A 2026 Wedding Tipping Guide for Minnesota Couples
- juliajenneman
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
What’s Changed, What’s the Same, and How to Thank Your Dream Team Well
Gratitude never goes out of style—but tipping trends do shift. As we look toward weddings in 2026, Minnesota couples are still balancing timeless etiquette with modern expectations. Vendors don’t “require” tips (this isn’t the restaurant world), but a thoughtful gratuity can go a long way to acknowledge the care, artistry, and hours behind the scenes that make your celebration seamless.
So—what’s different in 2026, and what’s the same here in Minnesota? Let’s break it down vendor by vendor.
What’s the Same
Cash is still king. While Venmo or Zelle are popular, a crisp envelope presented on the day-of remains the most appreciated (and easiest for wedding-day logistics).
Discretion matters. Assign your coordinator or a trusted person to hand out pre-addressed envelopes—you’ll be far too busy celebrating.
Not every vendor expects a tip. Some are business owners, and a glowing review or referral may mean more than cash.
What’s Different in 2026
Digital tipping is becoming normal. More vendors now add QR codes to contracts, proposals, or even day-of signage. If you prefer cash, you’re still in the clear, but digital isn’t “tacky” anymore.
Hybrid vendor roles. Many vendors wear multiple hats—your florist might also be styling candles, or your DJ may double as emcee and production manager. Tipping should reflect the scope of their contribution.
Minimum wage shifts. Hospitality staff (servers, bartenders, banquet captains) are more often included in automatic service charges—so read contracts carefully. Tipping “on top” is a bonus, not always a baseline.
Vendor-by-Vendor Guide
DJ
Range: $100–$300, or 10–15% of their fee if they exceeded expectations.
DJs are part entertainer, part crowd psychologist. If they kept the dance floor alive all night, a heartfelt cash tip (and a rave review) is the ultimate thank-you.
Ceremony Musicians / Bands
Range: $20–$50 per musician.
If they learned your special song or played extra sets, a bit more shows your gratitude.
Wedding Coordinator
Range: $200–$500 (if not already factored into their fee).
Many planners don’t expect tips, but a generous couple often chooses to honor the long hours that extend far beyond the wedding day.
If you tip the Coordinator's assistant, $50-100 is customary.
Venue Coordinator
Typically salaried—no tip expected. But a thoughtful thank-you card, flowers, or gift card after the wedding is a lovely gesture if they went above and beyond.
Banquet Captain & Catering Staff
Range: $50–$150 for banquet captain.
Range: $25–$50 per server or back-of-house staffer (sometimes pooled).
In 2026, most venues add a 20–25% service fee. If you don’t see it in your contract, tip generously. If you do, tipping beyond that is optional, but always appreciated.
Bartenders
Range: $50–$100 each.
If the bar is hosted, check whether gratuity is included. If not, it’s customary to cover tips so guests aren’t expected to.
Photographers & Videographers
Owners: No tip expected.
Associates / Second Shooters: $50–$150 each.
These artists work marathon days. If they went above and beyond—stayed late, wrangled rowdy relatives, or delivered early—you can always choose to tip.
Photobooth Vendor
Range: $50–$100, especially if they brought extra props, managed printing, or stayed late.
Baker (Cake or Desserts)
Not traditionally tipped—unless delivery/setup was especially complex. $20–$50 for the delivery team is kind.
Florist
Owners: No tip expected.
Delivery / Setup Crew: $20–$50 each, especially if they flipped a ceremony space into a reception room.
If they stay or come back to pick up rentals, consider a generous tip even if they are an owner.
Transportation (Shuttle, Limo, or Bus Drivers)
Range: $50–$100 per driver, depending on the length of service and number of trips.
If they stayed late, helped guests load belongings, or navigated tricky rural roads in the dark, an extra thank-you is always appreciated.
Pro tip: If gratuity is already included in the contract (common in 2026), an additional $20–$40 in cash directly to the driver shows your personal thanks.
Other Artists (Calligrapher, Stationer, Painter, etc.)
No tip expected. A handwritten thank-you note or sharing their work on social media is the most meaningful currency.
Final Thought
Tipping in 2026 isn’t about checking a box. It’s about recognizing the humans behind the magic. Whether through cash, a kind gift, or a glowing review, you’re affirming the artistry, sweat, and service that made your Minnesota wedding unforgettable.
And remember: a hug, a smile, and a “we couldn’t have done this without you” still mean more than any dollar amount.
✨ Pro Tip for Minnesota Couples: Because service fees and contracts vary so widely here, read the fine print early. Your coordinator can help you make a customized tipping plan that avoids double-tipping and ensures every envelope lands in the right hands.
