Sunday, June 13, 2010

Tipping in Beauty Land



i thought i might take a minute to discuss tipping because i don't think its ever properly addressed, in the beauty world, that is. in terms of restaurants 15% is generally an accepted percentage that most of us adhere to, but what about salons and other grooming services? here's what i think:

- tipping is for good service. 15% is a minimum, but i often tip a lot more. i don't like to fiddle around with coins in these scenarios, so i tend to tip in denominations of 5$.

- if you didn't like the service, you don't have to leave a good tip! or for that matter, one at all. however, in such cases, i am usually honest and vocal with the person about what displeased me. and of course, i don't intend to return to the establishment.

- good tipping is an excellent way to build a relationship with your stylist/manicurist/esthetician. you're happy with the service, you leave a good tip, they're happy with their tip, they continue to give you good service. its a beautiful little circle.

- remember to tip the shampoo girl in addition to your stylist (she works hard too!). also, if 2 different ladies do your mani and pedi, be sure to tip each of them individually.

- if you receive a free service i.e. bang trim or nail touch-up, i highly recommend leaving at least a few dollars to show that you are appreciative. you do as you will, but i think its kind and considerate, and again, builds relationship!! the more they like you, the more they are going to care about your hair/nails/brazilian wax ;)

- in my opinion, if you tip well all year long you are in no way obligated to gift around any particular holiday, unless you so choose.

- there are certain settings in which tips are not required, or are downright inappropriate. in my very humble opinion, these are medical or clinical type settings in which the services you receive are from a professional, i.e. registered massage therapist, electrologist, laser hair removal tech. however, please feel free to comment if you disagree!

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