Wedding tipping etiquette: What you really need to know

Let’s talk about tipping. A topic that makes a lot of couples feel unsure or even uncomfortable.

If you’ve spent any time in wedding planning Facebook groups, you’ve probably seen the same question asked over and over again: “Who are we supposed to tip, and how much?” And if you’ve read the responses, you’ve likely come away with more confusion than clarity.

We’re here to simplify it.

As wedding filmmakers, photographers, and business owners, we’ve worked with many different couples and seen it all: from envelopes stuffed with cash to kind hugs and heartfelt thank-you notes and gifts. Here's what you really need to know about tipping etiquette for your wedding vendors:

1. You’re not expected to tip every vendor

Let’s clear up the biggest myth first: Tipping is required for every vendor.

False.Tipping is not expected from vendors who own their own business. So the person working your wedding day is also the one paying the taxes, bills, and giving themself a paycheck. That means companies like ours never expect a tip. Like, ever. We're so proud to do this work, and we build our pricing to reflect the full value of our time, labor, and artistic experience. (However, unlike what some may say in Facebook groups - I would never, i repeat NEVER add a tip for myself in my pricing.)

That said… if we do receive a tip? It makes our hearts absolutely soar. Truly. It tells us that our effort went noticed and that we made a lasting impact on your day. We literally jump for joy the second we get in the car when we recive a tip.

But again: Not required. Not expected.

2. We don’t (and Shouldn’t) build tips Into Our prices

A topic that I felt needed it's own seciton. A common misconception? That vendors “bake in” tip amounts to their package pricing.

We don’t. And most reputable small business owners don’t either.

When we create our pricing, we’re careful and transparent. Every dollar is based on hard costs (equipment, second shooters, editing hours, travel) and the value of our time and talent. Not some random “tip buffer.” We never say, “Let’s add an extra $200 just in case.” That wouldn’t feel honest or sustainable.

This is why tipping, if you choose to do it, is seen as a meaningful gesture and a recognization that we went above and beyond.

3. Not every tip has to be monetary

There are so many beautiful ways to show appreciation. Some of our favorite “tips” over the years?

• A handwritten card (we save every one!)

• A custom mug or coffee beans becasue if you've seen our Instagram you know my love for coffee

• A DM saying, “We can’t stop crying. You nailed it.”

And of course, the BEST kind of tip…

4. The Gold standard tip: a Stellar review

If you want to make a wedding vendor’s whole month, leave them a thoughtful, detailed review. Seriously.

A five-star Google review that shares specifics such as how we made you feel, what stood out, why you’d recommend us, can directly impact our ability to book future couples. It’s how many of you found us in the first place.

And future clients don’t just want to hear that we were “nice” or “easy to work with.” They want to see themselves in your story. So your unique perspective matters so much. (And if you’ve worked with us before and haven’t left a review yet... this is your nudge!)

5. if You Do Give a Tip, timing matters

If you plan to give a monetary tip, here’s our best advice: don’t wait until the end of the night.

The “official” end time on our contract might say 10 PM, but a sparkler send-off or last-minute photo dash can push things past that. At that point, vendors have been on their feet for 10+ hours. We’re exhausted, packing gear, and dreaming of post-wedding McDonalds fries.

So if you're planning to tip, assign someone you trust (like a parent or wedding party member) to hand out tips before the party winds down at some point after speeches, but before the big exit.

It’s such a small thing that makes a huge difference.

6. Plan tip ahead and don't leave it to a planner or coordinator

Another sticky myth: “Just let your planner or coordinator decide who to tip.”

As much as we love working alongside planners, tipping is a personal decision. They won’t have the full picture of the vendor’s involvement before and after the wedding day. Only you know who made your experience exceptional.

We always recommend:

• Preparing envelopes ahead of time (with names written clearly!) and sealing them.

• Giving them to a trusted point person like your mom, maid of honor or best man

• Pass them out at the end of the night and if you feel like someone no longer deserves the tip for whatever reason reallocate that envelope to those who do.

• Making those choices based on your unique experience, not a random rule or based on someone else preference is important

Now... Who should you consider tipping

According to current wedding industry standards, here’s a general guide:

Customary to Tip:

• Hairstylists & Makeup Artists (15–25%)

• Catering staff (15–20% if not already included)

• Transportation drivers ($50–100)

• Delivery personnel ($5–20 each)

• Ceremony musicians or DJs ($50–100)

• Officiants (especially if not affiliated with a religious institution, $50–100 or a donation)

• If you hired a photo/video company and they are sending a "shooter" that just works for the day tip each "shooter" ($50-$200 per shooter)

Optional/At Your Discretion (especially if they own their business):

• Photographers ($50-$200 per shooter)

• Videographers ($50-$200 per shooter)

• Planners ($100–$500, some suggest 20%)

• Florists ($10-$20 per team member setting up/tearing down)

• Bakers (10%-15% of total bill)

• Rentals ($20–$50 per delivery/setup crew member)

Again, not expected, but always appreciated when it’s authentic and recongnizing hard work and an excellent experience.

In a world where vendors pour their hearts and souls into each couple’s story, tipping, when done with intention, becomes more than a financial gesture. It becomes a thank you. A connection. A “you mattered to us.” So whether it’s a kind word, a glowing review, a little gift, or a tip, we encourage every couple to make space for gratitude. It goes such a long way.

And if you’re ever unsure? Just ask us. We’re happy to help you navigate wedding planning with confidence and kindness.