Tipping and Gratuities: What to Budget for Your Rochester Wedding Vendors

Tipping is the part of a wedding budget nobody warns you about. It is rarely in a quote, it is almost never in the spreadsheet, and it comes due on the day itself when you have the least attention to spare. Here is a plain guide for couples getting married around Rochester.

Planning your budget? Call (585) 352-3300 or contact us for real numbers.

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First, Read Your Contracts

Before you budget a dollar, check what you have already agreed to. Many catering and venue contracts include a service charge, and it is not the same thing as a tip. A service charge is a standard part of the bill. Whether any of it reaches staff as gratuity varies, so ask the question directly and in writing.

Ask three things: is a service charge included, does it function as gratuity for the staff, and is anything additional expected? A venue that answers plainly is telling you something good about how it runs.

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Rough Ranges Around Rochester

These are customary, not rules. Nobody is owed a tip and generosity is yours to decide.

• Catering and bar staff. Usually covered by the service charge. If not, 15 to 20 percent is typical, or a set amount per server.
• Coordinator. Often 50 to 200 dollars, more if they went well beyond.
• Photographer and videographer. Not expected if they own the business. 50 to 200 dollars for second shooters and assistants.
• DJ or band. 50 to 150 dollars for a DJ, 25 to 50 per musician.
• Officiant. If from a house of worship, a donation is customary. Otherwise 50 to 100 dollars.
• Hair and makeup. 15 to 20 percent, same as any salon visit.
• Delivery and setup crews. 5 to 20 dollars per person, handed over on arrival.
• Transportation. Often built into the contract. Check before you double up.

For a 150 guest wedding, couples commonly set aside somewhere between 500 and 1,500 dollars total, depending on how much is already covered.

"Great venue with amazing staff! So many guests commented on how great the food was - I especially loved the chicken cutlets and twice baked potatoes!" - Nancy S

Want a quote with the service charge spelled out? Ask us.

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The Part That Actually Goes Wrong

Not the amounts. The logistics. Couples plan to tip and then never manage to hand anything over, because at 9pm on your wedding day you are dancing, not carrying envelopes.

Do this instead, a week out:

• Write every envelope in advance, with the vendor name on the front.
• Put them all in one labeled bag or box.
• Hand the whole thing to one person who is not you. Best man, maid of honor, a parent, or your coordinator.
• Tell that person which envelopes go out at setup and which at the end of the night.

That single step is the difference between tipping well and finding envelopes in a gift bag two weeks later.

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Something That Costs Nothing

A specific thank-you note, and an online review naming the people who took care of you. Around here, vendors read them and remember. It also helps the next couple find a team that is good at this.

Questions about what is and is not included in our pricing? Ask us straight, we will tell you straight. More on the weddings and receptions page.

Get in touch or call (585) 352-3300.