I always find the business of tipping at a salon or spa an uncomfortable process, since I'm never sure of "tipping etiquette." Who should I tip and how much. Figuring I wasn't the only one who experienced "tipping anxiety", I decided to take the matter to some pros and asked friends who own or work at spas or salons to answer some of my questions about tipping. (Thanks for your help guys and gals.) Below you can find the list of questions I asked, and the answers I put together from both their comments and my own experience. As an aside, salons with a "no tipping policy" do exist. Click on the link for a list.
What is a normal tip for services?
A tip should typically fall within the 15% to 20% range. (This is before tax is added.)
Are there circumstances when you should tip more than 15% to 20%?
If the service provider either did something out of the ordinary or did something that took a great deal of time (such as major make-overs, color correction, etc.) you might want to consider leaving a larger tip.
Who else should you tip other than the person who performs the service?
At a salon, you should tip the person who shampoos your hair ($5) and the person who blow dries your hair other than the stylist ($10). It is not necessary to tip the receptionist or someone who brings you a drink.
Should I use an envelope to put the tip in or is it okay to give the service provider the cash without the envelope?
If the spa or salon provides envelopes for tips at the front desk, it is customary to use them.
Should I put my name on the envelope so that the service provider knows the tip is from me?
You should write both your name and the name of the person for whom the tip is intended on the envelope. Don't write the amount of money you put inside the envelope on the envelope itself.
Should I leave the tip at the front desk or give it directly to the service provider? If I leave it at the front desk, how do I know the service provider has actually received the tip?
You can leave the tip in an envelope at the front desk or give it to the person who provided the service, whatever makes you more comfortable. Don't worry about leaving it at the front desk. It will make it to the appropriate person.
If my service provider is the owner of the salon or spa, should I tip him or her?
Although tipping the owner is not "required," a tip is customarily given -- even if its a token. However, I have seen situations where the salon owner will not accept tips under any circumstances. If I plan to see the salon or spa owner, I always ask the receptionist what custom is for tipping him or her when booking my first appointment.
How much should I tip if I don't like the service(s) provided?
If you are unhappy with the service, first talk to the person who performed it. If you don't receive a satisfactory answer, speak to the manager and/or owner (depending upon the particular salon or spa involved). Most reputable places will stand behind their work and try to make the client happy. In these instances you have to use your own judgment. My rule of thumb is to leave some sort of a tip (nothing too insulting) if I'm even considering returning. You may want to ask for guidance from the manager/owner if its gotten to that point. Even if you decide not to tip the service provider, you should tip people like the shampoo person.
At holiday time, should I give my service providers a holiday gift?
To some extent it depends upon your relationship with the service provider, but a gift is always appreciated. An extra envelope with cash is an option and often the preferred one. However, depending upon the person a more personal gift may be well received. For instance, I often give wine to people who I know enjoy it. Just think about his or her likes and dislikes when selecting a gift.
One More Point
Remember, both the people who were so generous with their advice as well as my own experience is primarily "Manhattan centric." Tipping customs may differ in different regions of the country and parts of the world. When in doubt, ask the receptionist -- he or she will almost always help you out with an honest answer.
