tipping etiquette

It's been awhile, but I finally went to get my nails done today, in preparation for the wedding this weekend in Toronto. It was so relaxing, and I'm glad I went!

When I paid the woman who did my nails and told her she could keep the change as a tip, she looked at me with a smile and said, "Thank you so much." Twice. It led me to believe that no one really tips when they get their nails done at that salon.

After working in restaurants for a couple years, I began to realize how important tips are. Now I give about 15%-20% of my bill each time because I hate to see the waiters, stylists, drivers - whoever it may be - get upset.

Photo by SoundsGood

All too often though, I see that people don't really know how to give tips. They'll give just 10% or under, even when their service is outstanding. Here are some tips I've conjured up from around the web about proper tipping etiquette (not for all services, but this is a great starting point!):

• Dinner at a full service restaurant: 15%-20%
• Bartender: 15%-20% of entire bill, or $1 per drink
• Coat check: $1 (unless it's free)
• Valet parking: $2 per car
• Manicurist: 15%-20% of the entire bill
  
• Hair stylist: 15% or more (if they did an amazing job or cut your hair in a complicated style) of the entire bill
  
• Facialist: 15%

I hope some of these helped! Did they?