Gratuity (or tipping) has been a topic of debate throughout history. It has been discussed thoroughly in etiquette books for decades and many agree that it is necessary in certain circumstances. One of the most widely discussed venues and agreed upon scenarios for tipping is in restaurants. Here, experts and the public seem to agree that a tip should be between 10-20% of the final bill. The actual percentage tipped; however, tends to be determined by a number of factors such as the environment (more for upscale and less for casual establishments), the number of people in the dining party and the quality of the service itself. While this is deemed a basic and widely understood practice involved in dining out, not all scenarios involving gratuity are as cut and dry. Tipping at your local Davie hair salon, for instance, is one of them.
Is It Appropriate to Tip My Hair Stylist?
The short answer is yes! Hair stylists are experts in their niche and are professionals who provide a service. In most instances, it is always appropriate to tip a service provider—the exception being doctors and lawyers where ethics come into play. Otherwise, service providers often depend on gratuity as part of their income.
How Much Should I Tip?
The consensus for tripping a hair stylist seems to be that a satisfied customer should tip around 20% of the pre-taxed price of the service provided. For example, if you receive a haircut that costs $40.00 before taxes, a tip of $8.00 would be appropriate. Like in a restaurant setting; however, you may opt to tip more for phenomenal service. This is especially true if you have your hair cut or colored by a stylist who is considered a “master” at their craft.
If you felt that the service provided was lacking; however, you can adjust the tip amount accordingly. If you are totally unsatisfied, do not feel obligated to tip. Instead, be honest with your stylist and give them the opportunity to rectify the situation. Making clients look and feel fantastic is part of a hair stylist’s craft and they strive to ensure that all clients leave the salon feeling thrilled about their new look.
Should I Tip Other Salon Staff Members?
Often, you will have several staff members that work together during your time at a hair salon (including the owner). Perhaps you have one person shampooing your hair, a different person waxing your eyebrows, a colorist applying color and a stylist cutting your locks. In this case, it is appropriate to split the tip amongst several staff members. You may also tip a different amount for everyone depending on their level of involvement. For example, you may wish to tip the shampooer $2.00 and the person who waxed your brows, or applied your color, more. This can be done simply by handing them cash individually or by specifying the amount you want to tip to each staff member as you make your payment.
What About the Holidays?
During the holidays, many loyal clients opt to give additional tips or even gifts to their service providers from postal workers to trash collectors. While it is not expected and certainly not mandatory, if you wish to give an additional tip to your hairstylist during the holidays it is appropriate and much appreciated. If you prefer to go with a gift, there is no need to make it over the top. A gift as simple as a card can make your stylist feel genuinely appreciated during the most joyous (and hectic) time of the year.
Keep in mind that tipping is a highly personal choice and you should never tip an amount that is more than you feel comfortable with. In either case, gratuity at the hair salon—and anywhere it is appropriate—is always deeply appreciated and reflects a job well done. If you are in need of the expertise of one of our top hair stylists in Davie, Florida; book your appointment online today.