You're at a West Vancouver salon, your bill is $100, and you're working out the tip. It's a common scenario, and knowing what's appropriate helps you tip confidently. Here's a straightforward guide.
The Standard Answer: $18-20
For good service on a $100 salon bill, a tip of $18-20 (18-20%) is standard and appreciated. This is the same percentage range that applies to salon services at any price point—the math just becomes more obvious at round numbers.
The Math Made Simple
On a $100 service, the calculations are easy:
15% = $15 — Acceptable, but on the lower end. This communicates that the service was adequate but nothing special, or that there were minor issues.
18% = $18 — Standard good-service tip. Says "you did your job well."
20% = $20 — Generous standard and easy math. Shows genuine appreciation for good work.
25% = $25 — Exceptional service tip. Reserved for when your stylist went above and beyond.
When to Tip on the Higher End (20-25%)
Consider tipping more generously when your stylist squeezed you in at the last minute, fixed a mistake from another salon, spent extra time on consultation without rushing you, gave you valuable styling advice for home maintenance, remembered your preferences from previous visits, or made a particularly enjoyable experience.
When 15% Is Acceptable
A lower-end tip is reasonable when the service was adequate but unremarkable, you had to wait significantly past your appointment time, there was a minor issue that wasn't fully resolved, or the experience felt rushed or impersonal.
If there was a serious problem, consider speaking to the salon manager rather than just leaving a reduced tip. A low tip alone doesn't communicate what went wrong or give them a chance to fix it.
Cash or Card?
Both are perfectly acceptable. Cash goes directly to your stylist immediately, often without any processing fees. Card tips are processed through the salon's system—the stylist still receives them, usually in their next pay period.
If you have cash, many stylists appreciate it. But don't feel obligated to find an ATM—card tips are standard and expected in modern salons.
What About Multiple Services?
If your $100 bill includes multiple services (cut plus blowout, or partial highlights plus toner), you can tip on the total. There's no need to calculate separate tips for each service. If different stylists performed each service, you can split the tip proportionally—for example, $12 to the stylist who did the $70 service and $8 to the stylist who did the $30 service.
Tipping on Products
If you purchased products in addition to services, it's customary to tip on the service portion only. So if your total was $130 ($100 service + $30 product), you'd tip on the $100 service amount.
Building a Relationship Through Tipping
Consistent, fair tipping builds a relationship with your stylist. They'll remember you as someone who appreciates their work, and they may go the extra mile for you—squeezing you in when they're fully booked, spending extra time perfecting your style, or offering honest advice about what works for your hair.
The Bottom Line
On a $100 salon service in West Vancouver, tip $18-20 for good service. Round up to $20 for easy math and generous appreciation. Tip $25 if the service was exceptional. The most important thing is acknowledging the work that went into making you look great—your stylist will appreciate that you took the time to show your thanks.