It’s Mrs. Dante’s birthday today (song was sung, royalties were paid), and as a gift, I gave her a 1/2 day spa treatment. Manicure, pedicure, 1 hour massage, and a mud wrap. She’s gone to this spa before, and they have a little sign that says something to the effect of “If you would like to tip our staff, please use one of these little envelopes and give it to the receptionist with your name”, but more subtle.
My question is, is there a set percentage for tipping at a spa, as there is for restaurants? The last time she went, she tipped $50, which I figure is about right, but I’m interested in the Doper Opinion. FYI, the spa day costs about $250.
Opinions from those in the spa, salon, and beauty fields are appreciated. Your tip is with the receptionist.
Tipping at the spa is not like tipping a server at a restaurant. Spa employees make quite a bit more than the regular hourly minimum wage. They aren’t dependent on tips for a “living wage.” Also, at many spas, the aestheticians get a cut of the price of every treatment.
I never tip less than $5 and rarely more than 10%. And I know for a fact that I am considered a good tipper at my spa. At spas, it’s a courtesy to show appreciation for a good job. It’s not a requirement like it is w/ waitstaff.
Etiquette tip: never, ever tip the owner of a spa, if they are the one who gives you the treatment. That is apparently Bad Form.