Tipping Photographers/Videographers/etc.

[MDLady]

Does anyone know if we are supposed to add tips for package services that are not arranged through the hotel? In our case, we arranged for our own photographer and videographer but I am not sure if we should add tips to their package prices. They are already not cheap but I also don't want to stiff them when it's customary. What do you ladies think

[KJ Shea]

That is a really good question. They certainly are not cheap at all and most of them work for themselves,

[DWbridetobe]

I am a firm believer in tipping for good service(s) rendered. If they make your day even a bit less stressful, or provide something to you beyond their customary charges, I say tip them.

 

I'm having the same issue, since most of our arrangements have been made through the resort. I'd be interested in hearing what other brides have to say.

[SouthernSweetie]

I'm all ears...

[MDLady]

I asked the resort planner and she said that if you are happy with the service, a 15% tip is typical but of course it's up to us if we would like to do so. I am usually an above-average tipper for regular services, whether it's at a restaurant or a taxi. But here, on a $2,000 package, 15% = $300 just for the tip!!! That's a little steep so maybe we will just do $150 or so instead.. I've never given a $300 tip in my life And here it would have to be multiple vendors!

[finleys7]

We tipped out to everyone. I had everything in envelopes, labeled so we could hand out at the end of the night. The florist was the only before wedding payment. I designated my father as the money holder/tipper but my husband ended up tipping =)

 

The DJ, photographer, assistant, videographer, wedding coordinator, bartenders, cigar roller, waiters, trolley drivers...everyone got tipped =)

[MDLady]

Quote:

Originally Posted by finleys7 We tipped out to everyone. I had everything in envelopes, labeled so we could hand out at the end of the night. The florist was the only before wedding payment. I designated my father as the money holder/tipper but my husband ended up tipping =) The DJ, photographer, assistant, videographer, wedding coordinator, bartenders, cigar roller, waiters, trolley drivers...everyone got tipped =)

If you don't mind me asking, what % did you use for the tip?

[finleys7]

It varied between 10-25%. But it was hard to tell for bartenders and such, so I gave them $40 each.

[MDLady]

Luckily our resort includes a 19% tip for all staff so we don't have to worry about that, it's already done. I just wasn't sure what the custom was for other vendors. Thanks ladies

[blckrevpower]

guess we'll have to put that in the budget. . . these numbers keep adding up!

The FI and I are both in the serving industry and are firm believers in tipping- generously.

I would say if you are going to do it, stay between 15 and 20%, below that I believe would look cheap. . . even though you are paying a nice fee for the services. . .