Crafting The Perfect Wedding Favor: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding favours are small gifts given to guests as a token of appreciation for attending a wedding celebration. They are a way for the couple to express gratitude and leave guests with a memorable keepsake of the day. Wedding favours are not necessary, but they are a nice gesture and are now expected by most modern wedding guests. They can range from practical items to edible treats, DIY creations, or charitable donations. The key is to choose something that reflects the spirit and theme of the wedding.

Choosing the right wedding favour

Wedding favours are a great way to show appreciation for your wedding guests and can be a lasting reminder of the special day. Here are some tips for choosing the right wedding favour:

Consider your wedding theme

If you're having a fall wedding, incorporate warm colours and cosy vibes into your favours. You could give out small bags of spiced apple cider mix, personalised maple syrup bottles, or mini pumpkin pies. For a tropical wedding, embrace the laid-back island vibe with favours like mini bottles of sunscreen, beach towels, or flip-flop keychains. If your wedding has a rustic theme, opt for natural textures and earthy tones – mini mason jars with homemade jam, personalised wooden coasters, or small packets of wildflower seeds would be perfect.

Think about practicality

Choose favours that your guests will actually use. Practical options include personalised hand sanitiser bottles, lip balm tubes, or even hangover kits for the morning after! Not only will these be appreciated by your guests, but they'll also remind them of your special day.

Reflect your personality

Wedding favours are a chance to show off your personality and interests as a couple. If you love to travel, consider miniature globes or luggage tags. Or, if you're foodies, treat your guests to a jar of local honey or olive oil. The key is to choose something that stands out and leaves a lasting impression.

Make them multipurpose

To get the most out of your wedding favours, make them do double duty as decorations or name place cards. For example, use a small homemade candle as a name card holder, or attach a handwritten place card to a small chocolate coin. This will save you money and add a unique touch to your table settings.

Include a handwritten note

Adding a personal touch, such as a small handwritten note with your wedding favour, is a great way to make your guests feel special. Some guests may want to keep a memento from your wedding, and a notecard with the date of your wedding and a thank you message is an ideal choice.

History of wedding favours

Wedding favours, or small gifts given as a gesture of appreciation to guests from the bride and groom, have been a part of traditional wedding ceremonies for centuries.

The first wedding favours were known as 'bonbonnieres' and were given to guests as a symbol of good luck. These were small trinket boxes made of crystal, porcelain and/or precious stones. The contents of these boxes were generally sugar cubes or delicate confections, which were expensive and therefore a symbol of wealth and royalty. Sugar was also believed to have medicinal benefits.

As sugar became more affordable, bonbonnieres were replaced with almonds, which were commonly distributed to wedding guests to signify well wishes for the couple's new life together. In the 13th century, almonds coated with sugar, known as 'confetti', were introduced. This custom evolved from ancient Greece and was inspired by the tale of Demophon, the king of Athens whose wife died and reincarnated as an almond tree.

The tradition of providing gifts to guests was adopted by individuals of more modest means, who selected simple treats as gifts. Over time, the confetti evolved into sugared almonds, which are still a popular traditional wedding favour today. The combination of the almond and the candy is said to signify the bitter-sweet nature of marriage.

Today, wedding favours are commonplace in ceremonies worldwide and are often chosen to complement the theme or season of the event.

How to assemble a wedding favour box

Wedding favour boxes are a popular choice for brides and wedding planners. They are usually filled with tasty treats and are more likely to be taken home and enjoyed by guests. While they don't require much assembly, it can be a bit tricky if you have a large number of boxes to put together. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to assemble a basic wedding favour box:

Step 1: Getting Started

Take everything out of the packet and separate the box bottom, the top, and the ribbon (if included). Some favour boxes come flat in a kit with everything you need to assemble the box, while others may require you to purchase ribbons or embellishments separately.

Step 2: Folding the Favour Box Bottom

Take the pre-folded box bottom and gently squeeze the two ends to pop it into a box shape. Reinforce the fold lines before securing the tabs to ensure a flat and attractive box bottom.

Step 3: Securing the Box-Bottom Flaps

The box bottom typically has four tabs. First, fold down the tab with the groove or cutout, followed by the two identical opposing tabs. Then, hold the tabs in place and insert the tongue tab underneath the cutout, securing the box bottom.

Step 4: Tackling the Box Top

Squeeze the sides of the box top gently to form the box, just like you did with the bottom. Reinforce all the folds and then fold the two side tabs inward. Finally, fold the top tab over and insert the folded front tab between the side of the box and the inside tabs.

