Tipping

Do you tip florist, DJ, photographer? If so, how much is normal?

General Tipping Suggestions:

Catering: There are package deals - get detailed list of what's included: sales tax, gratuities and bar fees etc.. These may greatly increase your wedding budget.

Caterer, Club manager, hotel banquet manager = 15-20% of the food & drink bill. Just 10% of the bill if there is also a maitre d'hotel. Reception host may be asked to pay the bill in advance. If not covered, the host or wedding consultant pays in an envelope during the reception.

Maitre d'hotel - 15 -20% of food & drink bill or $1.50 - $5.00 per guest. The reception host or wedding consultant pays in an envelope near the end of the reception.

Waiters, Waitresses, table captains - usually not tipped directly. Maitre d'hotel often divides his tip.

Bartenders 10% of the total liquor bill.

Powder room attendants $.50 - $1.00 per guest or arrange gratuity with hotel etc.

Parking attendants - same

Limousine drivers 15 -20% of total Limo bill.

Delivery truck drivers for florist, baker, etc. - $5.00 - $10.00 each

The reception host or wedding consultant offers in envelopes at the end of the reception.

Note: Hiring a D.J. will be less expensive than hiring live musicians. Most charge a set fee, amount should be specified as well as overtime rates, late arrival penalties etc., in your contract. Also allow for a tip at the end of the evening.

Clergy members usually receive a donation to the house of worship ($20.00 & up) ask church secretary or sexton - What is the suggested fee? If there are no payment guidelines, give the clergy member a gift.

Ask if fees for alter servers, sextons, cantors, choir, directors and organists are included in the church or synagogue fee; an additional gift or money amount may be appropriate.

[Answer compliments of Dianna Emerson, Bonne Foi Bridals & Weddings]