December 18, 2008
Should You Tip the Wedding Planner?
The first thing to take note of is just who you should be tipping. One rule of thumb for this is to take a look at the final bill. Today, most of the opportunities for tips are often applied right to the final bill.
However, which services rate a tip and how much is reasonable? It is also important to know when to tip. There are a number of different opportunities when you will have to give a tip. Some of these times are listed here and deserve attention.
Those that include a tip already in the final bill may be the caterer, the banquet managers, waiters, bartenders, and bridal consultants. Here, a tip is generally about 15%, but should only be provided if the service is over and beyond the standard since you are already tipping them in the bill.
Should you tip the limousine Driver? The answer is, yes, but check the original contract to see if the tip is already included there. If it is included then, no. If it is not included, then a 15% gratuity is appropriate.
Florists, musicians and photographers are vendors that usually deserve a tip. If they do not list a gratuity in the contract, then a of 15% or even 20% is appreciated. For excellent service a larger gratuity is also proper and welcome.
Priests, Rabbis and Clergymen. This is one tip not to be forgotten as it is not provided elsewhere. The groom should provide a tip to be given by the best man to the official. Commonly, this amount should not be less than $200. While it is a donation, it should always be provided. More should be provided if the official had to drive a long distance. If under contract with the Wedding Planner then the amount could be less. If the Officiant has a set fee then that should be the minimum amount and a tip could be 15% of that amount.
Musicians and organists at the ceremony. These services may have gratuity in the contract, so make sure that you check first. This is only the case if you actually rent the church for use. If not, then a tip should be provided as well. The tip can range form $40 to $75 depending on the amount of service and the quality that is provided.
Gratuities must not be forgotten. The groom is responsible for the tipping. If he cannot remember or is too busy, then he should ask the Best Man to do this. Showing appreciation through tipping is in keeping with proper wedding etiquette.
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