How to tip - Spa package?

Sunny1inTucson

I remember a few weeks back there was a lot of drama about tipping furniture delivery guys. Well, now I need your input on how to tip for a spa package.

Obviously I tip for individual services (massage, manicure, etc.), but when you have multiple different people helping you - and you are using a gift certificate - do you just give cash at the end of the day and have the attendant divvy it out amongst the people that helped you? Do I really need to research the usual average cost of each service and then estimate from there?

Thanks! I'm finally using the package DH got me months ago!! Wanted to wait until I really needed it.

Sunny1inTucson

Oh and btw, the gift certificate says "gratuity included" on it - 1) what does that even mean? and 2) I assume I still am expected to tip anyway, right?

JARbaby

Scratch that, grat incl I woudl not tip unless one gives AMAZING service.

Snooks

The cost for the gratuity (tip) is already included in what was paid if you tip more that would be your choice.

I know I took my mom to a beautiful resort/spa last year for her birthday and at the desk up front they had a tip box, and you basically just filled out an envelope and they divvied the tips up amongst the women/men who worked on you.   Apparently it worked well because the staff was amazing, but I guess each place will be different.

candreco

Gratuity is the tip, like in a restaurant where gratuity is automatically added for large parties.  It's kind of a nice touch that tip is included with the gift certificate, but a little awkward too since you don't know how much is included, and whether you feel it's appropriate.

 

MrsNFB

If it says that gratuity is included, it means that you do not have to tip.

Whenever I buy service gift certificates (massages, manicures, etc), I always also include gratuity so the gift recipient does not have to worry about anything. 

Have fun!

BearsMrs

When I've been to the spa on a gc- at the end they give you multiple envelopes- one for each person who worked on you & you put the money in the envelopes & put it in their box or you could give it to the front person.  I tipped based on how much the service would have cost me at 20% tip rate. 

Sunny1inTucson

Ok thanks. I know literally what gratuity included means. But in terms of "spa etiquette" I wasn't sure if it was genuine or just something they say.

sara1817

At the spa I go to the tip is 18-20%, and you give the money at the very end when you are paying for the total package. I usually include it when I buy a spa gift certificate for ease.