Tipping Security and Valet

[leaguer]

I have two questions. First, my organization has an event coming up where we have hired security to be on hand for the five days of the event. In the past, we have tipped the security personnel at the end of the event. This has always been a bit contentious among members as sometimes the tips have been huge. Are we supposed to tip the security personnel and if so, how much. If we aren't supposed to, but would like to, what do you recommend.

My second question is for the same event, we have hired a valet car service to valet cars on the opening night event. At the end of the evening (after all guests have left), do we also tip the valet service. I don't know if the guests are tipping them when they bring their car (there is no charge to the guest for the valet service), but I'm assuming they probably are. Whether they are or not, is my organization also supposed to tip them for their overall service and if so, how much. Thank you!

p.s. - I found information on tipping movers on your site that is very helpful - we also have this tip to do for this event as well. Thanks.

[jamesglewisf]

I've never heard of tipping security personnel. If you still want to, then I'm guessing $5-20 per guard per night. The truth is that I don't know how much you are already paying for the security. I could answer better if I knew that.

I had a company party at my home, and many guests did not use the valet parking because they didn't know it was free. If you still have time, I would let the guests know in advance that it is completely free and that no tipping is required. I don't believe that people should have to pay for anything when they are guests to a function. I would have the organization provide tipping at the end. Normally, the service will tell you how many cars they parked. Tip them $2-3 per car depending upon the weather conditions. I'd go with $3 if it is raining or extremely hot/cold weather. Some valet services have a gratuity that is automatically a part of the contract. Ask in advance.

For both of these situations and for just about any other possible tipping situation, I recommend discussing tipping with the service provider when you are discussing the contract. Oftentimes, they automatically include a service fee. They will never be offended by your asking, and they will tell you what the standard practice is.