5 Luxurious Valentine's Day Experiences in New York City

New York City offers an array of opulent experiences for affluent residents seeking to celebrate Valentine's Day in style. From exclusive dining to indulgent spa treatments, here are five exceptional ways to make Valentine's Day 2025 in NYC truly unforgettable.

1. Indulge in Exquisite Dining at New York's Newest Fine Dining Establishments

Experience the culinary delights of the city's latest upscale restaurants:

• Kancil: Located on the Upper West Side, Kancil offers Malaysian-inspired dishes crafted by renowned chef Simpson Wong. The family-style menu features specialties like Pulut Panggang and Sarawak Laksa, providing a unique and intimate dining experience.

• Oncheon: Situated on Fifth Avenue, Oncheon presents innovative Korean cuisine with standout dishes such as Bulgogi Gujeolpan and Sukiyaki shabu shabu. Complement your meal with unique cocktails like the GAT fashioned for a memorable evening.

• Le Jardin: Nestled in the Lower East Side, Le Jardin offers a taste of French elegance with classics like escargots and steak au poivre, accompanied by a curated wine list. The romantic ambiance makes it an ideal choice for Valentine's Day.

Tips for Securing Reservations:

• Book early to ensure availability, as these venues are in high demand.

• Utilize concierge services or reservation platforms to secure optimal seating arrangements.

2. Experience Ultimate Relaxation with Exclusive Spa Packages

Pamper yourselves with luxurious spa treatments designed for couples:

• Baccarat Hotel's Spa de La Mer: The "Blissful Amour" package includes a couples massage followed by a private poolside cabana experience, complete with champagne and chocolate-covered fruit. This indulgent offering ensures a serene and romantic retreat.

• The Peninsula Spa: Known for its holistic approach, The Peninsula Spa offers Valentine's Day specials that include aromatherapy massages and access to private relaxation lounges, providing a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Booking Recommendations:

• Schedule treatments well in advance to secure preferred times.

• Inquire about customizable packages to tailor the experience to your preferences.

3. Embark on a Romantic Sunset Cruise Along the Hudson River

Savor breathtaking views of Manhattan's skyline aboard a luxury yacht:

• Classic Harbor Line: Offers intimate cruises featuring gourmet dining, live jazz music, and panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.

• Bateaux New York: Provides an elegant glass-enclosed vessel experience, allowing for unobstructed views of the cityscape while enjoying a chef-curated menu and live entertainment.

Booking Tips:

• Review package inclusions carefully to ensure they meet your expectations.

• Consider add-ons like private tables or premium champagne selections for an enhanced experience.

4. Discover a Hidden Gem: Private Art Tours & After-Hours Museum Experiences

Immerse yourselves in the city's rich cultural offerings with exclusive access:

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Arrange a private, after-hours tour to explore world-class collections without the usual crowds, providing an intimate and personalized experience.

• MoMA's VIP Tours: Experience modern art masterpieces with a dedicated guide, offering insights into the artworks and the opportunity to appreciate them in a serene setting.

Enhancing the Experience:

• Pair the art tour with a bespoke dining experience, such as a champagne toast at The Met’s Balcony Lounge or a post-tour meal at The Modern.

• Opt for a guided tour by an art historian for a truly immersive cultural evening.

5. Attend a World-Class Performance at Lincoln Center

Enjoy an evening of culture and sophistication:

• New York City Ballet: Experience a captivating performance by one of the world's leading ballet companies, offering special Valentine's Day shows that promise to enchant.

• The Metropolitan Opera: Indulge in an operatic masterpiece, with productions that combine stellar performances with breathtaking set designs.

Enhancing the Experience:

• Book premium seats or private boxes for an intimate setting.

• Consider pre-show dining at upscale restaurants within Lincoln Center, such as The Grand Tier Restaurant, to complete the evening.

Conclusion

Planning ahead is essential to secure these exclusive experiences for Valentine's Day 2025 in NYC. The city offers unparalleled options for an unforgettable celebration. Explore these suggestions to create lasting memories with your loved one.

2024 NYC Holiday Tipping Guide: How Much Should I Tip Building Staff?

The Holiday Season has officially kicked off. With Black Friday and Thanksgiving over, holiday decorations are going up across town. With the arrival of the Holiday Season comes the question on the mind of many - “How Much Should I Tip?”

