Navigating tipping etiquette is tricky enough during the regular year, let alone determining what gratuities are suitable over the festive season.

As the year draws to an end, many wish to show their appreciation to service providers with a monetary ‘thank you’. Should you be tipping your hairdresser, gardener or dog walker?

Etiquette gurus say rigid holiday tipping guidelines are now a thing of the past. These days, it’s more relaxed and comes down to what feels right for you and your bank balance.

“The worldwide pandemic and inflation have impacted us in the United States, and now folks are just sort of righting the ship. Because of that, with this new holiday season coming up, the etiquette with tipping has shifted as well,” explains California-based expert Elaine Swann, founder of The Swann School of Protocol.

Swann declares 2023 as the year for refreshed holiday tipping recommendations. Previously, the standard advice was to give set amounts depending on the service. But Swann says this was unrealistic and unhelpful for the regular customer.

“It’s important to be more thoughtful so we can be more prudent,” she comments, “Develop a hierarchy and make a list to tip the people who have the greatest impact on your life throughout the year.”

Valerie Sokolosky, founder of leadership development company Valerie & Company in Texas, agrees tipping is about cherishing key relationships. She recommends gratuities for those who have meant a lot or assisted you significantly across the year.

“We tip because we are recognizing and respecting people who have given us good service throughout the year,” she highlights.

Both experts confirm it’s appropriate to tip individuals like doormen who’ve gone beyond their job scope to help with parcels or lockouts. Similarly, gardening crews who provided additional service.

Figuring out who and how much is straightforward, Swann reassures. Top your list with those having maximum impact then decide your overall tipping budget. She suggests dedicating around 20% of your total festive gift expenditure.

“I want to empower the consumer to feel confident for what works for their own budget,” Swann adds.

This holiday season, tipping thoughtfully is the new mantra.