Who To Tip At Your Event

To tip or not to tip?

And how much?

You don’t want to look like a cheapskate, but you also don’t want tips to push you over budget.

Here’s what you need to know about tipping at your wedding or any other event you may be hosting.

Who Gets A Tip?

The general rule here is that anyone who provides a service and isn’t the business owner should get a tip.  Here in south west Saskatchewan, there are a lot of solopreneur business owners who do their own work rather than have employees.  In this case, it’s up to your own discretion.

Tips for other service providers are generally not expected and there are other ways to thank a business owner (see below).  If a tip is included in the contract, you do not need to add another one.  Obviously, for exceptional service, you can feel free to tip anyone and everyone, or to add to the required amount as you see fit.

*Officiants, especially clergy or family members, often don’t bill you or tell you how much to pay them.  In this case, the tip would be the entire payment.  The general rate is $150.

**A note about bartenders.  If you are tipping them as part of your payment to them, then you have every right to ask them not to put out a tip jar at the bar.  Many guests will still provide a tip to them, and they do not need to feel pressured into providing a tip when you are already taking care of it.

How Much To Tip?

This number is really at your discretion.   Once you’ve decided who to tip, just go with the number you would usually feel comfortable using at a restaurant or salon.  

It’s usually between 15-20% based on your preference and the quality of service.

Better Than A Tip: How To Thank Business Owners

If you’re already way over budget, or aren’t ready to provide a cash tip, there are two other wonderful ways to thank the small business owners who contributed to your wedding.

1. Write them a review.  After doing all your hiring research, I’m sure you know how important good reviews are when deciding who to work with.  Reviews are like gold to small businesses and this is an awesome way to thank them.  When you write your review, include details like your favourite thing about the service they provided, how they made you feel, or why you’re glad you hired them.
2. Send them a thank-you card.  This is more personal, but equally as appreciated.  Business owners can share the photo of the card as a form of review or testimonial, and we really appreciate that you went to the effort of writing it out and getting it to us.

And now you know. Happy tipping!