Many brides-to-be have been wondering about this question as they navigate the difficult process of choosing the perfect dress for their big day. Although tipping is common in most service industries, there are some rules that apply to bridal stylists.

Do You Tip Your Bridal Stylist?

In most bridal shops, tipping is neither mandatory nor expected. However, it’s always appreciated. The decision to tip stylists depends on a number of factors including the service level, budget, and cultural norms.

In recent years, tipping your bridal stylist has been a popular way to express your gratitude for helping you find the dress of your dreams. These professionals wear many hats. They can be therapists, mediators, and referees for you and your guests at the appointment.

Why You Should Tip Your Bridal Stylist

Ask your stylist about the standards at their shop. Not all stylists will receive a commission on dresses purchased, and not all bridal shops will accept tips. Ask your stylist about the preferred method of gratuity. Some stylists prefer to receive a 5-star review on Google, or their own website.

These professionals dedicate their time to helping you find the perfect dress. They also provide valuable guidance and encouragement during the entire decision-making process. Does this merit a tip? Here are some reasons why you may want to tip your bridal stylists. Especially if they have exceeded expectations or gone above and beyond.

1. It takes a long time to get an appointment

The majority of wedding dress shops will offer you a one and a half hour appointment with a stylist who works closely with your. As in any service-oriented business, bridal stylists devote their time and expertise to you and your guests exclusively for the time slotted.

When you receive outstanding service in a restaurant, it is common to tip more than the standard 20%.

By tipping your bridal stylists according to the time of your appointment, you can show your respect and appreciation for their commitment and dedication to providing efficient service. If your stylists schedule multiple appointments or extend their time window, it is worth considering.

2. They help you through a vulnerable process

Shopping for a wedding gown is a stressful experience for brides, especially when you consider the emotional impact of choosing the perfect dress, the body image issues, the family dynamics, and the financial commitment a dress represents. The wedding dress is a bride’s most important piece of clothing. It represents everything she wants for her big day.

You can add to the stress by trying on multiple dresses that fit perfectly in front of a mirror, your bridal consultant, and family members and friends. This will only increase your insecurities. In addition to the other stresses, brides should also consider their budget, and not allow themselves to be swayed by dresses that are outside of their budget.

These factors can create a hostile or intense environment for someone unfamiliar with you or your guests. Bridal stylists still strive to manage brides’ expectations and be their advocate while also trying to understand what they want, need, and can afford.

3. They play both therapist and referee

It’s not unusual to have a mix of opinions, wants and needs when you combine all the stressors above with your family and friends. It can be challenging to make the bride happy and be her advocate while also taking into consideration the opinions and thoughts of other members.

Bridal stylists often end up in the role of a referee and therapist, trying to maintain positive relationships with the bride, while also joking around the family and friends at the appointment. This can be a difficult task.

How Much Should You Tip Your Bridal Stylist?

You’ve decided to tip your stylists after a successful appointment as a gesture of appreciation. How much should you tip a bridal stylist? The tipping etiquette for this industry can differ depending on your budget, the services provided, and the culture of the bridal shop.

If you are satisfied with the service, it is customary to give a tip of 10 to 20 percent or $50 to $100, depending on your budget and level of satisfaction.

Ask about their gratuity policies as well. As mentioned above, certain boutiques might already have an integrated gratuity policy, or they may not even be allowed to accept tips, depending on the commission they receive. It never hurts to discuss gratuity with your stylist.

This post was written by a professional at Michele Renee The Studio. Michele Renee The Studio Specializes in bridal hair and makeup in Tampa. Based in Tampa, FL, we serve a global client base for weddings, boudoir, corporate, film, television, social events, photo shoots, and more! Contact us now to schedule your appointment for your wedding hair and makeup!