"Just a Token of Appreciation♡" Are You Ready to Prepare 'Tips' for the Staff Who Helped with Your Wedding?

2019.10.05 published

Weddings are made possible by the efforts of many people.

A wedding truly relies on the support and assistance of many individuals before it can take place. ♡

Especially the staff who work hard behind the scenes, even though they may never be seen, are a great reassurance for the bride and groom.

In Japanese weddings, there is a custom called "okozuke" to show appreciation to these staff members. Do you know about it?

＼Common Knowledge♡／ What is "okozuke"?

"Okozuke" refers to the monetary gifts or tips given to those who have helped you, as a way to express gratitude.

It may be thought of as somewhat similar to tips given overseas. *

In addition to weddings, many people might have given "okozuke" as a gesture of appreciation to service providers such as moving companies, funeral directors, or inn staff.

"Okozuke" is different from "thank you" gifts!

However, it’s important to note that "okozuke" is different from the "thank you" gifts given to guests who help with reception duties or offer speeches.

While it's essential to give "thank you" gifts to guests, "okozuke" for the staff is not necessarily obligatory!

In other words, "okozuke" is not a requirement, but rather a way to share happiness when you want to genuinely express your gratitude. ♡

@ayakax19

You want to show your appreciation to the wonderful staff who helped create your beautiful wedding!

However, some brides may not know when, to whom, or what to give for wedding "okozuke."

So this time, I will explain some useful information to prepare "okozuke."

Question 1: *Who should you give it to, and how much?

Determining the range of who you should give "okozuke" to can be quite challenging!

There are many staff members involved—even those who indirectly support the process—along with your planner and MC.

But generally speaking, the recipients of "okozuke" are as follows, along with the typical monetary amounts for cash gifts!

@chiii_wedding.33

(1) Wedding Planner: 5,000 - 10,000 yen / given by the bride and groom on the day or afterwards

(2) Assistant: 3,000 - 5,000 yen / given by the parents before the reception starts

(3) Captain or Leader or Person in Charge of Venue Staff: 10,000 yen / given by the parents before the reception starts (Make sure to tell the staff that it’s from everyone!♡)

(4) Photographer: 5,000 - 10,000 yen / given by the parents before rehearsal or shooting begins

(5) Hair and Makeup, Kimono Dressing: 5,000 - 10,000 yen / given by the parents during preparation

(6) MC: 5,000 - 10,000 yen / given by the parents before the reception starts

Question 2: *What are some recommended items for giving?

While it is common to give "okozuke" in cash, some venues may have rules against accepting cash gifts, or the service charge may already be included in the total payment!

If that’s the case, let's express your gratitude with a gift instead. *

(1) Items for female staff

Popular options include personalized lipsticks from Estée Lauder, bath salts, teacups, and towel gifts, among others!

If you know about the preferences of your planner from previous discussions, it would be fabulous to prepare items that suit their tastes! *

(2) Items for male staff or a large number of staff

If the planner is male, or if you're giving items to a large number of venue staff, "gift sets of sweets" are the most suitable option. *

Choose items that can be easily shared, such as individually wrapped treats. A thank-you message written beforehand will also be appreciated! ♡

➡ Cute "wedding ring-shaped cookies" are highly recommended!

➡ Here’s a selection of sweet gift ideas in the range of 3,000 to 4,000 yen! *

Who and when should "okozuke" be given?

Generally, the role of giving "okozuke" falls to the parents of the couple. Though "okozuke" should ideally be given directly from the couple as a gesture of thanks, on the day of, the couple is often busy.

Therefore, it has become customary for the parents to hand it over on their behalf.

Additionally, there are cases where the parents give "okozuke" separately from the couple. In such cases, it is natural for them to be the ones giving the gift.

The timing of giving can be before the ceremony or reception or after the reception’s send-off.

If given before the ceremony or reception, you can say something like "Thank you for today," while after the reception, a simple "Thank you for your assistance" works well.

However, if there's a tight schedule during the wedding reception, and the send-off becomes hurried, it's advisable to plan to hand over the gift during the initial greeting.

A Sign of Gratitude ♡ Let's Prepare "Okozuke" Properly!

How was that? ♡ I hope you have learned a bit more about wedding "okozuke"!

It’s best to prepare "okozuke" in cash, ensuring you have crisp new bills ready. To avoid a last-minute rush, it’s good to prepare a nice envelope a week in advance. ♡

"Okozuke" is certainly not a mandatory gift, but it is a heartfelt way to show appreciation for the staff who are working diligently to ensure your wedding is a success.

Preparing a thoughtful "okozuke" might be a lovely idea. ♩