Holiday Tipping Guide
Tis the season to be merry – but I find myself confused when it comes to deciding how much to shell out as a tip for the service providers in…
Tis the season to be merry - but I find myself confused when it comes to deciding how much to shell out as a tip for the service providers in my life. What do you get the world's best mailman or the stylist who hears your deepest, darkest secrets every 6 weeks?
Below are some guidelines from Care.com that can help you decide how to fill that envelope.
According to Ms. Etiquette herself (Emily Post), here are some things to consider:
- The quality and frequency of the service you receive.
- Your relationship with the service provider.
- The number of years you've been using the service.
- Your budget: You should never feel obligated to go beyond what you can reasonably afford.
Child Care
Babysitter: Average day/evening pay for regular sitters and a small gift from your kids
Nanny: 1-2 weeks pay + small gift from kids
Daycare / Child Care Center: $10-30 or small gift from kiddos
Hair stylist
Cost of 1 session
Although they do say that if you tip all year long, don't break your bank at the holidays.
Coffee Shop Barista
About $20 if you see them often.
Dry Cleaner
(I honestly didn't even think of this!) $10-20 or a homemade good
Fitness Instructor
Cost of one session
Trash Collector
$10-30
House Cleaner
Cost of one session (if they come regularly)
Small gift if infrequent
PETS!
Pet Sitter: $20-50
Kennel Staff: Homemade or Handmade gift
Pet Trainer: cost of one session
Nail Salon Technician
Cost of one session
Postal Worker / Mail Carrier
Food, such as baked goods, or non-cash gift worth less than $20
School Bus Driver
Small, non-cash gift
