Wedding favors are a chance for the bride and groom to make a personal statement as well as thank their guests for helping them celebrate. Unfortunately, most people can’t remember wedding favors they have received in the past. They are frequently left on the table, thrown in the bottom of the car, or discarded at home. Before spending a sizeable chunk of the budget on favors, consider the following tips and ideas for choosing something memorable for your guests.
Dos and Don’ts
- Don’t spend a lot to have items engraved or imprinted, especially if they are meant for everyday use. Who wants a frame or wine glass with someone else’s wedding date imprinted on it?
- Do attach a small card with a note of thanks.
- Don’t select trinkets such as wedding clappers, candles shaped like cakes or churches, etc. Although they may seem cute at the time, they won’t last past the wedding night.
- Do consider items with a practical use such as Christmas ornaments and beverage coasters. If tastefully done, these favors will serve as a long-time reminder of the couple. They don’t need the couple’s name on them to become sentimental favorites.
- Don’t give live animals. Fish have gone in and out of popularity as wedding favors and centerpieces. As clever as it may seem, not all guests are looking for a new pet and many of these “favors” suffer the consequences.
Wedding Favor Faves
- Mix CDs with the couple’s favorite songs or music from the wedding. A note from the bride and groom and an explanation about the meaning of each song make this even more special.
- Candy. Chocolates, jelly beans, licorice and more! Whether imprinted with a monogram, displayed in wedding colors, or just boxed to perfection, guests will enjoy these treats.
- Food. Cookies, tea, honey, and spices are all popular favor items.
- Personalized beverages/snacks are fun as well. Beer and wine fans might brew their own and bottle them with their “private label.” Water bottles can be purchased with custom labels, as can soda. Jones soda supports custom labels and has some unique flavors. http://www.myjones.com/
- Items of geographical significance are a hit, especially for guests from out-of-town. Following the above Dos and Don’ts, select local treats such as chips, candy or condiments.
- Favors with ethnic or cultural flavor are a special treat. Consider some of the other suggestions and give them an ethnic flair. Make sure to include a note to explain the significance to guests.
- Donations to charity are a wonderful way to share the couple’s values with their guests, while saving money on favors that will be tossed. Avoid the temptation to combine charitable donations with trinkets as they may lessen the impact.
To Favor or Not?
If you decide your budget can handle some extra trinkets, think long and hard about the choices you make. The right favor is either a perfect keepsake from your wedding or a thoughtful thank you for your guests. A little extra thought will help you choose just the right thing for your special day.
