Wedding Etiquette

Wedding etiquette is just like any other type of etiquette when it comes to tipping.  If you are given a service, it is essential that you provide a tip to the person that is providing it to you.

Tipping is a way of thanking an individual for a job well done.  Therefore, if they do not do a good job or there is some large problem that is not able to be rectified, the tip should be lessened or not provided.  But, remember that this is the source of income for the service provider.

So, who do you tip and who is supposed to tip them?  Here are some general rules to help you to decide what the right way to handle payment in the form of tips is.

Who To Tip

The first thing to take note of is just who you should be tipping.  One rule of thumb for this is to take a look at the final bill.  Today, most of the opportunities for tips are often applied right to the final bill. 

For example, 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?

If you feel that the service provider has gone over and beyond what was expected of them, then it can be appropriate to provide them with more of a tip for your needs.  If you feel that the tip is not enough, then by all means, a larger tip can and should be left. 

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.
• Your Limousine Driver.  You should tip the limo driver for your service.  Notice in the contract if there is an amount of gratuity already listed.  If so, it is not necessary.  If not, or you receive high levels of service, a tip of 15% is appropriate.
• Photographers, florists and musicians.  If not provided in the contract, a tip in the amount of 15% to 20% is appreciated.  More for better service, of course.
• Priests, Rabbis and Clergymen.  This is one tip not to be forgotten as it is not provided elsewhere.  The groom should provide a tip to be given by the best man to the official.  Commonly, this amount should not be less than $100.  While it is a donation, it should always be provided.  More should be provided if the official had to drive a long distance.
• Civil Service.  Since there is no cost set here, it is appropriate to provide a tip of $50 to $100 for the civil servant that is providing the service.  Often, there is a suggested donation posted in these offices.
• 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. 

Tipping should not be something that is forgotten.  If the groom can not remember to do the tipping, then the best man should step in.  It is necessary to show appreciation and follow proper etiquette for tipping.