Working the Prom
It’s prom season. For many teens, this is a right of passage especially when it comes to dining out. Many of the teens are venturing out on their own for the first time.
I served 4 teenagers who were heading to prom. Two teens were a couple while the other two were two single friends who were planning to have a great night out.
I served them their meal and took care of processing the payment. The young couple tipped well for teens (15%) The two single friends however….well…tipped like 80 cents on a $42 bill.
Needless to say, I was a little upset as my server family can attest to that night. But what I didn’t know was the back story. This is where it gets interesting.
As I’m cleaning the tables and licking my server wounds, the teens went to their parents who were in another part of the restaurant. The father asked about their experience with me and then asked about the tip percentage they gave me. When dad found out, he said, “That’s ALL you LEFT?!” He gave them money from his billfold and demanded that she give me the money as a 20% tip.
So thanks dad. I truly appreciate it. Thank you for standing up for me. Thank you for teaching your daughter about restaurant etiquette. I was almost in tears of joy which is rare for me in any setting, especially at work.
