Wedding Basket Essentials: What To Pack

what to put in a wedding basket

Wedding baskets are a thoughtful gesture and a great way to celebrate the newlyweds. They can be given as bridal shower gifts, wedding shower gifts, or as welcome baskets for guests, especially those travelling from afar. When creating a wedding basket, it's important to consider the couple's interests and choose items that are practical, unique, and memorable. From spa-themed baskets to baking kits, the options are endless. Whether you decide to shop premade baskets or get creative with a DIY approach, a well-curated wedding basket is sure to impress and make the recipients feel special.

Characteristics Values
Theme Baking, spa, BBQ, picnic, pasta, wine or champagne, etc.
Container Basket, box, bag, baby tub, backpack, helmet, etc.
Items Bakeware, cookie cutters, piping supplies, nonstick silicone mat, cookie/cake/muffin mixes, bath caddy, bubble bath, lotion, monogrammed washcloths, etc.
Personalization Monogrammed items, custom graphics, couple's wedding date, etc.
Practicality Lip balm, sunscreen, water, snacks, maps, bug spray, deodorant, etc.

shunbridal

Practical items for the location: lip balm, sunscreen, water, snacks, etc

If you're having an outdoor wedding, especially during the hot season, it's a good idea to include practical items in your welcome basket. These can include lip balm with SPF, sunscreen, a large sun hat, and bug spray. You can also add bottled water and snacks to keep your guests hydrated and energized throughout the celebration. Some people may also appreciate having a handkerchief to wipe away any perspiration.

If your wedding is taking place in a location with a lot of nature, such as a National Park, you might want to include a map in the basket, so guests can explore the area safely and find their way back to the venue.

To keep costs down, you can buy items in bulk or opt for travel-sized products. You can also choose to provide a buffet-style setup where guests can select items they like and build their own baskets or bags. This way, they are more likely to end up with things they will use and appreciate.

It's important to consider the basket or container itself. Choose something sturdy and made from easily cleanable materials like stainless steel or plastic, especially if you're providing baskets for a portable toilet setup. You can also get creative and tie the basket's design into your wedding's decorative theme.

Remember, the key is to keep it simple and practical. You don't need to fill the baskets with fancy toiletries or expensive items. Supermarket own-brand or budget shop options are perfectly acceptable, and your guests will appreciate the thoughtful gesture.

shunbridal

Gifts for the couple: monogrammed items, candles, mugs, etc

If you're looking for gifts for the happy couple that they can use in their new life together, monogrammed items are a great choice. For couples who love to entertain, a personalised cheese board crafted from durable hardwood or marble is a thoughtful gift. It can be customised with the couple's initials or last name, and some boards even come with removable condiment dipping bowls. Another option is a set of monogrammed wine and cocktail accessories, including decorative ice buckets, stemware, cocktail glasses, coasters, and bar sets, perfect for celebrating life's special moments.

Candles are another popular choice for wedding gifts, with many companies offering engagement and wedding-themed candles. These can be personalised to match the couple's style and scent preferences, creating a cosy and romantic atmosphere in their new home.

For a more traditional gift, you can't go wrong with mugs. Mr and Mrs mugs are a classic choice, and many retailers offer customisation options to add a personal touch. These mugs can be a sweet reminder of their special day and a functional item for their morning coffee or tea.

These gift ideas offer a range of options to celebrate the couple's unique style and preferences, whether they're entertainers, romantics, or traditionalists.

shunbridal

DIY-themed: custom t-shirts, signs, home decor, etc

Wedding baskets can be used for a variety of purposes, from bathroom baskets and wedding favours to DIY-themed gifts. Here are some ideas for DIY-themed wedding basket gifts with a focus on custom t-shirts, signs, and home decor:

Custom T-shirts

Custom t-shirts can be a fun and unique gift for the happy couple. Consider designing t-shirts with their new shared last name, wedding date, or a cute graphic. If you're feeling creative, you can even suggest a theme and provide step-by-step instructions for the couple to design their own t-shirts. This adds a personal touch and can be a fun activity for them to do together.

