Wedding Vendor Tipping Guide - Well Chosen Weddings

A Note From Chris Ramsay

Tipping your wedding vendors can often feel like one of the most confusing parts of budget planning. While some gratuities are expected, others are optional and reserved for extraordinary service. Use this checklist to prepare your tipping envelopes 1–2 weeks before your wedding day so you can hand them off to your coordinator and focus on celebrating!

Best Practices & Pro Tips

Prepare Early: Label envelopes 1–2 weeks prior to your wedding day.
Payment Formats: Use cash or Venmo depending on vendor preference.
Delegate Delivery: Assign your planner, coordinator, or MOH to distribute.
Review Contracts: Always check catering/venue contracts for auto-gratuity first.
Personal Thanks: A written note or online review is always appreciated alongside a tip.

Gratuity Benchmarks

Vendor	Standard Tip Rate	Notes & Guidelines
Caterers	15–20% of F&B total	Often included in contract service charges—double check prior to paying.
Bartenders	$50–$100 ea. OR 10–15% tab	Tip higher for signature cocktails or extraordinary service.
Hair & Makeup	15–25% of service total	Standard salon tipping guidelines apply.
Drivers / Transit	15–20% of total fare	Verify if auto-gratuity is already included in your contract.
Venue Staff	$50–$100 each	Applies to coat check, restroom, valet, and setup attendants.
DJ / Band Members	$50–$150 per person	Tip more if they go above and beyond with crowd energy.
Photographer	$50–$200 per person	Optional if business owner; expected for second shooters.
Videographer	$50–$200 per person	Optional if business owner; expected for second shooters.
Wedding Planner	$100–$500 or gift	Optional; reserved for exceptional service.
Officiant	$50–$100 tip / donation	Donate $100–$300 to house of worship if clergy.

Envelope Checklist

Catering Staff Envelope

Bartenders Envelope

Hair & Makeup Envelope

Drivers Envelope

Venue Staff Envelope

DJ / Musicians Envelope

Photographer Envelope

Videographer Envelope

Wedding Planner Envelope

Officiant / Donation Envelope