I've only run across a few owners that nix'd the tip cup. They seemed to think that it made them look cheap, or didn't pay a fair wage ... but that's not the truth at all. The very nature of the gesture is an "extra" bonus, or "gift" for the special treatment of a customer. Owners really have nothing to say about us accepting gifts .... just about the actual vessel, and even then - It's not a defined area of aggreement in many cases.

As for what we're worth? I feel that I almost always charge according to merit. When I do decide to give a bargain rate ... it's because of some other loyalty. It's never selling myself short just to "get a gig" (whatever THAT means).

Tips are nice, but I don't count on 'em ever. They seem to pour in at their own pace though. Some days are diamonds .......