Some tip big, some tip very little and some tip based on the services and some don’t tip at all. I often get asked the question of “how much”, which to vendors is better than, “do I have to”?
The short answer is no, you do not have to however, I am sure that most would agree that when the service you have received was above and beyond your expectation that would be worthy of something extra.
Gratuity has no cardinal rule, except for the ones we are told about or the ones set forth by the vendors.
As an owner of a new jersey based photography and video production studio, I would love to assure my staff of something extra for their efforts however, my belief is that a tip is something earned over the course of the day and evening.
I believe in tipping generously, but only when it has been earned. You did pay for the service already, and the vendors usually get compensated fairly well for the work.
Now the next questions are how much? Well that will vary from region to region, state to state and even city to city. It will also vary from vendor to vendor.
You must also keep in mind the post production work which may be required to fulfill your wedding day requests, such as graphic design and video editing to name a few.
The range for a photographer in the north east will be anywhere from $50.00 to $500.00, based on a ten hour day and outstanding service throughout the day.
A percentage of what you spent does not usually make sense, since you could purchase a $1,000.00 photo package or a $6,000.00+ photo package. The photographer should and in most cases, will work equally as hard for each couple, and the gratuity should be based on the service they received.
I would love to hear your feedback on who fee a gratuity is something that all couples should consider for their individual vendors?
e-mail me at info@abacuswedding.com