In most restaurants, a large party will have gratuity added to the bill. But, that does not mean that this is the right amount to tip (it may be too high or too low) and it does not mean that you have to pay for it at that level If you pay gratuity in the final bill of your service provided for your wedding, should you give a tip on top of this to the service provider?
But, Which Services And How Much? Knowing when to tip is just as important. There are several opportunities that you will have to give a tip at. Here's a breakdown of some you should take note of.
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.
Should you tip Photographers, florists and musicians? If the tip is not provided in the contract, then a tip in the amount of 15% to 20% is appreciated. Of course, if the service exceeds expectations then more is appropriate.
Should the Rabbi, Priest, or Minister receive a Gratuity? This Gratuity should never be neglected since it is not usually provided somewhere else. The groom is responsible for this tip and should give the card and envelope to the best man to give to the Wedding Officiante BEFORE the ceremony as the minister often has to leave after the ceremony. This amount should not be less than $250. While it is a donation, it should always be provided. Also consider the distance the minister had to drive. When you consider that the wedding officiant is the one vendor that must be present for the wedding to actually take place and he or she must have the credentials, training, and skills to make your ceremony beautiful or not, then you realize what a bargain this truly is in the overall wedding budget.
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.
Proper Wedding Etiquette includes giving gratuities and should not be neglected. The Best Man can be assigned this responsibility if the Groom cannot or prefers not to do this. Following proper wedding etiquette in tipping shows genuine appreciation and class.
Posted under Wedding
This post was written by Belle B. Carrclum on December 16, 2008
