Should we have to tip the catering staff when the wedding venue is owned by the caterer?

Our daughter is getting married at a venue owned by the catering company. We are planning on a buffet dinner, plus bar. The contract includes a 20% service charge, plus sales tax. The contract specifically states that the service charge is for "the processing, insurance, administrative fees, and other expenses. This does not include gratuity".

This seems excessive to us - paying a 20% service fee and still being expected to tip the staff, who work for the catering company. Is it?Should we have to tip the catering staff when the wedding venue is owned by the caterer?
It seems excessive, but the contract states that there is no tip included in the price.

I guess it's the same as eating in any restaurant. The wait staff work for the restaurant and you tip them, right?
I think it's excessive, but unfortunately it's very common now. Technically, they're charging you an additional 40%. That's 20% "service" charge (which I think is ridiculous, considering you're already paying for the food and venue anyway) plus expecting a 15-20% gratuity.

You don't go to a restaurant and expect to pay 20% in addition to the cost of your food/drinks PLUS tip, so I don't see why this company is getting away with it

If I were you, I'd see about negotiating a better rate and ask them why the "service charge" isn't included in the rental fee. Or, go elsewhere.Should we have to tip the catering staff when the wedding venue is owned by the caterer?
wow in the states the 20% includes the tip.... 12% goes to the team. i would check with the local better business bureau if there is something like that there.... that sounds REALLY shady. if that were there case in the US though the staff would be getting at least minimum wage though so i would not tip unless there was someone you saw really go out of their way. in the states there are two minimum wages - one for tipped employees and for non-tipped.
Service fees are normal (unfortunately for brides). Yes it seems excessive, but it is a part of many venues when charging for catering.



As far as tipping the staff, I would say yes as long as the catering budget is reasonable.
You still have to tip. If you think the charge is so excessive that you can't tip the wait staff, find another catering company. Don't penalize the wait staff for something beyond their control. They depend on tips to pay their rent.
Those are the terms and you signed the contract, you absolutely do need to tip them as it is not included.
no maybe like 10 20 is just too much.