Articles, Black and Brown-Owned Businesses, Local Businesses, Woman-Owned Businesses

full tip jar

To tip or not to tip a massage therapist

April Heath

08/11/2024

Image Credit: Photo 106467712 © Oleg Dudko | Dreamstime.com

At checkout time, I’ve been asked whether or not a tip is expected. I’m sure asking the question was just as awkward as being asked. Let’s cover a few different scenarios, since people get massages in different venues.

A sole proprietor massage therapist who has a fixed location has overhead. The revenue received for services is split with the business, so tipping is really nice to get.

A sole proprietor mobile massage therapist has less overhead. Tipping is purely discretionary, and if they’re a savvy business person, the tip is built into their price.

An agency that sends massage therapists to your door takes a percentage of the revenue. Tipping is customary.

A spa takes a big chunk of the revenue to cover the pay of management and support staff. A percentage of the service charge goes to the service provider as gratuity. Additional tip is discretionary, and makes the service provider extremely happy.

The owner of a spa that employs five or more service providers is entitled to a draw of the profits. If the owner is also a practitioner, it’s unusual to tip the owner.

On-site chair massage. Sometimes an event host pays the massage therapist a nominal rate. Some show up on their own dime to promote themselves. Tipping helps the therapist a lot.


Have you ever wondered whether or not to tip? Leave a comment.

Never miss an update! Sign up to receive my newsletter.

Easily book your appointment: www.joyfulrisingspa.com

Call/Text: 754.777.9437

Follow me on Instagram: (@aprilheathlmt) 

Are you a small business owner dedicated to natural health,wellness, stress relief, pain reduction, or alternative healing? If YES, would you like your business featured on my blog? Let’s connect. Email april@joyfulrisingspa.com

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Interested in collaborating or being featured in a blog post? Contact April today!

Yes, add me to your email list!

April typically sends one email a week. Unsubscribe anytime.

Seize the opportunity to enhance your well-being and stay connected with our vibrant local business community. Sign up for our emails to get valuable content delivered to your inbox:

  • Exclusive Promotions: Be the first to know about our special offers.
  • Educational Tips: Receive expert wellness and stress management advice.
  • Business Spotlight: Discover and support amazing small businesses.
Seize the opportunity to enhance your well-being and stay connected with our vibrant business community. Sign up for our emails to get exclusive content delivered to your inbox.

Unlock Wellness Tips, specials, and more!

Thank You!

You have been added to April’s email list and will start receiving her weekly updates soon! Please add april@joyfulrisingspa.com to your safe senders list.