Curious about whether to tip for beauty services during Chinese New Year? Well, when it comes to CNY tipping in Singapore, it might not be the norm, but let’s explore the delightful realm of gratitude and glamour during this festive season.
The Personal Touch: Tipping Tales
Picture this: you’re at your favorite salon, chatting away with your hairstylist during a fabulous hair treatment. In Singapore, tipping might not be expected, but some find it a sweet way to express gratitude. She throws in a little extra for the person washing her hair, acknowledging that their wages might not be soaring.
Festive Bonding and Beauty
Services like hair treatments, manicures, and massages often lead to unexpected friendships. A trip to the salon becomes a social affair, and over time, clients like Lisa and Clara start regarding their beauty professionals as more than just service providers. It’s not unusual for these bonds to outlast romantic relationships, making occasions like Chinese New Year and Christmas ripe for gift-giving.
Festive Flair: Tipping Traditions
Now, let’s talk about the juicy part – the festive season. Christmas gifts for hairstylists’ daughters and red packets during Chinese New Year; these are the norm for clients like Clara and Grace. For Grace, a lawyer, a hongbao of S$68 isn’t just a tip; it’s a symbol of appreciation and best wishes for the upcoming year. Even others, like Jean from the finance industry, hop on the tipping train during the season.
Beauty Pros and Tipping Joy
Image from iStock
Ever wondered how beauty professionals feel about these festive tips? Eileen Koh, a senior hair stylist at Philosophy Studio, spills the beans. She beams with happiness when receiving a tip or a generous hongbao, especially during Chinese New Year. It’s not just about the money; it’s a gesture that brings a smile to both giver and receiver.
Guiding the Grateful: Tipping Etiquette
For those pondering the delicate art of tipping, here’s some friendly advice. If you love the service or share a strong connection with your beauty pro, a tip or a gift is a fantastic way to say thanks. Feeling a bit shy about a separate tip? No worries – rounding up the cost during payment works like a charm.
Comfortable Tipping: Making It Your Own
Since tipping isn’t the standard, any amount above the fee is generally appreciated. Jade, a legal professional, chimes in, suggesting S$10 to S$20 depending on the service. And guess what? 10% of the cost is a neat benchmark. But hey, it’s all about what you’re comfortable with.
Personal Touch: Handing Tips Directly
Image from iStock
Making it personal adds that extra touch of warmth. Want your tip to go directly to the person who made you look fabulous? Hand it over personally. While adding it to the total bill isn’t a crime, it might end up in a shared pool – not exactly the personal touch you intended.
Festive Gifting: A Thoughtful Alternative
If direct tipping feels a bit too formal, consider festive gifts. Think hampers or delicious baked goods – generic yet thoughtful. It’s a win-win, especially if you’re unsure about the personal preferences of your beauty and wellness pro.
So there you have it – a journey through the charming world of CNY tipping. As the Lunar New Year approaches, embrace the opportunity to express your gratitude in a way that brings joy to both sides of the beauty chair. Happy tipping!
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