Building staff in Residential New York City buildings have been essential to all residents throughout the evolving pandemic. Building Staff have been responsible for increased cleaning protocols, receiving and managing an exponential increase in deliveries, and checking in on vacant apartments for residents that have escaped to second homes.

We’ve adjusted our annual tipping guide to account for the continued inflation being experienced in 2024. Giving additional this year will be appreciated by workers bearing the brunt of increased prices. If you are considering giving more this year to your valued Building Staff and are concerned they will expect this amount in future years, consider stating in your note with the tip how grateful you are for all they’ve done during this challenging year to set expectations. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. Additionally, owning versus renting in a building can play a big factor as well.

Of course, if you live in a building with a part-time doorman, virtual doorman, or no staff at all, the below levels could be adjusted downward.

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

Many buildings have organized drop off locations for your tips.

Tipping Guidelines

Super: $195-$245

Doorman/Concierge: $170-$220

Package Room: $95-$115 per individual* 

Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary

Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary

Garage Attendant: $95-$145

Personal Trainer: $145

Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary

Hairdresser: $100-$140

*It important to remember all the people fielding the large increase in orders you are placing and the sheer volume of orders they are now receiving, just for you alone. We are all ordering more online than ever before from clothes to groceries and meals. From Uber Eats to Amazon and every shopping destination in-between, there is no denying that we all place significantly more online orders than prior to the pandemic. We recommend tipping Package Room staff more than previous years. In most buildings it will be the package room employees, however, Doormen/Concierge are likely fielding these requests after hours.

When: Most building staff will prefer to receive their tips in early December so they can plan their own holiday spending accordingly. Tips account for a large part of building staff’s anticipated income at this time of year.

2023 NYC Holiday Tipping Guide: How Much Should I Tip Building Staff?

The Holiday Season has officially kicked off. With Black Friday and Thanksgiving over, holiday decorations are going up across town. With the arrival of the Holiday Season comes the question on the mind of many - “How Much Should I Tip?”

Building staff in Residential New York City buildings have been essential to all residents throughout the evolving pandemic. Building Staff have been responsible for increased cleaning protocols, receiving and managing an exponential increase in deliveries, and checking in on vacant apartments for residents that have escaped to second homes.

We’ve adjusted our annual tipping guide to account for the continued inflation being experienced in 2023. Giving additional this year will be appreciated by workers bearing the brunt of increased prices. If you are considering giving more this year to your valued Building Staff and are concerned they will expect this amount in future years, consider stating in your note with the tip how grateful you are for all they’ve done during this challenging year to set expectations. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. Additionally, owning versus renting in a building can play a big factor as well.

Of course, if you live in a building with a part-time doorman, virtual doorman, or no staff at all, the below levels could be adjusted downward.

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

Many buildings have organized drop off locations for your tips.

---

Tipping Guidelines

---

Super: $185-$235
Doorman/Concierge: $160-$210
Package Room: $85-$110 per individual*
Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary
Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary
Garage Attendant: $85-$135
Personal Trainer: $135
Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary
Hairdresser: $90-$130

*It important to remember all the people fielding the large increase in orders you are placing and the sheer volume of orders they are now receiving, just for you alone. We are all ordering more online than ever before from clothes to groceries and meals. From Uber Eats to Amazon and every shopping destination in-between, there is no denying that we all place significantly more online orders than prior to the pandemic. We recommend tipping Package Room staff more than previous years. In most buildings it will be the package room employees, however, Doormen/Concierge are likely fielding these requests after hours.

When: Most building staff will prefer to receive their tips in early December so they can plan their own holiday spending accordingly. Tips account for a large part of building staff’s anticipated income at this time of year.

2022 Holiday Tipping Guide

The Holiday Season has officially kicked off. With Black Friday and Thanksgiving over, holiday decorations are going up across town. With the arrival of the Holiday Season comes the question on the mind of many - “How Much Should I Tip?”

Building staff in Residential New York City buildings have been essential to all residents throughout the evolving pandemic. Building Staff have been responsible for increased cleaning protocols, receiving and managing an exponential increase in deliveries, and checking in on vacant apartments for residents that have escaped to second homes.

