A Guide to Tipping Destination Wedding Vendors

Hey there, fabulous couples! 🌟

Planning a destination wedding is like creating a magical adventure, and just like any epic quest, you’ve got an amazing team helping you along the way. Showing your appreciation with a little extra love (aka tips) is a wonderful way to thank the superstars who make your big day unforgettable. Let’s dive into the fun world of tipping wedding vendors and spread the love!

all photos in post are by Gaber Studio

General Tipping Guidelines

1. Budget for Tips: Planning ahead means more time to relax and celebrate! Include tips in your wedding budget to keep things stress-free.
2. Cash is King: Nothing says “thank you” like a crisp bill in an envelope. Label them to make tipping a breeze.
3. Timing: Hand out those tips at the end of the event, or let your wedding planner (that’s me!) or a trusty friend take care of it.

Vendor-Specific Tipping Suggestions

1. Catering Staff
   • Tip: Often included in the contract; if not, 15-20% of the total bill
   • Amount: $20-$50 per server
   • When to Tip: End of the reception
2. Bartenders
   • Tip: 10-15% of the total bar bill
   • Amount: $10-$20 per bartender
   • When to Tip: End of the reception
3. Hair and Makeup Artists
   • Tip: 15-25% of the service fee
   • Amount: $50-$100 per artist
   • When to Tip: At the end of the service
4. Photographer/Videographer
   • Tip: Optional
   • Amount: $50-$200 per professional
   • When to Tip: End of the reception or after receiving the final photos/videos
5. Musicians/DJ
   • Tip: 10-15% of the fee
   • Amount: $25-$100 per musician, $50-$200 for a DJ
   • When to Tip: End of the reception
6. Officiant
   • Tip: Often a donation to their church/organization
   • Amount: $50-$100
   • When to Tip: Before the ceremony
7. Wedding Planner/Coordinator
   • Tip: Optional but appreciated
   • Amount: 10-20% of their fee, or a nice gift
   • When to Tip: At the end of the reception or after the honeymoon
8. Delivery and Setup Staff
   • Tip: Optional, but appreciated for hard work
   • Amount: $5-$10 per person
   • When to Tip: Upon delivery or setup completion
9. Transportation
   • Tip: Often included in the contract; if not, 15-20%
   • Amount: $20-$50 per driver
   • When to Tip: End of the service

Special Considerations for Destination Weddings

• Local Customs: Every country has its quirks—check out the local tipping customs to fit right in.
• Currency: Tip in the local currency unless the vendor says otherwise.
• Service Charges: Keep an eye on those contracts! Sometimes service charges are already included, especially at all-inclusive resorts.

Final Thoughts

Tipping is like giving a high-five for a job well done. It’s not always mandatory, but it’s a fabulous way to show your gratitude to the people who make your wedding day sparkle. Hand over those tips with a big smile and a heartfelt thank you!