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Behind the Service: How to Understand Wedding Vendor Gratuity | Austin, TX Wedding Planners

Before you spend countless hours on Google trying to read the between the lines of various blogs and websites about the industry's standard, we are breaking it down for you. We think any vendor can agree, a five star review on the vendor's preferred website is the best form of flattery and a wonderful way to show your appreciation. We will start by saying that the biggest misconception on the internet is that if the vendor owns the business, do not include gratuity. Whether the vendor is an employee of someone else or owns the business, you should determine whether or not to include gratuity based on their quality of service and not their employment status with the company. Most self-employed business owners pride themselves on not building gratuity into their price point. With that being said, we recommend checking your contract and invoice closely to see if gratuity has been added ahead of time. It is important to remember if you are receiving a service or a product when you are considering how much gratuity to provide.

BAND

Protocol: Optional


The most important things to focus on for your band of choice is whatever can be done to make their job easier. Bands appreciate an isolated spot for their breaks that can be considered their green room, plenty bottles of water, and a hot meal before they perform. Not only do they have to play several sets, but they have laborious set ups and breakdowns. Although they only may perform for 2-3, one hour sets, we would definitely recommend $50 per band member as a thank you.


BARTENDING

Protocol: Expected