceremony or the day before during the ceremony rehearsal.
Musicians / DJ
Musicians or a DJ set the overall tone and elevates the atmosphere of your wedding, creating a beautiful backdrop for your celebration.
What we typically see? For live musicians, tip anywhere between $25 - $50 per person including the sound engineer. If you have a DJ, anywhere between $200 and $500 is appropriate.
When to Tip? Typically at the end of the evening.
Venue Staff
The venue staff plays a crucial role in ensuring the day runs smoothly, from setting up the space to serving our guests with care. Sometimes, the service charge is already included in the contract so it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time. In the case it’s not, here’s what we typically see.
What we typically see? 15-20% of your total venue service bill, usually it’s divided between all the staff members that are on-site on the wedding day.
When to Tip? At the end of the reception.
Caterer & Waitstaff
The catering team is instrumental in providing an exceptional dining experience for you and your guests, preparing exquisite dishes to ensuring seamless service throughout the event. If a service charge isn’t included in the contract, a gratuity is customary.
What we typically see? 15 to 20% of the total food and beverage cost. This fee needs to be divided up among all the servers and staff
When to Tip? At the end of the reception.
Bartenders
Your bartenders work hard to keep the drinks flowing quickly and your guests happy throughout your celebration.
What we typically see? This is dependent on the wedding size but typically for our 150 - 200 guests count, $300 - $500 is appropriate.
When to Tip? At the end of the reception.
Chauffeurs & Drivers
Our chauffeurs and drivers ensure that our guests are arriving to the site on time and ensure a seamless transition for guests that aren’t staying on site.
What we typically see? 15-20% of the pre-tax total if it’s not already included in the contract.
When to Tip? After the final ride of the evening.
Delivery Staff
This is typically for any staff that are delivering rentals, cakes, and other necessities.
What we typically see? $10-20 per delivery person.
When to Tip? At the end of each drop-off.
