Did you tip the seamstress?

I get my dress next week and have no idea if a tip is expected and if so how much to give? She owns her own business and I'm paying $320 for hem and bustle and slightly taking in the top. What do you think?

 

Thanks :-)

I'm picking up my dress today and am not giving a tip...not sure if that is proper ettiquette or not but for the price they are charging me for the same alterations as you...I think it's more than enough! Mind you, I am having my dress altered at the bridal salon where I purchased my gown...

I wouldn't tip, it's a service your paying for.

I don't tip the dealership when I get my car serviced so I wouldn't tip my seamstress when I get my dress serviced! lol

I didn't tip. I never even thought about it really!

I say you don't need to tip. They are charging you what they think their service is worth, so that should be enough for them. Other workers like waiters and movers who are usually getting a salary and don't have the ability to charge what they think they are worth should be tipped as seen fit for their service, IMO.

I don't think a tip is necessary either-- after all what they charge is crazy sometimes!

Good question and good answers. I was wondering the same thing. My friend recommended one of her good friends to me and I was worried about making my friend look bad if I didn't tip.

Thanks Ladies!! I am getting my dress this week and I didn't want to seem cheap. I had no idea what proper etiquette was for this situation. She is a nicce lady and came to my house for fittings, but I am also paying $325 for a hem, a bustle and taking it in a pinch at the top. That is more than I paid for my dress (i got my dress at filenes running of the bride for $225!!)

Good question. My seamstress is making my dress from scratch. Do you think the same tipping rule applies in my situation? I was thinking of tipping her once I pick up my dress in two weeks.

Honestly, I don't think it is necessary even if she is making it from scratch. Trust me, she will charge you accordingly for that service to what she feels is fair for her time and efforts. It is not like a waitress who has to serve you and get paid the same whether you are getting water or a 5-course customized meal and she has to kill the cow from scratch. It's the same reason you don't tip your doctor or your lawyer; they are charging you what they see fit, not what some big wing above their heads decides to charge.

Now, if she is giving you an amazing deal and you know she is short-changing herself to meet your needs, you may feel moved to show extra appreciation. That is completely personal and what you feel good about. But it is certainly not expected in the same way it is expected that you tip your waiter.