As far as wedding favors in general go, I can't really decide if I like them or I hate them. I mean, a lot of the time, they seem to be useless little trinkets that either don't get taken home, or get thrown away immediately after. Knowing how much money goes into these little favors for 200 to 300 people, I just HATE the thought of wasting that money, when it could have been spent on something else. On the other hand, favors are a great way to say "Thank you" to the guests who helped you celebrate your big day (and brought you presents!). A simple gesture can go a long way. So, what's a girl to do?
I think they key is finding a favor that you KNOW your guests are going to love/use. If it's something that can be enjoyed during the reception, or can be enjoyed long after the wedding, then you've got yourself a winner.
Here's a few favor ideas that I think pass the "favor test." With these, you know you won't be wasting your money on something your guests will find useless!
1. Homemade coffee or tea sachets – Your guests can brew these up after a long night of dancing and partying. They're cute, inexpensive, and with a saying like "Love is brewing," how can you go wrong?
2. Fun Sunglasses – This may be a little bit "out there" for some people, but just think about how much fun your guests will have wearing and taking pictures in these all night. Just one picture of Grandma in them will make it worth it.
3. Mini Champagne Bottles – This may not be appropriate for younger guests, but the adults will sure appreciate it. They can drink it that night, or take it home and save it for a later occasion. Either way, you know they're guaranteed a good, bubbly time.
4. Olive Oil – These favors would be absolutely perfect at a vineyard wedding, or really any wedding for that matter.
5. Teacups – Who doesn't love a teacup? I can guarantee even your male guests would take it home. And, if you pick up some random, mismatched teacups at vintage stores, you'll have an adorable, fun display for a great price!
6. Caramel Apples – I actually considered doing these for my wedding, since I'm getting married in the fall. They're a cute and semi-healthy :) alternative to the other sweets at your wedding.
7. Preserves/Jam – Yum. Everyone loves homemade preserves. Make some, bottle it up in mason jars and print out your own labels. It'd be a fun project that your guests will love.
8. Plants – This idea is one of my favorites, because your guests will probably get the most use out of it. Whether it's an herb plant, an evergreen, a succulent, etc., they can take it home, plant it and enjoy it for years to come. It's like your love will keep growing and growing (cheesy?)!
9. Honey – How adorable is a jar of honey and a honeycomb? Love this for a backyard, summer wedding!
10. Blankets – Depending on when your wedding is, sometimes the nights can turn a little chilly. And if your wedding is outside, chances are the girls are going to need something to keep them warm so they don't have to dance for hours on end just to fight the cold.
11. Vanilla – If you've ever had homemade vanilla, you know how delicious it can be! And when bottled up, corked and decorated, it looks too cute to use.
12. Soap – Yay, soap! What a great way to give your smelly friends a (not so subtle) hint :)
