Wedding Tipping Guide: Who to Tip, How Much & When

Planning a wedding means juggling a hundred little details, and tipping often slips through the cracks. But a simple thank‑you in the form of a gratuile can keep your vendors smiling and your day running smoothly. Below we break down the must‑tip people, the typical amounts, and the best time to hand over the cash.

Which vendors usually get tipped?

Not every wedding professional expects a tip, but a handful do. Here’s the short list you’ll want to remember:

• Caterer staff – servers, bartenders and kitchen crew. They’re on their feet all day, so a tip shows appreciation.
• Wedding planner or coordinator – especially if they go above the contract hours on the big day.
• Hair and makeup artists – they often work one‑on‑one and help you look your best.
• Photographer’s assistant – if you’ve hired a second shooter or an assistant, a small tip is customary.
• Transportation driver – for limousines, vintage cars or shuttle buses.
• Valet or parking staff – if you have a venue that offers valet service.

Other vendors, like the florist, DJ, or venue manager, typically don’t require tips because they’re covered by their contracts. If you’re unsure, a quick email asking about gratuities can clear things up.

How much should you tip?

There’s no one‑size‑fits‑all number, but these ranges work well for most UK weddings:

• Servers and bartenders: £10–£20 per person for a 100‑guest celebration, or a flat £100–£200 if you prefer simplicity.
• Planner/coordinator: 10–15% of their fee if they’re handling day‑of logistics.
• Hair and makeup: £20–£30 per stylist, or 10% of the service cost.
• Photographer’s assistant: £30–£50 for the day.
• Driver: £10–£20 per vehicle.
• Valet: £2–£5 per car.

These figures are guidelines, not rules. If a vendor went above and beyond, feel free to add a little extra.

When to give the tip

Timing matters. For most service staff, hand the tip at the end of the reception when they’re packing up. This lets them see the gratitude directly. For planners and photographers, a tip can be slipped into the final invoice or given in a handwritten envelope after the wedding. Drivers usually receive theirs as they drop you off at the venue or at the end of the night.

Whatever method you choose, make sure the tip is in cash. Many vendors rely on cash for quick payouts, and a note saying “Thank you for making our day perfect” adds a personal touch.

Remember, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a nice way to show appreciation for hard work. Keep a small envelope handy, note the vendors you’ll tip, and you’ll avoid any last‑minute stress. With this guide, you can focus on enjoying your wedding while the professionals feel recognized and motivated.