Photo by René Ranisch on Unsplash
Tipping is an age-old practice that is particularly common in the United States, but in recent years, the practice has become more complicated as new technology has expanded tipping into new markets. Tipping can be even more confusing when it comes to a holiday like Valentine’s Day, as there are many more people out all trying to do the same things that you are trying to do. If you are planning on taking out a date for Valentine’s Day, here are some Valentine’s Date tipping tips that you can use as a guide.
Tip 1 – Tip at Least 15% for Any Service
Valentine’s date tipping etiquette calls for a tip of at least 15% of the total for your bill appropriate for any services provided to you on Valentine’s Day. If you have dinner in a restaurant or get served food and drinks during a show, the server should be tipped a minimum of 15%. If you decide to get drinks at a bar before or after dinner, the bartender or waiter should also receive a tip. This tip is a gratuity for services rendered and is counted as part of the servers’ pay for the day for their hard work.
Tip 2 – Tip at Least 20% for Good Service
Good service deserves a bigger tip than 15%, especially on a day like Valentine’s Day when there are so many people vying for the same services you are. If a server, waiter, bartender, or any other service provider gives you service with a smile and is attentive to the needs of your party, then you should give them a tip of at least 20% of the total amount of the bill. This shows that you appreciate how they have handled your service.
Tip 3 – Tip 25% to 30% for Exceptional Service
When a service provider goes above and beyond to make your Valentine’s Day date exceptional and unforgettable, you should show your appreciation with a tip of 25% to 30% of the total cost of the bill. This exceptional service may include a wide variety of things depending on the place and the circumstances. When you are provided with memorable service, you should leave a memorable tip.
Tip 4 – Don’t Forget About the Entertainers
One Valentine’s date tipping tip that many people forget about is tipping the entertainers who make the experience even more remarkable. On Valentine’s Day, many restaurants have live musicians playing music for their customers while they enjoy their meals. Often, they have a tipping receptacle in an obvious place for those who would like to leave a tip. In more casual establishments, a tip of $5 to $10 is appropriate. In more formal settings or if you have a special request, a higher tip amount should be given.
Final Thoughts
While these Valentine’s date tipping tips are important to know so you avoid a faux pas during your date, tipping is not the only thing you should keep in mind. For the best Valentine’s date, be attentive to your partner and be patient and kind to the service staff. Everyone wants to have a good experience, just as you do, and the service staff is trying their best to make the experience good for everyone. A tip is your way of saying “Thank you.”
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Toi Williams began her writing career in 2003 as a copywriter and editor and has authored hundreds of articles on numerous topics for a wide variety of companies. During her professional experience in the fields of Finance, Real Estate, and Law, she has obtained a broad understanding of these industries and brings this knowledge to her work as a writer.
