Couples are often faced with an endless to-do list when they’re planning their wedding, and picking out the perfect wedding favors can feel like just another box to tick. However, they’re one of those little details that leave a lasting impression. When done right, wedding favors are a sweet token of appreciation for your guests; done wrong, though, and they may end up forgotten at the table, or worse, in the trash.
To help you avoid the latter situation, here are the dos and don’ts of wedding favors. Avoid the common mistakes detailed here, and your guests will be raving about your thoughtful keepsakes long after the last dance:
Do Choose Favors That Reflect Your Personality
Your wedding is all about you and your partner, so why wouldn’t your favors have a personal touch? Choosing items that reflect your personality, relationship, or shared interests is a simple way to make your wedding favors stand out.
If you’re a couple that loves coffee, for example, consider distributing miniature bags of your favorite beans. Are you and your partner wine enthusiasts? Personalized bottle stoppers or mini bottles of wine are classy and fun wedding favors. The idea is to tie your chosen favor items to something meaningful, which will make guests appreciate the thought behind them.
However, don’t go overboard trying to impress. Simplicity often wins here. Overly complicated favors can be more stressful than they’re worth, especially if they involve a DIY project that eats into your precious time before the big day. Keep it personal but manageable.
Don’t Ignore Practicality
It’s always tempting to go for something cute or trendy when picking out wedding favors, but you should also ask yourself if your guests will actually use or appreciate it. Practical wedding favors tend to be the ones that most people will remember and enjoy. Some safe bets include reusable tote bags, coasters, or edible treats. Your guests are far more likely to take home a jar of honey or a pack of gourmet chocolates than, say, a small figurine with your wedding date engraved on it.
If there’s one thing you should take away from this piece, it’s to avoid items that feel like clutter. Think of it this way: if you wouldn’t want it in your house, your guests probably won’t either. Practicality is key to ensuring your favors don’t go to waste.
Do Choose the Right Packaging
Packaging might be one of those things that you feel tempted to overlook, but it really matters. The right packaging can take an already lovely favor and elevate it to something memorable. You want your wedding favors to feel like a present – a beautifully presented gift just feels that much more special!
Candy boxes are great for wedding favors because they’re visually appealing and incredibly versatile. Our candy boxes here at A Specialty Box come in various sizes, colors, and materials, making it easy to match them to your wedding theme. You can fill them with chocolates, gummies, or other sweet treats; they’ll keep everything tidy and make distribution simple.
Beyond candy boxes, there are plenty of other packaging options. Elegant mesh bags, small glass jars, and custom-printed paper wraps are all great choices. The key is to choose packaging that complements the favor inside and ties into your overall wedding aesthetic.
It’s also a good idea to think about functionality. Your guests should be able to easily carry their favors home without worrying about spills or damage. Secure packaging is a small detail that makes a big difference.
Don’t Forget to Consider Your Guest List
Your wedding favors should cater to your guest list. A favor that might be perfect for a small, intimate gathering could fall flat at a large, formal event. Homemade cookies or candles might work well for smaller weddings, where personalization feels intimate; if you’re hosting hundreds of guests, though, logistics might make something simpler, like a themed keychain or plantable seed packets, more practical.
It’s also important to consider your guests’ demographics. If you have lots of kids attending, think about including something fun for them, like coloring kits or candy bags. If most of your guests are adults, sophisticated options like mini bottles of champagne or personalized luggage tags might go over better. The goal is to make everyone feel included and appreciated.
Do Budget Wisely
Wedding favors can be a sneaky expense that adds up quickly, especially if you’re hosting a larger wedding. That’s why it’s important to decide on your budget early on and think about how much you’re willing to spend per guest. Once you’ve got that figured out, stick to it! Remember, it’s not about how much you spend but how thoughtful the gift is. Some of the best favors are affordable yet meaningful, like homemade jam or small succulents.
On the other hand, don’t feel obligated to splurge on extravagant items just to impress. Guests aren’t expecting luxury favors – they’re there to celebrate you and your love story. A little thoughtfulness goes a lot further than a hefty price tag.
Don’t Overthink It
Finally, here’s our pro tip: don’t let your wedding favors become a source of stress. They’re meant to be a small token of appreciation, not the centerpiece of your wedding. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to pick the “perfect” favor, but the truth of the matter is that most guests probably won’t remember what they took home a year later. What they will remember, though, is the joy of celebrating your special day with you.
If you find yourself overthinking and overwhelmed, take a moment to breathe and step back. Go with something simple, practical, and personal, and trust that your guests will appreciate the gesture. After all, it’s the thought that counts!
Final Thoughts
Wedding favors might feel like a small detail, but they’re a great way to show your guests that you appreciate their love and support. By focusing on thoughtful, practical, and personal gifts – and steering clear of the common pitfalls – we promise you’ll get it just right.