Basic holiday tipping rules

With Christmas almost here, it is important to express your appreciation for the people that give you service on a regular basis. And in Sedona, where luxury living is an everyday fact, it is especially important to remember holiday tipping rules.

Delivery services

• Mail carriers: Non-cash gifts are best. They should be between $5 and $20 in value and can include things as cookies, chocolates, mugs, pens and beverages.
• Paper carriers: $10 for weekend only and $25 for daily delivery.
• UPS: If you see a regular driver, $15 is acceptable.
• FedEx: NO CASH. But gifts of up to $25 in value are possible.

Child care services

Note that all holiday tipping to child care providers should include a small gift from the child.

• Regular babysitter: One night’s pay
• Au pair: One week’s pay
• Day care: $25-$70
• Nanny, full-time: One week or one month’s pay, depending on how long s/he has been with you
• Coaches, dance instructors, tutors, etc: Gift from the child
• Teacher: Gift certificate with value between $25 and $100.
  

Home care and personal care services

• Maid (not with a service — one you hired): One week’s pay.
• Gardener: $20 - $50
• Hair stylist: At least $15
• Manicurist/pedicurist: At least $15
• Massage therapist: at least $15
• Parking attendants: $10 - $20
  

At the country club, you should tip $50 for waiters, golf professionals, front-desk and locker-room. For special services and head waiters, $100 is acceptable.

For more on Sedona luxury living, contact Claudia Ault.

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