I am in the process of getting quotes from caterers. I have noticed down at the bottom of the estimates a couple of the caterers have listed the 18% gratuity and included it in the estimate. The past three caterers to send me quotes have a "service charge" listed at the bottom. this "service charge" happens to be between 18% and 20% of the estimate. I have asked those caterers if that is the gratuity and all three have said, "no" they do not add gratuity to their estimates.
Aside from telling me it is not gratuity, they will not give me a direct answer as to what this service charge is for. I am all for tipping above and beyond for good service, but I feel like they are trying to double dip for tips and i feel a bit put off by it. Does anyone have any experience with this or advise? For what is it worth all of the caterers I am talking with are well reviewed here and other wedding sites.