Introducing the D Weddings ABCs of Etiquette: Sure, you can flip through Emily Post’s bible of good manners, but what do Dallas brides, planners, and guests expect when it comes to local wedding etiquette? Dallas wedding experts tell us how to graciously navigate every wedding-day situation.

Tipping your wedding vendors is a discretionary process, but oftentimes we wish we had a playbook to show us exactly what is commonplace so that we don’t make a misstep.

“Providing gratuities for wedding vendors is not only expected, it’s a wonderful way to show appreciation for those who have assisted on the big day,” says Kimberly Rhodes of Hitched Events. “Make sure you budget for tips from the beginning so that you can accommodate a vendor’s fee plus gratuity.”

She also suggests having the cash in envelopes prepared and ready to go. “Assign someone trustworthy to distribute the envelopes on the wedding day,” she says. And always read your contracts. Some transportation companies, for example, will add on a percentage. Or, on the other hand, make sure not to assume a tip is included. “With catering and venue contracts, there are often service fees, but that doesn’t always translate to a tip. If it’s not clear—ask.”

Florists, Photographers, and Videographers

“While you don’t have to give cash to every person who made an impact on your wedding, it is a nice gesture to recognize your wedding team in some way. While vendors who own their own businesses do not typically expect a gratuity, it’s always nice to follow up with them after the wedding day. A small gift, a gift card, or a handwritten note is a nice touch to show your appreciation. If you’ve been pleased with the job they’ve done, it can also be incredibly helpful to write them a positive review to show your appreciation.”

Band

$25 to $50 per musician (“Again, just depending on how generous you are.”)

Ceremony Musicians

$20 to $25 per musician

Hair & Makeup

15 to 20 percent. “Tip just as you would if you were at the salon.”

Event Manager or Catering Manager

“This person is often overlooked, but we love to include the person who made sure all the details of the venue were completed.”

Catering Staff

“Again, check your invoice on this one. If a gratuity isn’t included, 15 to 20 percent should be added. Another option is to give a tip for each server ($20 to $50) as well as the banquet or catering manager.”

Delivery Staff

“You’d tip your pizza delivery guy, so why wouldn’t you tip the person who is delivering your wedding cake? A small cash tip ($5 to $10) for those making deliveries on your wedding day is always a nice gesture.”

Officiant

“I suggest $75 to $150 in addition to his or her regular fees. Asking the officiant’s assistant or wedding coordinator at the church or synagogue what the officiant ‘typically’ receives is a great way to make sure you’re taking care of the officiant in the way he or she prefers.”

Wedding Planner

“Did your wedding planner make your life easier while planning? A gratuity or gift after the wedding is always appreciated.”