Free Tool

Wedding Tipping Calculator

Calculate appropriate tips for all your wedding vendors. Know how much to budget for gratuities.

Your Vendors

Select vendors and enter their costs for percentage-based tips

Caterer/Wait Staff

Check if gratuity is already included in contract

$15-20%
Bartenders

Per bartender, or total to split

Photographer

Optional, but appreciated for exceptional service

$100 - $200 suggested
Videographer

Optional, but appreciated for exceptional service

DJ

Tip for great crowd engagement

$50 - $150 suggested
Live Band

Per musician, or total to bandleader to distribute

Florist

Optional, tip if they set up on-site

Hair Stylist

Standard salon tipping rules apply

$15-25%
Makeup Artist

Standard salon tipping rules apply

$15-25%
Officiant

Flat amount as thank you; religious may prefer donation

Wedding Planner

Optional, but shows appreciation

Drivers/Limo

Per driver; check if included in contract

$15-20%
Valet Attendants

Per car parked (guests usually cover their own)

Delivery Crews

Cake, rentals, etc. - per crew member

Tipping Summary
Total Tips Budget
$170 - $400
Caterer/Wait Staff
$0 - $0
Photographer
$100 - $200
DJ
$50 - $150
Hair Stylist
$0 - $0
Makeup Artist
$0 - $0
Drivers/Limo
$20 - $50

Tip Etiquette

  • • Prepare labeled envelopes in advance
  • • Cash is preferred for tips
  • • Designate someone to distribute tips

Track Vendor Payments

Keep all vendor costs and tips organized in one place.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Prepare tips in labeled envelopes before the wedding. Give them at the end of the reception, or designate someone (wedding planner, family member) to distribute them on your behalf.
It's not expected to tip business owners (photographers who own their studio, etc.), but it's always appreciated. A positive review or referral is often more valuable to them.
Always check your contracts! Many caterers include a service charge (which may not go to staff) or automatic gratuity. Ask vendors directly if you're unsure.
Tips are optional but appreciated. If budget is a concern, prioritize tipping vendors who provided exceptional service or worked extra hard on your day.

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