The 2017 Rules of Wedding Favors
The 1980s called and they wants their wedding favors back. Okay, just kidding. But it is 2017! And wedding favors are so much more fun (and keep-able!) these days — as long as you do them right. Here’s an updated list of some things you should keep in mind.
1. Make it edible.
And no, we’re not talking about homemade chocolates made from chocolate melts you can find at the craft store or Jordan almonds wrapped in tulle. Think about things people will definitely want to use or eat — like jars of local honey, a bottle of homemade vanilla, mini bottles of Champagne, or your famous chocolate chip cookies. You can make the treats yourself or buy something ready-to-eat, but generally speaking edible is almost always best.
More on Homemade Wedding Favors
2. Don’t put your name on it!
While we’re being totally honest, chances are that no one wants a wine glass with your name and wedding date on it. Ditto for a Frisbee or a picture frame. If you’re going to gift a take-home item, consider keeping your wedding info off it (of course, you can put it on the packaging or on a removable sticker). This way, people can use it all the time and not just as a last resort when all of their other wine glasses are dirty.
3. Go for plants.
Tiny succulents are easy to care for and transport, plus they can be fairly inexpensive (did you know Amazon sells succulents?). Gift a little succulent in a cute pot, or a bulb wrapped in a pretty piece of cloth, or a packet of ready-to-plant seeds.
4. Keep travel in mind.
If you have a lot of guests who are traveling in for your wedding or if you’re throwing a destination wedding, keep in mind the fact that people might have limited room in their suitcases or carry-on bags. Anything that could explode, spill, or get thrown out at security may need to be avoided.
5. Include a cute tag.
While you want to avoid monograming your favors, it never hurts to personalize them a little. A tag is where you can put your initials, the date, or a cute little phrase or saying. For example, if you’re giving something sweet, you could put a little tag on the item saying something clever like, “So sweet of you to come!” See where we’re going with this? It’s like a mini thank you card for guests.
6. Don’t give random knick-knacks.
Let’s say you’re getting married somewhere known for its artisanal glassware. It may seem clever to gift all of your guests mini pieces of blown glass, but that might be lost on them. Will it end up collecting dust in your friend’s home? Will she even take it home with her or will she leave it behind? If it’s not something that can be used (or again, eaten), you might want to skip it.
7. Make sure you have enough for everyone.
There will always be someone who takes more than their fair share. (We’re looking at you, Uncle John!) You can’t plan based on a one-for-each-person mentality, especially if you’re you’re following the rules on this list. You’ll see guests walking out with multiples — we guarantee it.
8. Or skip the favors completely!
There is no rule that says you have to give out favors. (There is one that says you have to send out thank you cards, though!) If you really want a taco truck at the after party but your budget doesn’t allow for it and little favors of hot sauce, consider skipping the favors. No one will complain about getting to eat tacos!