We’ve adjusted our annual tipping guide to account for the inflation being experienced in 2022. Giving additional this year will be appreciated by workers bearing the brunt of increased prices. If you are considering giving more this year to your valued Building Staff and are concerned they will expect this amount in future years, consider stating in your note with the tip how grateful you are for all they’ve done during this challenging year to set expectations. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. Additionally, owning versus renting in a building can play a big factor as well.

Of course, if you live in a building with a part-time doorman, virtual doorman, or no staff at all, the below levels could be adjusted downward.

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

Many buildings have organized drop off locations for your tips so you can safely give to your Building Staff rather than direct contact due to public health guidelines.

---

Tipping Guidelines

---

Super: $175-$225
Doorman/Concierge: $150-$200
Package Room: $75-$100 per individual*
Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary
Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary
Garage Attendant: $75-$125
Personal Trainer: $125
Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary
Hairdresser: $80-$120

*In the post-pandemic world, it is important to remember all the people fielding the large increase in orders you are placing and the sheer volume of orders they are now receiving, just for you alone. From Uber Eats to Amazon and every shopping destination in-between, there is no denying that we all place significantly more online orders than prior to the pandemic. We recommend tipping Package Room staff more than previous years. In most buildings it will be the package room employees, however, Doormen/Concierge are likely fielding these requests after hours.

When: Most building staff will prefer to receive their tips in early December so they can plan their own holiday spending accordingly. Tips account for a large part of building staff’s anticipated income at this time of year.

This guide was presented in 2018 and has been re-shared to include updated information, most recently from 2021

5 Holiday Scented Candles You Need for Your Home

Fragrance is one of our favorite and easiest ways to transform the feeling of a space. The power of scent transports us to another world and connects us with memories.

Whether you are looking for the smell of a freshly cut Christmas Tree or a crackling fire, these candles will add an instant touch of the Holidays to your home.

Flocon Candle Limited Edition

Each year Diptyque released a limited-edition candle for the season, and this year it is Flocon. The flacon, or snowflake, candle reveals notes of white musk mixed with honeyed accents of mimosa and winter bloom.

Available at Bluemercury

Jo Malone Glowing Embers Candle

Evoke the aura of a cozy den or library with a crackling fire, fresh log just tossed on, with this hand-poured candle from Jo Malone. Glowing Embers has very strong notes of smoke (in a good way) and woods.

Available at Bluemercury

NEST New York Holiday & Birchwood Pine Scented Candle

Perhaps the most fitting and synonymous with Holiday candles is the Birchwood Pine scent from nest. Fill your home with the aromatic scent of a freshly cut tree. This special Holliday set includes both Holiday and Birchwood scents.

Available at Nordstrom

Cire Trudon Christmas Gloria Candle

Enjoy not only a luxe seasonal fragrance, but also a beautiful blown glass vessel from what is rumored to be Marie Antoinette’s favorite candle company. Christmas Gloria from Cire Trudon is a woody-heavy scent with notes of spice throughout.

Available at Saks

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Pain D'Épices Candle

This candle will evoke all the childhood memories of building a gingerbread house filled with sweet delights. Pain d’epices has notes of orange, honey, cinnamon, and anise.

Available at Saks Fifth Avenue

Shop these candles and other Holiday fragrance picks for your home:

2021 Holiday Tipping Guide

The Holiday Season has officially kicked off. With Black Friday and Thanksgiving over, holiday decorations are going up across town. With the arrival of the Holiday Season comes the question on the mind of many - “How Much Should I Tip?”

While some traditions will be put on hold, other traditions synonymous with the Holiday Season will continue, one of which is Holiday Tipping. 

One could argue that Tipping is even more important this year than ever before - it has been a challenging year for all, and for those that are fortunate and have the ability to tip those that have helped throughout the Pandemic, this is the year to do so.

Building staff in Residential New York City buildings have been essential to all residents through the COVID-19 pandemic. Building Staff have been responsible for increased cleaning protocols, receiving and managing an exponential increase in deliveries, and checking in on vacant apartments for residents that have escaped to second homes.

We’ve adjusted our annual tipping guide to account for 2020 - some of the individuals that are key in a typical year such as your Manicurist may not have played a role in 2020 because of the Pandemic. Additionally, if you are considering giving more this year to your valued Building Staff and are concerned they will expect this amount in future years, consider stating in your note with the tip how grateful you are for all they’ve done during this challenging year to set expectations. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. Additionally, owning versus renting in a building can play a big factor as well.

