A Tip On Tips

The florist created food centered arrangements for my chef bride

   Tipping is one of the most uncomfortable conversations in wedding planning.  Some couples assume every vendor should receive a gratuity.  Others believe that because a vendor charges a professional fee, no additional thank you is necessary.  Here's how I look at it.  A wedding isn't created by one person.  It's created by a team.  The servers who quietly refill glasses and clears tables all evening.  The bartender who remembers your grandfather's favorite drink.  The florist who is still arranging every bloom until the very last minute.  The DJ who keeps the dance floor full.  The photographer who misses dinner because they're capturing your first dance.  The planner who is solving problems you'll probably never know existed.

The photograpaher captured this quiet moment before first look

   Many of these professionals work long hours, lift heavy equipment, stay on their feet all day, miss meals, and often spend weekends away from their own families so they can help create one unforgettable day for yours.  A tip isn't always expected.  But genuine appreciation is always remembered.  Sometimes that's a gratuity.  Sometimes it's a handwritten note.  Sometimes it's an enthusiastic review.  Sometimes it's referring that professional to another couple.

   Kindness has value.  Gratitude has value.  The best wedding professionals don't measure success by the tip they receive.  They measure it by the experience they created.  But when a couple takes a moment to acknowledge the people who worked so hard behind the scenes, it reminds every member of that team that their dedication mattered.  Weddings are built on relationships.  A simple "thank you”, in whatever form that feels appropriate to you is one of the most meaningful details of all

This catering team did a great job in the July heat on the Hudson in New York