How to: Holiday tipping

You know what you're buying for mom, dad, your spouse and your siblings. You also know you want to give something to your hair stylist, your housekeeper and the guy who walks your dog. The problem is, you're not sure exactly what to give them. Should you give them money or those cookies you baked the other day?

Keep in mind that tipping is never obligatory. According to etiquette expert Loiuse Fox, tipping should always be based on merit. However if you do decide you want to tip, Fox suggests keeping these factors in mind:

-- How long have you used the services of the person?

-- The type of establishment: Is it upscale or more modest?

-- Do you tip throughout the year?

-- The type of relationship you have with the service provider. 

If you decide to give a cash tip, there are some accepted guidelines: 

-- For hairstylists, manicurists, babysitters, cleaning lady/housekeepers, etc., the recommended amount is the equivalent of up to the value of one visit.

-- For postal workers and newspaper carriers: gifts up to $20. However, always check to see if government workers can accept tips. Most government offices have a cap on the amount. 

However, the recession may affect holiday tipping. Fox says, "It affects people's ability to pay a generous tip and consequently affects the income of those in the hospitality industry who have had to adjust their spending and their tipping of course as well. I expect this holiday season to see tipping reserved for only those very special service providers in our life and to see people generally looking at other ways to show gratitude."

Fox says people should be appreciative. "Maybe give a nice card or a letter to their boss." If you still want to give a gift, she says, "Generally, avoid personal gifts like lingerie. It could be note paper,a candle or a CD that they like." But there are exceptions to that rule. "Be attentive," says Fox. "If they mention a perfume that they like, then that's fine to give, depending on your relationship. Always listen and spend some time thinking about the gift. It doesn't have to be expensive."