You’ve booked your venue, picked your photographer, and finalized your vendors — and now you’re wondering… how much are you supposed to tip everyone?
It’s one of the most common questions I get from couples as their wedding day approaches!
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are general guidelines that help you budget and show appreciation to the amazing team that helps make your day happen.
Here’s your go-to guide to wedding vendor tipping — who to tip, how much, and the best way to do it.
Do You Have to Tip Wedding Vendors?
Tipping is never mandatory, but it’s a thoughtful way to thank vendors who went above and beyond for you.
Many vendors in the wedding industry are small business owners, so a personal thank-you note or heartfelt review is often just as meaningful as cash. Still, when you’ve had a great experience, a tip is always appreciated.
Rule of thumb:
- If your vendor owns the business → tip is optional, but kind.
- If they’re part of a larger company (like catering staff, hair stylists, or DJs) → tip is customary.
Who to Tip (and How Much)
Here’s a breakdown of typical wedding vendor tips — straight from years of experience working with Toledo-area weddings.
Hair & Makeup Artists
Amount: 15–25% of total service cost (just like a salon).
When: At the end of services or before the ceremony.
How: Cash in labeled envelopes.
Catering & Bartenders
Amount: 15–20% of total food and beverage cost, or $20–$50 per staff member.
When: After dinner or at the end of the night.
How: Usually included in your contract — double-check before adding extra.
DJ or Band
Amount: $100–$200 per DJ, or $25–$50 per band member.
When: At the end of the night.
How: Cash in an envelope or add to the final balance if paying electronically.
Planner or Coordinator
Amount: 10–20% of their fee, or a flat $150–$500, depending on scope.
When: After the wedding (a handwritten thank-you + Venmo works too!).
Photographer / Videographer
Amount: Optional — $100–$300 per lead shooter, or $50–$100 per assistant.
When: After the wedding day or when your gallery is delivered.
How: Cash, Venmo, or a thank-you card.
(As a Toledo wedding photographer, I can tell you — a heartfelt review and referral are just as appreciated as a tip!)
Florist
Amount: Optional — $50–$100 or 10–15% of total.
When: When flowers are delivered.
How: Cash or small gift card.
Transportation / Shuttle Drivers
Amount: 15–20% of total cost or $25–$50 per driver.
When: At pickup or drop-off.
Officiant
Amount: $50–$100 for a religious officiant, or $100–$200 for a professional officiant.
When: Before or after the ceremony.
How: In an envelope or donation to the church.
Delivery / Setup Crew (Décor, Rentals, etc.)
Amount: $10–$25 per person.
When: Upon delivery or pickup.
How to Organize and Deliver Your Tips
The week before your wedding, prepare labeled envelopes with each vendor’s name and the amount. Hand them to your planner or a trusted family member to distribute on your wedding day so you can stay focused on celebrating.
Include a short handwritten thank-you note — even one or two sentences can mean the world.
Pro tip: Write your vendor thank-you cards the week after your wedding while everything’s fresh in your mind!
Extra Ways to Show Appreciation
Even if you don’t tip every vendor, there are so many ways to show your gratitude:
- Leave a 5-star Google or The Knot review.
- Post about them on social media and tag their business.
- Refer them to friends planning weddings.
- Send a thank-you email or card after your gallery is delivered.
A small gesture of appreciation goes a long way toward supporting your local Toledo wedding community.
Final Thoughts
There’s no perfect formula when it comes to wedding tipping — but being intentional and appreciative makes all the difference.
If you’re unsure what’s customary for your vendor team, ask your planner or photographer for guidance. We’ve seen it all and can help you budget realistically.
You can also explore my Toledo Wedding Vendor Guide to learn more about the incredible local pros who make each wedding day unforgettable.
