Feeding your Wedding Vendors

Okay, so the picture really isn't what I am talking about... but that is what happens when I am starving after a

21 hour day. Before we crack open the wine.

This question has come up quite a bit about feeding your vendors, do you, should you, why? And I am here to answer the questions you have.



Firstly, one of the main reasons I bring this up, is that recently a Mother of the Bride called me to ask me which meal I'd prefer - because she wanted to make sure I ate. But she wasn't planning on feeding any of the other vendors.



Here were my concerns. The photographer and videographer would be working a 10 hour day. The DJ would be working a 5 hour day, for this event we were working with the bride for a 21 hour stint of time. And please know, I am not complaining, I love my job! But here's my point.



We pack with us protein bars, snacks, water, etc. But when the reception comes around, we have a teensy bit of down, the photographer can only take so many pictures of people shoveling food and drinks in their faces, and drinking. Plus, you probably wouldn't want pictures of that anyway - and while working a 10 hour day you probably want to feed your photographer so they stay upright. Keeping in mind, what their contract states, they may request a hot meal. And usually the venue or catering staff, have a vendor meal selections - chicken fingers and french fries work too.



The same goes for us, we aren't picky, but it is nice to sit down for 3 minutes (literally 3 minutes) and eat something once we know that you (the bride, groom, parents of the bride and groom) are being attended to. Our team usually eats in shifts, so I know someone from my team always has eyes on the bride and groom to know they are taken care of.



Our rule is that anyone working more than 4 or 5 hours in a row, should have the ability to eat something if at all possible. I'm not saying go crazy, but if you were working 5 hours or more, you'd want to eat, right?



What are you thinking, when it comes to feeding your vendors?

Tip on Tipping

I've been asked a lot lately about tipping. and who to tip and how much...and do I have to, is it a must???



All of these are good legitimate questions. And here is the answer.



Yes. 20%ish. No. No.



That's the short and sweet of it.



Here are the details. You should tip anyone that does a professional service for you for your wedding. That includes any professional. And if they do an above average job for you. If the professional that is working for you royally screws up, no-tip-for-them!



The average tip about in about 20%, but it does depend on the level of your service, was it good or great? Did they exceed your expectations? If so, show them. Thank them, with a tip.



You don't have to tip, but it is a nice thank you, so when working up your budget add a bit for your professional vendors. Keeping in mind that some gratuities may already be included in some invoices for your vendors.



Did you add tips into your budget?