Wedding Vendor Tipping Guide: Who Gets What and When
Tipping culture has definitely changed in the last five years or so. Tipping seems to be everywhere. We believe in rewarding those who do a great job, especially in service-based positions. Let us help you decide who gets what when to comes to tipping. So you’ve locked in your dream team, picked the perfect playlist, and even nailed down your late-night snack station (hello, taco bar). But now comes the sneaky question most couples don’t think about until the last minute: who gets tipped at your wedding—and how much?
Don’t stress—we’ve got you covered with a simple, no-fuss breakdown of wedding vendor tipping. Think of it as your cheat sheet for showing love to the crew that makes your big day magical.
Hair & Makeup Artists
They’re the ones making sure you look flawless in every photo (even after busting out the Cupid Shuffle). Treat this like a normal salon visit—15–20% of the total service cost. Hand it directly to the artist or pop it in an envelope.
Catering Staff
Servers, bartenders, and banquet captains are the behind-the-scenes MVPs making sure your guests are fed and hydrated. If gratuity isn’t already baked into your contract, aim for $20–$50 per server/bartender. For banquet captains or leads, $50–$100 is a classy move.
DJ or Band
These folks set the vibe for the entire night. A killer DJ usually gets $100–$200. For live bands, budget around $50–$150 per musician (because yes, even the tambourine guy deserves love).
Photographer & Videographer
If they own their business, tipping isn’t expected—but if they’ve gone above and beyond (think: wrangling relatives for group shots, staying late to capture that sparkler exit), $100–$200 is a thoughtful thank-you. If they brought second shooters, $50–$100 each goes a long way.
Planner or Coordinator
Your wedding planner is basically your ride-or-die for the whole process—handling vendor drama, timeline chaos, and your pre-wedding stress texts. Tipping 10–20% of their fee, or gifting $100+ plus a personal gift, shows major gratitude. For day-of coordinators, $50–$100 is standard.
Delivery & Setup Crews (florals, rentals, cake, etc.)
They’re the unsung heroes who haul, lift, and set up all the things that make your wedding look gorgeous. $20–$40 per person is a respectful “thank you” for their hustle.
Officiant
If your officiant is a friend or family member, a gift is usually more meaningful. For professionals, $100–$200 is customary (unless they’re charging a fee that already includes gratuity).
Pro Tip: Assign a trusted friend, parent, or coordinator to handle tipping envelopes on the big day. You’ll be busy living your best life, not chasing down vendors with cash.
At the end of the day, tipping isn’t about obligation—it’s about appreciation. Your vendors are the squad that makes your dream day reality, and a little extra love ensures they walk away feeling just as special as you do.
Complete Weddings + Events Orlando
Our team of Professionals here at Complete Weddings + Events Orlando is here to serve you! Not to just receive a tip, but to take care of you as a couple, to bring your vision to life, to bring unmatched energy to your party and to capture these moments to be remembered for years to come. Whether you are looking for a fun and energetic DJ, a detailed oriented Coordinator or a stylized photographer we have you covered! Book your services with Complete Weddings + Events Orlando!
