To Tip or Not To Tip...

To Tip or Not to Tip.... That's every bride's question.

There are lots of articles out there explaining who you should tip and who you shouldn't tip.  At the end of the day, it comes down to this:  if you would tip that person when its not your wedding day, you should tip them when it is your wedding day.  If you feel like someone went out of their way or went above and beyond, tip.  Tips should be 10-20%, just like when you tip at a restaurant, based on the performance of the person giving the service.
Here's the breakdown:

Tip Expected:

• Transportation drivers (check first to see if tip is included--you can pay this in advance)
• Hair and Makeup
• Head Waiter
• Bridal Attendant
• Waitstaff (check first to see if this is included)
• Bartenders (if they put out a tip jar, you can tip them just for you and the groom.  If not, give a little extra for the guests)
• Hotel bellmen and concierge
• Anyone that does something extra for you

Tip Appreciated but not Expected (more of a bonus than a tip):

• Musicians/DJ
• Extra Entertainment
• Caterer
• Wedding Coordinator
• Celebrant
• Anyone that works day-of and on-site

Tips are best in cash, but if that's not possible, you can add it to a payment by check.  Have tips and payments ready in advance, in sealed, labeled envelopes that will be easy to hand out day-of.  If you have a wedding coordinator, you can give these envelopes to him or her at the rehearsal and check that off of your list.  

If you have more advice or questions about tipping, please comment!