Step 5: Filling the Favour Box

Fill the box bottoms with your chosen treats, such as jelly beans, mints, or any bite-sized candies. Leave about a half-inch of space between the candy and the top of the box.

Step 6: Topping It Off

Gently slide the favour box top over the filled box bottom. You may need to manipulate the bottom of the box slightly to help the lid slide over it smoothly.

Step 7: Tying the Ribbon (if applicable)

If your favour box includes a ribbon, lay it on the table with the satin side facing down. Centre the favour box on the ribbon, bring it around the box, and tie a bow at the top. Ensure the satin side of the ribbon is visible.

Step 8: Impressing Your Guests

Place a favour box at each place setting on your reception tables. You can put it beside the plate, on the table above the plate, or even on the plate itself. Your guests will surely appreciate this thoughtful "thank you" gift!

How to distribute wedding favours

Assembling wedding favours involves creating or curating small gifts for wedding guests as a token of appreciation from the newlyweds. Here are some tips on how to distribute these wedding favours:

Place Settings

If you have assigned seating, you can place the favours at each guest's place setting. This ensures that every guest receives a favour and adds a personal touch to the table setting. This method is especially suitable if you have personalised favours or if the favours double as name cards or placeholders.

Favour Table

Setting up a designated favour table is a convenient way to distribute favours, especially if you have a buffet-style dinner with no assigned seating. Place the table near the exit with a sign inviting guests to take a favour as they leave. This way, guests won't forget their favours, and you won't have to worry about distributing them individually. However, be mindful that some guests may take more than one favour, so it's a good idea to have a few extras on hand.

Hand Delivery

If you want to ensure that each guest receives only one favour, you can opt for hand delivery. This can be done by the wedding party, entertainers, or even the newlyweds themselves. This method adds a personal touch and allows you to interact with your guests, but it can also be time-consuming, especially for larger weddings.

Children's Favours

Consider providing special favours for children attending the wedding. These can be placed at their place settings or, if you have a separate children's table, grouped together at the table. You may also want to offer more sophisticated favours for older guests, such as the parents and grandparents.

Timing

The timing of the favour distribution can vary. You can choose to have the favours available when guests arrive, or you can distribute them at the end of the reception. If you have interactive favours, such as bubbles for your first dance, you'll want to ensure guests have them at the appropriate time.

Remember, the key to distributing wedding favours is to ensure that your guests feel appreciated. Choose a method that aligns with your wedding style and logistics, and don't be afraid to get creative!

Who should get a wedding favour?

Wedding favours are a small token of appreciation that couples give to their guests to thank them for being a part of their special day. While it's not a requirement, it's a thoughtful way to express gratitude and make your guests feel valued. Here's a guide on who should get a wedding favour:

Family Members

Family members are usually at the top of the list when it comes to receiving wedding favours. They have been a constant source of support and deserve a special thank you for their love and presence on your big day.

Close Friends

Your closest friends are like extended family, and they play a significant role in your life. Whether they are your childhood buddies or college roommates, they should definitely be included in your wedding favour list.

Bridal Party Members

Bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other members of your bridal party have likely invested time, effort, and money to ensure your wedding day goes smoothly. A wedding favour is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for their dedication and support.

Wedding Vendors

From photographers to caterers, your wedding vendors play an essential role in making your big day a success. Including them in the wedding favour list is a great way to express your gratitude and build long-lasting relationships.

Guests Who Attend the Ceremony

Anyone who takes the time to witness your marriage vows deserves a token of appreciation. Their presence during such a significant moment in your life warrants a special thank you, and a wedding favour is a perfect way to show your gratitude.

Guests Who Attend the Reception

Even if someone couldn't make it to the ceremony but attended the reception, they are still an important part of your celebration. Their presence adds joy and warmth to your special day, and it's only fitting to acknowledge their effort with a small gift.

Other Guests

Lastly, if there are any other guests who have made an effort to attend your wedding, it's a kind gesture to include them in the wedding favour list. Whether they are distant relatives, co-workers, or friends of friends, their presence contributes to the overall happiness and celebration of your wedding day.

Remember, these are just general guidelines, and ultimately, the decision on who receives a wedding favour depends on your budget, the size of your guest list, and the significance of each person to you. The goal is to make everyone feel appreciated and valued for being a part of your special day.

Frequently asked questions