Tipping Guide

anna & John martin

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Inspired by the timeless guidance of planner Mindy Weiss, gratuities should never feel obligatory—they’re thoughtful gestures that recognize exceptional dedication and care.

The ranges provided are based on current industry standards and meant only as general guidance. Every wedding, vendor, and experience is unique, and we always leave the final decision entirely to you.

Your gratitude—whether expressed through a heartfelt note, kind words, or a tip—is a beautiful reflection of the appreciation you feel for those who’ve helped bring your day to life.

GRATUITIES & APPRECIATION

Shelby

A Note on Gratuities and Appreciation

Inspired by the timeless guidance of planner Mindy Weiss, gratuities should never feel obligatory—they’re thoughtful gestures that recognize exceptional dedication and care. For more information you can visit the following links:

YOUR tipping guide

For all other vendors, gratuities are not expected but always appreciated when received. It is ultimately up to you to tip how you see fit based on your experience with each vendor. If helpful, you may also reference these articles from Martha Stewart and Brides for additional insight on wedding gratuity etiquette:

Wedding Day

Band (I Love This Band)

(optional) $25-$50 per musician/tech - 15 bandmembers

Catering (Townsend)

(suggested) $20-50 per server/bartender - 19 servers

(optional) $25-$100 - 1 steamer

Steamer (Jenni B)

Officiant (Rev. Jon Easterhaus)

(suggested) $50-$100

Hair & Makeup (Tania Crawford)

(suggested) 15-25% of the total bill -4 artists

Ceremony & Cocktail Music
(Top Hat Live)

(optional) $20-$50 per musician - 5 musicians

Video Team (Joseph Hardin Films)

(optional) $50-$150 - 2 cinematographers

Photo Team (Hannah Miller)

(optional) $50-$150 - 2 photographers

Flying with Ease

(optional) $xx -$xx per entertainer - 4

Pyro Shows

(optional) $xx -$xx per technician- 2

Planning team (SPE)

(optional) associate planners 4 team members

frequently asked questions

We highly suggest preparing a labeled envelope for each vendor and placing cash or personal checks inside. It's best to have these prepared in advance of your In Person Wrap Up Meeting in order to hand off to Shelby. This allows for a payment-free wedding day!

01 what is the best method for tipping my wedding team?

If you are having a band at your reception, many will require payment via Cashier's check. It's best to prepare this in advance and hand off to Shelby at your In Person Wrap Up Meeting. For vendors such as hair and make up artists who do not have a final invoice until wedding day, you often may pay via Venmo or personal check.

03 what is the best way to pay a vendor who requires payment on wedding day

That is completely up to you! We find most clients want to have peace of mind knowing everyone has been properly thanked before they move on to their honeymoon and newlywed life.