Of course, if you live in a building with a part-time doorman, virtual doorman, or no staff at all, the below levels could be adjusted downward.

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

Many buildings have organized drop off locations for your tips so you can safely give to your Building Staff rather than direct contact due to public health guidelines.

---

TIPPING GUIDELINES

---

Super: $150-$200
Doorman/Concierge: $100-$150
Package Room: $50-$75 per individual*
Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary
Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary
Garage Attendant: $50-$100
Personal Trainer: $100*
Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary
Hairdresser: $75-100*

*In the post-pandemic world, it is important to remember all the people fielding the large increase in orders you are placing and the sheer volume of orders they are now receiving, just for you alone. From Uber Eats to Amazon and every shopping destination in-between, there is no denying that we all place significantly more online orders than prior to the pandemic. We recommend tipping Package Room staff more than previous years. In most buildings it will be the package room employees, however, Doormen/Concierge are likely fielding these requests after hours.

Additionally, if someone such as a Trainer has moved to a Virtual Model and you continued to use their service, we recommend continuing to tip these individuals.

When: Most building staff will prefer to receive their tips in early December so they can plan their own holiday spending accordingly. Tips account for a large part of building staff’s anticipated income at this time of year.

This guide was presented in 2018 and has been re-shared to include updated information

2020 Holiday Tipping Guide

The Holiday Season has officially kicked off. With Black Friday and Thanksgiving over, holiday decorations are going up across town. With the arrival of the Holiday Season comes the question on the mind of many - “How Much Should I Tip?”

While some traditions will be put on hold, other traditions synonymous with the Holiday Season will continue, one of which is Holiday Tipping. 

One could argue that Tipping is even more important this year than ever before - it has been a challenging year for all, and for those that are fortunate and have the ability to tip those that have helped throughout the Pandemic, this is the year to do so.

Building staff in Residential New York City buildings have been essential to all residents through the COVID-19 pandemic. Building Staff have been responsible for increased cleaning protocols, receiving and managing an exponential increase in deliveries, and checking in on vacant apartments for residents that have escaped to second homes.

We’ve adjusted our annual tipping guide to account for 2020 - some of the individuals that are key in a typical year such as your Manicurist may not have played a role in 2020 because of the Pandemic. Additionally, if you are considering giving more this year to your valued Building Staff and are concerned they will expect this amount in future years, consider stating in your note with the tip how grateful you are for all they’ve done during this challenging year to set expectations. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. Additionally, owning versus renting in a building can play a big factor as well.

Of course, if you live in a building with a part-time doorman, virtual doorman, or no staff at all, the below levels could be adjusted downward.

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

Many buildings have organized drop off locations for your tips so you can safely give to your Building Staff rather than direct contact due to public health guidelines.

---

Tipping Guidelines

---

Super: $150-$200
Doorman/Concierge: $100-$150
Package Room: $50-$75 per individual*
Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary
Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary
Garage Attendant: $50-$100
Personal Trainer: $100*
Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary
Hairdresser: $75-100*

*In the era of Coronavirus, it is important to remember the people fielding all those orders you are placing and the sheer volume of orders they are now receiving, just for you alone. We recommend tipping Package Room staff more than previous years. In most buildings it will be the package room employees, however, Doormen/Concierge are likely fielding these requests after hours.

Additionally, if someone such as a Trainer has moved to a Virtual Model and you continued to use their service, we recommend continuing to tip these individuals.

When: Most building staff will prefer to receive their tips in early December so they can plan their own holiday spending accordingly. Tips account for a large part of building staff’s anticipated income at this time of year.

This guide was presented in 2018 and has been re-shared to include updated information

Things to Do in NYC During the Winter Holidays

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Visiting the Big Apple is an unforgettable experience whatever season you choose. As the winter holidays start approaching, everybody seems to be enchanted by the holiday spirit, beautiful decorations are everywhere, and, finally, people are completely indulged in the festive mood. If New York is your destination this winter, here are the things to do in NYC during the winter holidays. Remember that not seldom do tourists get the idea to call this mesmerizing city home after the visit, so you might want to get creative with savings for the first home purchase once this winter holiday season comes to its end. 

