12/01/2025
Table Talk — Part 7: Let’s Talk Money! ✨
Okay… this might feel like a weird topic to bring onto a massage page, but it’s one I get asked about all the time. I’ve had many clients reach out with two main questions:
1️⃣ What forms of payment do you take?
2️⃣ What’s the policy for tipping? Am I supposed to tip? And how much?
So let’s dive in!
💳 Forms of Payment
If you’ve read through my informed consent form from a previous post, you already know the basics. I accept cash, checks, and credit/debit cards — and I do not charge an extra fee to run your card (many places add around 3%). You’re also welcome to leave a tip on a card if you choose to.
A newer and increasingly common option is paying with HSA/FSA funds. Many of you have these through your workplace, but you can also open these accounts on your own. Just a heads up — please verify with your provider that massage therapy is covered, because not all plans include it. I’d hate for you to get stuck with a surprise denial.
💛 The Big Question: Tipping
You’ve probably seen the line in my informed consent form that says:
“Tipping is never expected, but always appreciated.”
But let’s be honest… that feels vague. So here’s the full picture and the nitty gritty:
I have clients who don’t tip at all. I have clients who tip 20%. Some tip more.
All of these are perfectly okay.
We all have different financial situations, families to care for, and bills to pay. And here’s my personal philosophy:
👉 If leaving a large tip prevents you from coming in as often as you need or want to, I would much rather you leave a small tip — or none at all.
Your wellness and consistency matter more to me than the tip line on a receipt.
🐝 A Quick Note on Industry Differences
Tipping culture in massage therapy varies widely depending on where the therapist works.
Massage therapists in spas often receive a lower hourly wage and then rely on tips to bring their income up. In that case, tipping more can be especially helpful and appreciated.
On the other hand, since I own Dwell Massage Studio, my situation is different. If I relied heavily on tipping to make my income sustainable, I would simply adjust my service prices, because that’s something I have control over.
That said — I genuinely appreciate every tip I receive. They mean a lot. But I also deeply appreciate every single one of you who walks through my door, trusts me, and allows me to be part of your wellness journey. That alone is an honor.
🗣️ Wrapping It Up
So that’s the heart behind the phrase,
“Tipping is never expected, but always appreciated.”
Money can feel like an awkward or touchy topic — but it doesn’t have to be. If you ever have questions or want to talk more about this, I’m always happy to chat. Just reach out: (608) 917-8375.
Thanks for coming to Table Talk Part 7 — and thank you, truly, for supporting Dwell.
