Are wedding favors still in? Well that depends on what the favor is.
Wedding favors are a fun way to show your guests appreciation for their attendance on your special day. Some are a bit unoriginal, others are Pinterest-worthy. When it comes to favors, many wedding guests find favors to be an obligatory part of a wedding. They are not looking for things that will clutter up their home or be placed unused in a drawer. There are, however, some that are still very much appreciated – those with thought and intention put into them.
If you are a gift giver and have every intention of lavishing your guests with favors that they will love, we have some useful gifts and also affordable wedding favor ideas that will not simply be left on the table at the end of the night!
1. Welcome Bags
A welcome bag is a great idea and a very personal touch for your guests, especially if you are having a destination wedding. If you have guests that are coming from a distance, and or staying overnight, this is also a very nice gesture.
Included are things essentials like water bottles with custom labels, ibuprofen, and mints, but also local and relevant gifts. If your wedding is on an island, think tote bags with coconut water, sunblock, aloe, a hand fan, beach towel, or a hat. Hotels will provide toiletry essentials, however who doesn’t love some pampering with luxe products? Consider offering destination wedding favors like a pretty basket with hand towels (your colors, of course!), soothing shower steamers, lotions and oils, lip balm, face masks, and artisanal soaps. These are very useful wedding favors that your guests will love and appreciate.
2. Personalized items
Personalized items are unique and fun! Trending now are personalized matchboxes, wildflower seed packets, and soaps, but let’s not forget amazing options like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate with your own custom label message, a deck of cards, puzzle, luggage tags, or even temporary tattoos! These can be personalized with your wedding theme, initials, or even customized for each guest for the ultimate personalized touch.
Another great way to have personal favors is to have a photo booth. Guests can take pictures all night and capture the memories of the good time had by all! This is an easy way to give your guests some extra fun and less stress on you making sure to have a gift for each individual attendee.
3. Succulents or mini potted plants
Succulents or mini potted plants are a unique and eco-friendly wedding favor idea that your guests will love. These plants are easy to care for and make for great decorations for any home or office. You can tie in your wedding colors in the pots, containers, ribbon, or tags. Be creative with your theme, for instance a rustic burlap container for a rustic country wedding or a clear container with small shells for a beach wedding. Also consider a packet of seeds they can plant and grow at home; a sweet way remember your day!
4. Customized candles
Customized candles are a great way to add a touch of elegance to your wedding favors. You can choose from a variety of scents, like one from your wedding bouquet or wedding month flower, and have them customized with the couple’s names and wedding date. Candles are a good idea for those who don’t want to break the wedding budget yet make a lasting impression! Not only are they a beautiful addition to any home, but they also create a relaxing and cozy atmosphere.
5. Local or artisanal treats
Shop local! If you want to showcase the best of your local area or hometown, local or artisanal food items are the perfect wedding favors! Popular choices are gourmet popcorn, artisanal cheeses, honey or maple syrup, and small-batch jams and jellies. What is your state or city known for? Show it off! Maybe some Philly soft pretzels when it’s a Philly thing! Edible wedding favors and treats are not only delicious but also support local businesses. Think of what your city or hometown is known for and wow everyone with a food item!
6. Miniature bottles of alcohol
For guests who love to indulge in their favorite libations, miniature bottles of alcohol make for fun and unique small keepsakes. You can choose from a variety of spirits and have them customized with your names and wedding date. If you are having a signature drink, you could offer mini bottles with the alcohol ingredients for them to make one at home (see DIY below!). For a modern affair or more intimate wedding, a bottle of wine (with a custom label of course!) with wine glasses would be a great option. A bottle of your favorite spirit paired with personalized shot glasses can be used long after the bottle is empty.
7. DIY kits
If you’re feeling crafty, consider putting together DIY kits as wedding favors. This could include things like a DIY cocktail kit (like mentioned above!), a make-your-own-s’mores kit, or even a DIY soap-making kit. A unique gift like this would give your guests a fun activity to enjoy after the wedding.
Wedding favors are a great way to provide your guests with a small token of appreciation for their attendance. Think it through if this is something you want to do, and if so, make sure to put thought into it so you don’t spend money on something that is left behind. Hopefully these ideas are a springboard for you to consider a gift that will leave your guests with an unforgettable memory of your big day! Be creative and your guests will love the thought you put into it.