How to Kindly Throw Your Next Celebration
Without vendors, your next big event wouldn’t happen. Vendors are a vital part of making any event a success. To help navigate the vendor terrain, our experts at J&J Tent and Party Rentals put together a list of commonly asked questions when it comes to respecting and interacting with vendors. Whether it’s a wedding with family or a corporate event with hundreds, vendor etiquette will make your day run smoother.
Should I tip the vendor?
YES…YES…AND YES! If you loved the service and had a positive experience, tip your vendor and staff. That goes for all those involved in the planning and execution of the event— photographer, catering, baker, florist, serving staff, event space coordinator or anyone who was present at the event and helped make the day run smoothly.
How much should I tip a vendor?
Make sure to read over the contract first to see if gratuity was already added to the total fee. Often tips are included in the final price, so make sure to check. While there is no set price for tipping, here are a few guidelines to help with budgeting.
-General Guidelines:
- Go through the event list of vendors and determine who has and has not added a tip to the final price. Once you decide who needs to be tipped, set a plan on how and when you will tip them after the event.
- Reward excellent service (when a vendor goes above and beyond) with a little extra
- Most often, tips are not given to the owner of the business. However, it is encouraged to tip the staff.
-Specific Guidelines:
- When tipping the catering staff, aim for $10-20 per person.
- Bartenders are usually 10-15 percent of the pre-tax bill.
- Hair and makeup stylists should be tipped 15-20 percent for the service.
- Musicians/DJ should be tipped roughly $25-$50 per person.
- Delivery and setup are $5-$10 per person.
Should I feed the vendors?
Yes, it is common to feed the vendors or staff at the event. Talk to your caterer about what they offer for vendor meals or make sure to have enough to go around.
What if I’m not happy with the service?
If you don’t love the service, speak up! Check with your contract to understand the requirements and parameters better. If you are within your rights, then say something to the vendor. If there is no one to talk with, take pictures and bring those photos to a formalized meeting. Know your rights and be prepared to negotiate.
Other Options
For vendors that aren’t traditionally tipped, such as a wedding planner, consider giving a gift of appreciation and leave a positive review on Google or social media page.
Bonus Tip
If you are planning an event in the Raleigh area and need some expert advice, give J&J Tent and Party Rentals a call. We have been immersed in the wedding and event planning scene for years and have a wealth of knowledge and recommendations. We know the North Carolina event industry well, so we can answer any questions you may have about throwing your wedding, engagement party or business event.
With J&J Tent and Party Rentals by your side through every step in this process, we take the guesswork out of planning the best event ever. For more information about events and tent rentals, Contact Us at (919) 977-3691.
