Tipping the owner/sole proprietor of a beauty business?

[Anonymous]

I have an appointment for a basic bikini wax. The estetician has her own "practice" - it is in a small office-type building and she only does facials and waxing. From reading reviews, it sounds like she used to work at a larger spa/salon and a few years ago opened her own place (not that it matters).

The etiquette I've historically heard is that you don't tip the owner. That seems odd to me if they are the one doing the service, and I don't see any reason NOT to tip her, but of course... tipping gets crazy and since this will probably be an appointment every 4 - 5 weeks, I don't want to overpay if it isn't expected. On the other hand, if it is the norm, I certainly wouldn't want to stiff her. It seems like the first time you start using a new beauty pro really sets the expectations for the future, so I want to be reasonable but also not spend more than I need to. (FWIW, her prices are in line with everyone else's prices in the area -- not higher. And if I went to a chain waxing type place, I certainly would tip the employee.)

I'm guessing the answer will be an overwhelming, "Yes, 20%," but just for fun -- do you tip the owner, especially if they are the only one in their spa/salon? How much?

[Anonymous]

No. The purpose of a tip at a larger place is to supplement their pay since they are only keeping a small fraction of what you are actually paying for the service. She is the owner so she sets the prices and she doesn't have to give up a chunk of her money to someone else. Tipping culture is ridiculous.

[Anonymous]

Yes, tip. Not tipping the owner is outdated advise. There have been a few recent threads if you want to search.

[Anonymous]

*advice!

[Anonymous]

I go to a sole proprietor hair stylist. I tip generally about 15%. My hairdresser appreciates tips (and has come to expect such). Yes, she sets prices which are already very reasonable, but as a sole owner, she also goes out of her way to help me (last minute appointments, free samples, special occasion help) and I treasure her so I tip.