Last updated: May 2026
Short answer: You tip wedding vendors who provide a service (not a product), especially if gratuity is not already included in your contract.
Quick Answer: Who Do You Tip at a Wedding?
Here is the simple breakdown of who typically gets tipped at a wedding:
- Hair & Makeup Artists: Yes (15% to 25%)
- Catering Staff & Bartenders: Yes (15% to 20% or per staff member)
- Delivery & Setup Staff: Yes ($10 to $50 per person)
- Transportation Drivers: Yes (15% to 20% or flat fee)
- Venue Staff: Sometimes (check contract)
Vendors You May Tip (Optional)
- Photographer
- Videographer
- Wedding planner or coordinator
- DJ or band
- Florist
- Photo booth attendant
- Live wedding painter
- Content creator (TikTok or behind-the-scenes)
These vendors are typically tipped only if they go above and beyond your expectations.
Vendors You Usually Do NOT Tip
- Venue owners
- Business owners who set their own pricing (unless optional gratuity is offered)
Do You Have to Tip Wedding Vendors?
No. Tipping is not required, but it is customary for service-based vendors. Always check your contract first, since some include gratuity or service charges.
When Do You Tip Wedding Vendors?
- Hair & Makeup: After services are completed
- Catering & Bartenders: End of reception or included in contract
- Photographer/Videographer: End of night or after final delivery
- Planner/Coordinator: End of event
- Drivers: After ride is completed
Quick Tip Rule
If someone is physically working your wedding day (serving, assisting, setting up, or styling), they are the most likely to be tipped.
Want Exact Dollar Amounts?
This is the quick list version. For a full breakdown of exact tipping amounts, timing, and printable checklists, see:
► Wedding Vendor Tipping Guide (Full Breakdown)
FAQ: Who Do You Tip at a Wedding?
Do you tip every wedding vendor?
No. Only service-based vendors are typically tipped, and even then it is often optional depending on contracts and service quality.
Do you tip wedding vendors if gratuity is included?
No additional tip is required if gratuity is already included, but you can add extra for exceptional service.
Is it rude not to tip wedding vendors?
No. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Many couples tip based on service level and budget.
For full amounts, timing, and printable planning tools, visit the complete wedding vendor tipping guide linked above.
