Sorry, I posted this yesterday but the knot ate it before I could get an answer.
My wait staff are being paid $27/hr and bartenders are being paid $33/hr (before taxes). Because the venue I chose required outside catering we have to hire the staff from a catering company. Yes, I have triple checked, and this is what is going into their pockets. I have an entirely separate operational surcharge for set up, equipment, etc.
I've worked in catering in NYC before and that is similar to what I've been paid. I don't remember being tipped unless it was being palmed some cash for doing something extra for a guest.
I know it is generally customary to tip waitstaff, but as they're being paid well above minimum wage, can I make an exception in my case?