Holiday Tipping Do's And Dont's

RED BANK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- 'Tis the season to give thanks to those who have made an impact on our lives.

Many want to show their gratitude to service workers that help them all year long but never know how much to give.

CBS2's Vanessa Murdock took a trip to New Jersey to see how much some folks in the suburbs are giving this holiday season.

Ocean Township resident Judy Bugni tips her hair stylist to ensure he knows just how much his hard work is appreciated.

"I'm always happy when I leave and he's very pleasant," she said.

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Similar gestures will be repeated time and time again over the next few weeks.

"They're out there working real hard and you want them to feel appreciated," said Fair Haven resident Dwayne Reevey.

That is -- of course -- unless they've been naughty.

"If they haven't been nice," said one woman, "they need to brush up on it."

Executive Director of the Protocol School of New Jersey Maria Joyce says anyone who helps sustain your lifestyle deserves a little extra this time of year.

"Holiday tipping is about recognizing all those VIPs in our world," she said.

She emphasizes that tipping doesn't necessarily have to mean money. She says the holidays should be considered an opportunity "to extend kindness and appreciation" by way of homemade cookies or, of course, cold hard cash.

If you choose to go with cash, the following is a helpful list of guidelines;

-- One week's pay for your housekeeper, nanny, or home health aid

-- One day's pay for your babysitter, cleaning team, or dog walker

-- One visit's cost for your hair stylist, nail tech, or massage therapist

-- $10-$50 for your local sanitation crew or newspaper delivery person

For the mailman, cash is typically viewed as unacceptable. Rather, small gifts should be given.

When considering what to get for your children's teacher, consider partnering with other parents for a more meaningful gift or a more generous gift card.

As always, it's better to give something small and thoughtful than nothing at all.