Ice skating at the Rockefeller Center

Whether you are a native or a tourist, ice skating at the Rockefeller Center is definitely one of the things to do in NYC during the winter holidays. It is a quintessential and family-friendly winter activity you can enjoy to the fullest regardless of your age. Visit the world-famous Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Square or try the delicious hot cocoa or coffee at some of the cafes overlooking the rink. And not only that! Explore the Center and warm up. Also, if you want a chance to admire the breathtaking NYC skyline, climb to the top of this magnificent building. The hard-to-control crowds of people prove the popularity and uniqueness of this place worth visiting.

Visit A Museum

Your options in NYC are countless, and you can definitely find something that suits your artistic taste and interests. What a great majority usually choose includes the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum, The 9/11 Memorial & Museum, The Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Madame Tussauds New York, and many more.  Have these things in mind if you are about to become a New Yorker and do thorough research before your visit this year. Then, once you finally arrive at your NYC address, you can pay frequent visits to these art hubs whenever you want.

Attend Winter Jazzfest

Jazzfest is an exceptional event for all fans of jazz music. In the past, it was a one-day event dedicated to the most prominent names in this field and only the most passionate and committed fans used to attend it. In time, the situation changed dramatically, and now it is one of the most visited and famous winter holiday events. This year, all the attendants will have a chance to enjoy Resident Artist Meshell Ndegeocello and over 100 other jazz performers for several days. If you want to include Jazzfest in your to-do list during the winter holidays this year, gather all the information and book the tickets well in advance.

Attend the Under the Radar Festival

One of the things to do in NYC during the winter holidays for those who desire to experience the NYC theatre culture this year is, by all means, the Under the Radar Festival. The event features troupes from all over the world which can provide you with premium-quality entertainment. You can enjoy numerous comedy shows and attend a Broadway-like cultural event but at a significantly lower price.

Be Brave and opt for Empire State Building Run-up

Those who are fit, love exercising and meeting new challenges on a regular basis can opt for the annual Empire State Building Run-up this winter. Sprinting up to the 86Th floor is a goal only a small number of people succeed in reaching, although the overall distance is only a quarter of a mile. On the other hand, if you are not keen on running, a visit to Empire State Building still deserves a place on the list of the things to do in NYC during the winter holidays because you can explore it at your own pace, admire its Art Deco interiors and rest your eyes on beautiful views from the exterior. 

Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a great attraction for New Yorkers and tourists alike

People never get bored with Radio City Christmas Spectacular since it is slightly different every year. Here you can see everything that will get you in the holiday spirit in no time – dancing animals, nutcrackers, presents, fascinating special effects, and many more. The Rockettes are definitely the greatest attraction people coming from all over the world are always excited to see. Finally, even a simple tour around Radio City Music Hall, where this spectacular takes place, is a genuinely joyous experience.

Schedule your visit to Macy’s Santaland

The story about Santa, his faithful helpers, and the North Pole is an inseparable part of the winter holidays every year. This is why you should head to Herald Square to meet Santa at Macy’s Santaland. The whole family will enjoy immensely during a train ride to the Christmas village. What children like the most is the chance to have a decent chat with Santa’s elves and himself personally. Being one of the most popular and family-friendly things to do in NYC during the winter holidays, a visit to this magical land requires booking well in advance. Otherwise, you risk severe disappointment once you arrive at the site and find out you cannot enter Santaland.

Go window shopping and admire Christmas window displays

Finally, a chance to spend the winter holidays in NYC is a great privilege a lot of people have been dreaming about. Simple window shopping or observing Christmas window displays all over the city can be interesting as well. Should you miss some inspiration to get into the holiday spirit, which we doubt greatly, you can visit some of the NYC winter holiday markets where you can buy some charming souvenirs and holiday-themed knick-knacks.

Enjoying the winter holidays in NYC is guaranteed due to the endless options at your disposal. While NYC has the reputation of one of the most expensive cities in the world, we assure you it is possible to enjoy it to the fullest and yet not harm your budget considerably. What you need is a New York City Explorer pass which provides you with admission to various events and places. Understandably, there are those events that are separately ticketed, but you can decide how much you can and want to spend on these. 

Vanessa Grey is an interior designer and a passionate traveler. She loves meeting new cultures, exploring their customs, and sharing her experiences with other people. Vanessa started writing articles about her travels two years ago, and she loves those about the holiday seasons the most.

