Ep 13. Fifteen Percent

In Modern Family season 1 episode 13, entitled "Fifteen Percent," the three families continue to navigate their daily lives with their unique quirks and situations. Cam and Mitchell are excited to receive news that their friend, Pepper, who is a party planner, has recommended them as outstanding candidates for the caterer position for the upcoming wedding of a gay couple in their neighborhood. This presents a great opportunity for them to showcase their culinary talents and earn the wedding contract, but the couple requires them to accept a 15% commission for their services. This set-up causes a rift between the couple as they both have different opinions on whether it is worth it.

Meanwhile, Jay is struggling with the idea of accepting a hug from his stepson, Manny. Despite wanting to connect with Manny, he finds it hard to navigate the awkwardness of physical intimacy, something Manny thrives on. Trying his best to find common ground, Jay opts to bond with Manny on his 13th birthday by giving him a gift that will, hopefully, help bridge that gap.

Gloria, feeling left out of the father-son moment, embarks on her own misadventure to make sure that her son's birthday is celebrated in a way that befits the occasion. Things don't go according to plan, but her intentions are admirable as she tries to make things right.

On the other hand, Claire and Phil help their daughter, Haley, after she receives a traffic violation for texting while driving. However, what started as a simple driving lesson quickly turns into a game of trying to outsmart each other in a test to see who among them is the better driver.

As always, "Fifteen Percent" showcases the dynamics of the three families as they find themselves in different situations, but ultimately, it portrays their love, their differences, and their unwavering support of one another.