This holiday tipping guide will help you answer those confusing questions about how much you should tip at holiday time.
There are many kind people who help you do what needs to be done throughout the year.
You want to appropriately recognize their efforts at holiday time. It can be overwhelming to know what to do. Is a tip the right thing? Is a gift the correct etiquette?
Our old friend Claudia Clueless has a lot to be thankful for this year. She was going 85 in a 65 on her way to an estate sale. She was pumped about snapping up a vintage harmonica at a deep discount.
Well, Officer Nicetry was not so pumped. He slapped Claudia with a speeding ticket that would have cost her big bucks and points on her license, possibly raising the price of her car insurance premium.
Claudia’s lawyer Janet Justice marched into court and got her off with a reduced fine and no points. Phew!
Claudia is ready to grease Janet’s palms with some crisp Benjamins for saving her a$$.
But, no, Claudia, STOP!
Read the holiday tipping guide before you do anything gauche and possibly unethical.
Here we go with the holiday tipping guide.
#1 Doorman/Doorwoman/Concierge: $100
A New York City doorman who has worked in the profession for over two decades says staff always prefer a tip in cash.
Although cookies, wine, or another gift are nice, giving a gift with a cash tip is the right thing to do.
Consider your relationship with the staff of your building. Do you live alone, and they frequently help you zip up a dress or put jewelry on as you head out? Do you receive a ton of packages? Do you ask for help with random tasks like feeding a cat if you are out of town or helping you carry bags from shopping trips?
As a high-value woman who is empathetic and respectful, if you are getting a lot of extra services, perhaps a larger tip is appropriate for you to give.
If you live in a building with a large number of staff, oftentimes the building management will hand out envelopes with everyone’s name on them and some tipping guidelines.
Refer to this list and feel free to ask other residents what they are tipping so you can get a sense of what is expected.
#2 Live-in Nanny: Cash Tip Up To One Week’s Pay and a Gift
A live-in nanny works closely with your family. A thoughtful gift and cash tip of up to one week’s pay is appropriate.
#3 Personal Trainer: Cash Tip Up to The Cost of One Session
#4 Dog Walker: One Week’s Pay in Cash
The holiday tipping guide leaves this one flexible based on how much you use the dog walker. Does the dog walker come every day? If so, then you will tip what you pay the dog walker in a week. If the dog walker only comes once a week and charges $50, then a $50 tip is appropriate.
#5 Dog Groomer: Cash Tip Equivalent to One Session
Your dog groomer puts a lot of effort into making your best friend feel and look their best. A cash tip equivalent to one grooming session is appropriate.