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/pretty-girl-winter-red-2039176/

2019 Holiday Tipping Guide - How Much to Tip Building Staff and More

The Holiday Season has officially kicked off. With Black Friday and Thanksgiving over, holiday decorations are going up across town. With the arrival of the Holiday Season comes the question on the mind of many - “How Much Should I Tip?”

The holiday season is always a time to give back to those that had a positive impact on our lives over the past year. One question that always comes up, especially in New York City, is how much to tip the building staff and those that are intimately involved in day-to-day life? Tipping is a major part of the Holiday Season in New York, and is a way to show appreciation to your building staff. Thus, it is important to say that it is highly encouraged, but not required. As December rolls around, many begin to get anxiety about who to tip, how much to tip, and if he or she should even tip at all. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. Additionally, owning versus renting in a building can play a big factor as well.

Of course, if you live in a building with a part-time doorman, virtual doorman, or no staff at all, the below levels could be adjusted downward.

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

---

Tipping Guidelines

---

Super: $150-200
Doorman/Concierge: $100-150
Package Room: $25-50 per individual*
Nanny: 1 Week Salary
Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary
Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary
Driver: 1 Week Salary
Garage Attendant: $50-$100
Personal Trainer: $100
Chef: $300-500
Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary
Hairdresser: $50-75
Manicurist: $25

*In the era of online shopping with Amazon Prime Deliveries daily, Prime Now, Seamless, Uber Eats, etc. it is important to remember the people fielding all those orders you are placing. In most buildings it will be the package room employees, however, Doormen/Concierge are likely fielding these requests after hours.

Something to Consider: If you have been tipping throughout the year utilizing a "pay as you go" method, it is customary to tip on the lighter side during the holiday season.

When: Most building staff will prefer to receive their tips in early December so they can plan their own holiday spending accordingly. Tips account for a large part of building staff’s anticipated income at this time of year.

This guide was presented in 2018 and has been re-shared to include updated information

Tips to Create the Perfect Thanksgiving Tablescape

It is that time of year! The 2019 Holiday Season is officially here with Thanksgiving on Thursday. It is one of our favorite holiday – who doesn’t love to eat? If you are hosting, we have some tips for you to create the perfect tablescape for your Thanksgiving dinner. After all, a beautiful table is just as important as the Turkey and all the sides! 

Start with a Table Runner

Start with runner from which to build the rest of your design. Table runners come in a variety of colors and prints so they are a great way to incorporate design interest while also being functional. The table runner will help ground your centerpiece on the table, especially long ones, so it feels purposeful rather than random.

Use a Center Piece

Put extra thought into this piece of your Thanksgiving Tablescape as all eyes will be on it. Pick a center piece that’s fitting for the season – think fall hues that match the foliage outside, pumpkins, gourds, leaf garland, etc.

Pro Tip: Thanksgiving is all about gathering and conversation so make sure the center piece you select is not too big that is encroaches on guests’ ability to converse across the table.

Natural Elements & Candles

Fall tablescapes are the perfect time to incorporate natural elements as they are fitting for the season! This is when you can get creative and add in additional elements along the length of your table runner to give it a layered look.

Items such as branches, dried eucalyptus, pinecones, gourds, and pumpkins are perfect for a Thanksgiving table. We love placing little pumpkins around the length of the table because what is Thanksgiving without pumpkins?

Pro Tip: If you are adding greenery to your tablescape, use small elements of your selected greenery within each napkin ring to tie the whole look together

Candles are a must – place them along the length of the table at varying height to cast a warm glow over your Thanksgiving meal. Candlesticks are great for adding height to your tablescape while small votives are perfect for mixing in with the natural elements throughout the length of your table.

Place Setting

What better time to go all-out and put in the effort of a full place setting than Thanksgiving? Take advantage of the food-centric holiday to use your best China and create a layered table setting for each guest.

Start with a placemat at each setting, and build out with a charger plate, entrée plate, appetizer plate, and napkin and napkin ring to create a layered look.

Pro Tip: Thanksgiving is the perfect time to use real cloth napkins. Often times, you will be able to find a patter or color that ties directly back to the table runner with which you started.

If you are hosting a large group, make name tags so guests know where they are sitting when they arrive to the table. You can also leverage natural elements to create a name tag such as tying it to a gourd or mini pumpkin.