Tipping wedding vendors is customary for service staff and anyone who isn’t the business owner, but amounts vary by region and contract. Treat the ranges below as common guidance, and always check what your contract already includes.
Common tipping ranges
| Vendor | Commonly suggested |
|---|---|
| Catering staff (if gratuity not included) | 15–20% of the food and drink bill, or about $20–$50 per server |
| Bartenders (if not included) | 10–15% of the bar bill, split among bartenders |
| Hair and makeup | 15–25% of the service total |
| Photographer / videographer | Optional for owners; about $50–$200 per assistant or second shooter |
| DJ | Optional; often $50–$150, or 10–15% |
| Band or musicians | About $25–$50 per musician |
| Officiant | Often $50–$100, or a donation to the house of worship |
| Transportation | 15–20% of the bill (check if included) |
| Delivery and setup staff | About $10–$20 per person |
| Planner or coordinator | Optional; a thank-you gift, note or a tip that reflects the service |
A sample tipping budget
For a wedding where gratuity is not already in the contracts:
| Who | Basis | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Catering staff | 15–20% of a $12,000 food and drink bill | $1,800–$2,400 |
| Hair & makeup | 15–25% of $1,200 | $180–$300 |
| Two photo and video assistants | $50–$200 each | $100–$400 |
| DJ | Optional | $50–$150 |
| Officiant | Often | $50–$100 |
| Four delivery and setup staff | $10–$20 each | $40–$80 |
| Total | $2,220–$3,430 |
Put a tipping line in your budget from the start; it is one of the most commonly forgotten costs.
When to hand them out
Put cash in envelopes labeled with the vendor’s name and amount the week before. Give them to one person — a coordinator, a parent or the best man — to hand out at the end of each vendor’s work. Delivery tips can be given at drop-off.
Tips that aren’t money
A glowing online review, a tag in your photos and a handwritten note are hugely valuable to small wedding businesses.
The tipping planner builds your envelope list and total from your vendor list.
The envelope checklist
If service falls short
Tips are a thank-you for good service. If something went wrong, speak to the vendor or manager after the wedding rather than on the day. Contracted service charges are still owed; an extra tip is your choice.
General information, not legal, medical or financial advice. Confirm details with your vendors, venue, officiant and local authorities.
Questions people ask
Do you tip the wedding photographer?
It is optional if they own the business. Associate photographers and assistants are commonly tipped about $50–$200 each.
Do you tip if there is a service charge?
Ask whether the service charge goes to staff. If it doesn’t, many couples tip staff separately.
When do you give vendors their tips?
At the end of their service on the day, via a trusted person, or at delivery.
Should wedding tips be cash?
Cash in labeled envelopes is easiest on the day. Some vendors accept digital payments; ask in advance if you prefer that.
Do you tip the venue coordinator?
It is optional. If they went above and beyond, a tip or gift is appreciated. Check whether their service is already covered by a service charge.
