Wedding vendor tipping guide (who, how much, when)
Updated 2026-10-17
In the US, typical tips are 15–20% for planners, caterers and bartenders (if service isn’t already included), 15–25% for hair and makeup, $50–200 per photographer or videographer, and $50–150 for a DJ. Check every contract first: many include a service charge. Tipping is optional and less common in the UK and Australia.
US tipping norms by vendor
| Vendor | Typical tip (US) |
|---|---|
| Planner / coordinator | 15–20% of the fee, or a thoughtful gift |
| Hair & makeup | 15–25% of the service |
| Photographer, videographer | $50–200 per person, or 5–15% |
| DJ | $50–150 |
| Band / ceremony musicians | $15–50 per musician |
| Officiant | $50–100 (plus a donation if religious) |
| Caterer & waitstaff | 15–20% of food and drink if service isn’t included |
| Bartenders | 15–20% of the drinks bill |
| Delivery & set-up crew | $10–50 per person |
| Drivers | 15–20%, or about $50 per driver |
| Florist, baker | $50–200, or a gift |
Source: The Knot, updated January 2026.
How to hand tips out
- Put cash in labelled envelopes before the day.
- Give them to one trusted person (a parent or the coordinator) to hand out at the end.
- Tips for delivery crews go out when they arrive, so keep a few small envelopes ready.
Outside the US
In the UK, Australia and New Zealand tipping wedding suppliers is appreciated but not expected; a thank-you card, review or small gift is common. In Canada, tipping customs are closer to the US. Whatever you decide, add tips to your budget so they don’t ambush you on the day.
Questions
Do you tip vendors who own their business?
It’s optional. Many couples tip employees and assistants and send owners a review or gift.
Is a service charge the same as a tip?
Not always. Ask your caterer whether the service charge goes to the staff.
Sources
Last checked 2026-10-17.