1.  I dont usually tip indies.  The best indies build the tip and extras into their rates.  

2.  If I go to a "house," I always tip on top of the basic rate.  $20 minimum.  $50 if my knees are shaking (it happens).  

3.  Rules are always subject to exceptions, but #1 and #2 above have applied more than 90% of the time for me.

I will pretty much agree with everything Moment had to say.  We independent ladies establish our own rate, so most of us are comfortable just receiving that amount.  I will also add that I never regard a client as less than a gentleman, simply because he didn't tip me.  The lack of a tip has absolutely no influence on whether or not I'll see him again.  His consideration of me and my time, along with his desire to be a great BFE, is plenty of reason for me to look forward to seeing him again and again.  

On the other hand...just giving total honesty here...the thoughtfulness and generosity displayed by a gentleman who tips, can't help but leave an indelible impression on a lady.  And who knows what extra special attention you might receive in return, if you begin to see her regularly.  I guess it depends on the provider.  I'd say, if you find one you really click with, definitely tip her (don't forget your BFE game ) and see her repeatedly, and see how that works out for you.  But if you're one of those hobbyists who prefers lots of variety over deeper connections, then there is really no need to consider a tip to an indy.

I think it's not in a girls best interest to ask for a tip.  It's not required is my opinion.  I have never heard of a seasoned provider demanding a tip, perhaps your experiences are testing the water on that.  Tip statement on a webpage is new as I have never heard of that.  
Should you: It's personal... as if you feel your time was great then you should do what YOU feel YOU would like to do.

For me, a tip is showing an appreciation of a job well done.  I never ask for tips but as most providers I really appreciate when one is given.  More importantly, I just appreciate when  gent shows thought and kindness be it in a monetary form or floral form.

Thou this is a business, it is a highly personal one.  I can think of no other business in which a "sales person" (for lack of a better term) is expected to give of themsselves mentually, spiritually and physically. So the extra support is always a good way to reward a provider for being exceptional in her field.

XO
Melanie

I much prefer to bring a gift of some sort than to leave a tip. This works for either a short 1-2 hour session or for the more likely (for me at least) multi-hour or day excursion.

-- Modified on 4/25/2007 11:43:02 AM

The best tip is not always given on the first night.  Repeat visits are always the best form of appreciation, and the provider will make far more money with just 1 extra visit.

There are many things that you can do to show your appreciation to a provider.

A thoughtful gift, a nice bottle of wine or a nicedinner are some of the ways to show appreciation.

I've had providers that have hinted around about a tip and I have chosen not to see them again because that is a big turn off to me. A gentleman will usually let a lady know when he has had a really nice and enjoyable time and will show his appreciation.

Also, as I have gotten more experience I appreciate my really close friends more and more. I used to think you should take everyone a gift, but now feel that may have served to degrade the truly special experiences and friendships you have with some providers.

Bottom line is to always let the special ladies know you appreciate them in some way and be comfortable in the fact that it's the thought and not the money that counts.