Dear Jacquelyn,

Holiday tips are always a nice way of saying “thank you.” This year I have relied on so many people. How do I go about deciding who I should give a holiday tip to?

Dear Reader,

Traditionally, holiday-tipping recommendations vary depending on the service and your relationship with the service provider.

This year, the rules for holiday tipping are a little different. More than ever, we are all relying on many people to make our lives a little easier. To determine to whom you would like to show gratitude, use common sense, specific circumstances and holiday spirit as your guide.

Holiday tips do not need to be over the top. Be honest with yourself about how much you can spend. You should never feel obligated to go beyond what you can reasonably afford.

Set up your budget ahead of time because it can add up fast. If your budget does not allow for tips, consider a homemade gift. Never let the thought of not doing enough keep you from doing something. That spirit of thanks and generosity is exactly what tipping around the holidays is all about.

Keeping with the spirit of the holiday season, if you are giving a holiday tip to a regular service-provider spend some time on the package.

Wrap it up in some festive paper and a little bow. This extra step shows your appreciation and is a true holiday perk.

When considering how much to tip delivery workers and those in the service field who are putting their health on the line, a tip above and beyond a pre-calculated tip will be greatly appreciated.

While any time is a good time to show your appreciation for someone who regularly makes your life easier, during this holiday season show your gratefulness with an act of gratitude.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training. She is on the board of directors of the National Civility Foundation.

All Rights Reserved &Copy; 2020 Jacquelyn Youst