Appropriate Tipping for Catering

Okay, so this is the first time I've hired a caterer and I'm feeling a little angsty over what an appropriate amount to tip would be. Then it occurred to me--what better group of folks to ask then the forumites?

First: There is no service charge included in the bill. She has organized our rentals and planned our menu; this person has been a delight with whom to work. What service charge percentage is standard and what is exceptional? Do I base this on the total food/labor bill or the total food/labor/rentals bill?

Second: There is a beer/wine bar but we've had to provide the alcohol per our contract with our venue. So there is no set amount that the caterer is charging us for alcohol; other than I think $1 per head to cover alcohol license. So how is a tip for the bartenders determined? Should this be included or separate from the food tip?

Thanks for the advice.

I've hired a few caterers, and the gratuity is usually included at 18%.

I would ask if the help is covered in the cost. If so then you can always give a little extra for the great service.

I second the motion on both of the answers given so far.....

Ask if the service was included and tip accordingly.......

if it not...18% is the norm...if it's good service.....

I have worked in private clubs for most of my 19 years of cooking, we would a charge 15-20% tip, automatically, check the contract, always use a contract.

This protects you and the caterer, if your caterer doesn't have a contract or at least a brochure to outline there policies, then suggest to them to maybe start making one. Not for you, but for their future business practices.

Most people will use a caterer 3-4 times their entire life, so the caterer should educate the customer on what to expect.
If labor is charged, and no gratuity is added on, then you should tip according to your satisfaction-15% for good service, a little more for great and a little less for passable service. Generally the bar will have a tip jar if you allow it and the service staff will tip out the bartenders. But that is an internal matter, just tip the 18% on the total bill.

An extra tip to the kitchen staff is always appreciated, if the food was great.