There are countless people who are involved in your wedding besides friends and family. For American weddings, it’s customary to tip these individuals, but the rules can different at your destination. Here’s your guide for tipping different vendors at your wedding.
The Officiant
Tipping is always appropriate for those who facilitate your wedding. Whenever you receive great service, it is a nice gesture to tip those who have provided you assistance. The amount of the gratuity is at your discretion. Suggested tipping amounts range from $20-$100 and are greatly appreciated.
The DJ or Band
Like the officiant and coordinator, tipping is appreciated along with great service. Many times your DJ or the band has downloaded or learned to play the music you have selected. They are also the ones getting the party started. Suggested tipping is $20/member to show your appreciation for their talent.
The Hair and Makeup Stylists
Always tip your hair and makeup stylists 15-20% of the total. Even in Central American and Caribbean countries like Mexico and Honduras have to pay salon fees to the shop owner and some rely mostly on tips.
The Bartender
Many brides think a tip jar looks tacky, and discourage their bartenders from setting one out. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t tip the bartender. Many guests will still push a few dollars his or her way throughout the event, and you can still slip him $20-$50 at the end of the night as a thank you.
The Wedding Planner
It’s especially important to tip your wedding planner for a destination wedding, as they’ve had to do most of the work since you’re in another country. Tips should range from $50-$500 depending on your wedding size, and can also come in the form of a nice gift.
Outside of exceptions like the wedding planner, the rule of thumb is that you shouldn’t tip vendors that work for themselves and can set their own prices. You’re more than welcome to tip if they go above and beyond — like the florist or rental company— but stick to tipping the servers and hotel or cruise employees that work to keep your guests happy. A standard tip for staff members is $5/person, and you can present it to the hotel manager or wedding planner before you leave.
When in doubt, ask your wedding planner, and they’ll advise you on the tipping customs of your destination wedding’s country.