Who Pays for the Wedding
Traditionally it is the Brides family who pays
for the wedding. However, our society is not as traditional as it use to
be and we now see that more commonly either both sets of families are
contributing to the wedding costs, couple pays for the wedding, or it is
a combination of both. Which ever way the money rolls in, it is
extremely important that you decide who is paying for what at the very
beginning of the planning stages.
TIPPING VENDORS
Tipping vendors is absolutely important. It shows
your appreciation for all the work that went into making your day
perfect. For your convenience we have listed the tipping etiquette
Wedding
Planners
Tipping
wedding planners is optional and most planners don’t expect a tip.
However, if your wedding planner does an exceptional job, typical
protocol is up to $500 or a really nice gift, which should be given to
the planner after the wedding.
Hair & Make-Up Artist
Tipping hair & make-up artist is an absolute
must. The protocol is usually 15-20 percent (same as you would at a
salon). You can give a little more if the team went above and beyond the
call of duty.
Set-Up and Delivery Staff
Tipping set-up & delivery staff is definitely
expected. Typical protocol is between $5-$10 per person. You can
arrange for whoever is supervising set up to pass out the tips, usually
the catering manager or wedding planner.
Photographer/Videographer
Tipping the photographer is unnecessary, unless
the photographer is not the studio owner. In this case you might want to
tip them between $50-200 per vendor at the end of the reception.
Musicians
It is not necessary to tip the musician of the
ceremony unless you have worked with them to create a special piece for
your wedding. In this case you should tip between $15-$20 per musician.
Tipping reception musicians is optional, but expected. The protocol
should be $20-$25 per musician and $50-$150 for DJs.
Reception
Staff/Attendants
Tipping
reception staff is optional, but expected. You should tip at the
beginning of the evening to encourage all of the workers to give you
exceptional service. The protocol is as follows: maitre d’ and banquet
manager should get 15-20 percent of the total food and bar fee; coat
room should get $1 per guest; valet should get $1 per car; bartenders
and waiters should get $20-$25 each. Before you tip, please make sure
that the tip is not included in the contract.
Transportation
If gratuity is not included in your contract,
then yes, you must provide a tip. The protocol is between 15-20 percent
of the total bill and should be handed over by the best man after the
last ride of the trip. If the best man is not available, you must
designate someone that will carry out this duty.