Short answer: create a tip page in an app such as TipIns, print the QR code and put it on a small stand in your kit, set on the table with your brushes. Customers scan it with their phone camera and tip by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. They do not need an app or an account.
On a wedding morning six people sit in your chair, none of them is holding a wallet, and the person who paid the invoice is busy getting married. Tips that are intended in the moment are forgotten by the reception.
How a QR code tip jar works
You create a tip page once and get a personal QR code and link. A customer points their phone camera at the code, a secure payment page opens in their browser, and they pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. The tip shows in your balance straight away and is paid out to your bank account.
Where makeup artists put the code
- On a small stand in your kit, set on the table with your brushes.
- On the touch-up kit or card you leave with the bride.
- In your final invoice and thank-you email.
- On your business cards for the rest of the bridal party.
Size the code for the distance: a phone reads one from about ten times its width. The measurements are in how to make a tip jar QR code sign.
What to write on the sign
Feeling beautiful? Tips for [your name] are welcome. Scan to tip by card.
Put your own name where the brackets are. You can export a print-ready design from the app in business card, A5, A4 or A3 size.
How to mention it
To the group, once: "My code is on the table if anyone wants it later. No pressure today."
Your own code or a shared one
A personal code for a solo artist. A hair and makeup team that works weddings together can share one group code and split by agreed percentages.
What customers usually tip a makeup artist
Makeup artists in the US are usually tipped 15 to 20%, including for weddings and events.
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| $75 event makeup | $11 to $15 |
| $300 bridal makeup | $45 to $60 |
| Artist with an assistant | Tip the assistant $10 to $20 as well |
Customers looking for the etiquette can read how to tip a makeup artist without cash.
What it costs
TipIns is free to download and has no monthly fee. Each tip carries a 10% platform fee plus a small card processing fee, and by default the person tipping covers both, so you receive the amount they chose. Weekly payouts to your bank are free. The details are in the FAQ.
Common questions
Where should a makeup artist put a tip QR code?
On a small stand in your kit, set on the table with your brushes. On the touch-up kit or card you leave with the bride.
What should a makeup artist's tip sign say?
Try: "Feeling beautiful? Tips for [your name] are welcome. Scan to tip by card." Give a reason, show a large code and include your name.
Should I use a personal code or a team code?
A personal code for a solo artist. A hair and makeup team that works weddings together can share one group code and split by agreed percentages.