Who do we tip and how much?

You are not expected to tip your wedding vendors unless gratuity is not included in your total fee or their service was exceptional. There are however a few exceptions: It's not uncommon for the bride and groom to tip the wedding planner if they have one. It's a great way to say thanks and show appreciation for all the hard work they put in to making your dream wedding come true. If you normally tip your hairstylist and makeup artist, then do so (15 to 25 percent is a good estimate).

You are expected to make a donation to the religious institution associated with your officiate -- especially when you're also getting married there. For a non-denominational officiant, the standard fee he or she charges should suffice.

If you're working with a private caterer, their tip is quite often included in the quoted fee. (Note: Some hotels do include extra service charges so stay on the lookout for this.) Make sure you ask whether gratuities are included before signing any contract. If not, here's a recommended tip budget to plan for:

• Valet parking - $1/car
• Coat check - $1/guest for each coat room attendant
• Powder room attendants - $1/guest for each attendant
• Delivery truck drivers - $5 - $10 per person
• Limousine drivers - 15% - 20% of the total bill
• Waistaff - $20 - $25 per waiter
• Bartenders - $20 - $25 per bartender
• Table captains - 15% - 20% of the food and drink fee (based on labor, not the cost), or $200 - $300 for the maitre d'.

As far as advance tipping goes, the parking lot or bathroom attendants will appreciate being tipped in advance. (This is so your guests won't have to.) Be sure your guests know that you have done so, so that they will not feel an obligation to do so.

For more advice about tipping and to find out exactly how much it is customary to tip each service professional, see our article on budget extras.