Description: Guidelines for tipping people you hire to perform your wedding ceremony.

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One of the areas that couples tend to neglect when planning their wedding budget is the subject of tipping. From caterers to waiters to clergy members, it is customary to provide an additional tip on top of the regular costs and rates.

When planning out your budget, be sure to allow an additional amount to the quoted price, so that you aren't caught unaware and short of cash. Following, is a general idea on the amounts you should set aside for different wedding suppliers. Remember, these amounts are not set in stone. Plan according to your budget and the type of service you receive from each.

* Caterer and/or Banquet Manager - 15% for extra special service. Usually, the gratuity is already included into the set fee. Be sure to check on this. If it hasn't been, add 15% to the price.

* Bartenders - 15% to 20% of the liquor bill.

* Bridal Consultant - 15% for extra special service.

* Powder Room and Coat Room Attendants - 50¢ per guest. You could also arrange to pay a flat tipping fee instead.

* Clergymembers - $20 or more donation, depending on the length of the ceremony.

* Civil Ceremony Officials - $10 and up. However, look into this first. Some judges cannot accept money.

* Florist - 15% directly to the driver who delivers the flowers. (Don't include it when paying the bill, the driver will never see it.)

* Photographer - 10% to 15% for extra special service.

* Videographer - 10% to 15% for extra special service.

* Cake Decorator - 10% to 15% for extra special service or for a difficult/very large cake.

* Musicians or D.J. - 15% for extra special service.

* Limousine Driver - 10% to 15% paid directly to the driver.

Copyright 2001, by Rose Smith. Rose is the author of How to Create a Beautiful Medieval Wedding and several other wedding booklets. Visit Wedding Themes and More for great ideas on theme weddings, favor ideas, budget tips, honeymoon destinations, decorations and more.