The True Scoop on Wedding Tipping Etiquette
Most of us through trial and error and simply time
have learned the basics of tipping. We understand a bellhop expects
it, your hair stylist likes it and your restaurant server is anxiously
hopeful. However, how saavy are youwhen it comes to wedding protocol?
As with most every service we receive, tipping should
be based on what level of care and exceeding of expectation a
service provider offers. The following points are suggestion oriented
only, so remember to follow your own heart as you proceed.
 No
one should expect a tip - the money goes along with a job well
done.
Be
frank with your catering manager or restaurateur. Is there already
a tipping policy they adhere too?
Gratuity is often pre-factored into the bill - read carefully,
it may be included based on the number of guests or total bill
amount.
Plan ahead and designate the "tipper - ask your wedding consultant
or event host to handle this task.
Have tips ready in sealed and addressed envelopes - your day
will be action packed so don't worry about having to think too
much.
Tipping is based on excellent service, yet keep in mind that some
"tipping" is actually a fee for service. The best example of this
will be with your wedding officiant. It is customary for an officiant
to receive anywhere between $50.00 - $150.00 for services provided.
This is the only payment the officiant receives and yet it is customarily
thought of the same as tipping.
Other folks up for nomination in the tipping category may include;
limo driver, wait staff, musicians, banquet manager, bartenders,
parking attendants.
Look for room in your reception budget early in the planning stages
to allow for tipping if so desired. Based on the total expenditure
of the event, tipping costs can become quite substantial. Remember
that service comes first and a tip is a monetary way to compliment
someone based on the level of service that they provide! While most
of us tend to remember more easily the folks who "did not" live
up to our expectations, on such a special day as your wedding it
would be nice to recognize the many people who go out of their way
to ensure your day is as memorable as possible.
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