Signs

Custom signs can be a wonderful addition to the couple's home. Consider creating a hand-painted sign with their names, a meaningful quote, or a welcoming message for their entryway. You can also make a sign with their wedding date and a special message to commemorate their big day. Another idea is to create a standing sign with a playful message or decorative signage to add to their home decor.

Home Decor

There are numerous DIY home decor items that can be included in a wedding basket. Here are some ideas:

  • Hand-stamped linens: Purchase plain napkins, tea towels, or pillowcases and use fabric stamps to add personalised designs. Incorporate motifs that hold special meaning for the couple or align with their aesthetic preferences.
  • Personalised planters: Decorate plain pots with vibrant colours, patterns, or the couple's initials. Fill them with easy-to-care-for plants or herbs, symbolising the growth of their relationship.
  • Hand-painted champagne glasses: Buy plain glassware and use enamel paint to add a unique touch. You can incorporate elements from their wedding theme or design glasses that reflect their personalities.

Other DIY Ideas

  • Personalised aprons: Create custom aprons with graphics, their wedding date, or their names. This is especially fitting if the couple loves to cook.
  • Custom recipe book: Compile the couple's favourite recipes and create a personalised cookbook. You can include decorative borders, personal notes, and even DIY thank-you notes. This adds a sentimental touch and will inspire memorable meals.
  • Time capsule box: Curate a collection of items that represent the couple's current moment and their aspirations for the future. Include handwritten letters, small trinkets, and symbolic objects. Encourage the couple to open it on a significant anniversary.

shunbridal

Self-care-themed: bath products, lotions, monogrammed washcloths, etc

A wedding basket with a self-care theme centred around bath products, lotions, and monogrammed washcloths is a thoughtful and indulgent gift.

Bath Products

There are many bath products that can be included in the wedding basket to create a luxurious and relaxing experience. For example:

  • Bath oils and bath bombs can be chosen with relaxing scents to help the couple de-stress and unwind.
  • Rose petals can be included as a romantic touch and to add a sensory element to the bath.
  • Bubble baths with calming lavender scents are another option, especially if the recipient has sensitive skin.
  • Candles can also be added to create a soothing ambiance and enhance the sensory experience.

Lotions

Moisturizing lotions are an essential part of self-care, and there are many options to choose from:

  • Look for lotions with natural ingredients known for their moisturizing properties, such as shea butter, aloe vera, or coconut oil.
  • Consider adding a luxurious touch with scented lotions, such as lavender or chamomile, to promote relaxation and soothe the mind.

Monogrammed Washcloths

Monogrammed washcloths are a sophisticated and personalized addition to the wedding basket:

  • Choose soft and absorbent materials such as cotton or linen for a luxurious feel.
  • Consider adding a monogram of the couple's initials or their married name as a special touch.
  • You can also include a set of washcloths in their wedding basket, which can be used for years to come and will remind them of your thoughtful gift.

This self-care-themed wedding basket will provide the couple with an opportunity to relax and indulge in some much-needed downtime, making it a unique and memorable gift.

Wedding Drapes: How Many Meters to Buy?

You may want to see also

shunbridal

Activity-themed: board games, movies, polaroids, etc

Activity-themed wedding baskets are a great way to encourage the couple to spend quality time together and foster a shared interest in hobbies and experiences. Here are some ideas to create a thoughtful and engaging activity-themed wedding basket:

Movie Night Basket

Create a cozy movie night experience with a curated selection of their favourite DVDs or a streaming service gift card. Include gourmet popcorn, assorted snacks, and a soft blanket for snuggling. You can also add personalized movie tickets or a list of classic films for a romantic movie night in. This idea is perfect for couples who love cinema and creates a wonderful opportunity for them to build cherished memories together.

Date Night Subscription Box

Craft a series of date night experiences with a subscription box filled with themed activities. Create personalized vouchers for nights such as a homemade pizza evening, a stargazing picnic, or a DIY spa night. Decorate the box with love notes and instructions for each date, ensuring the couple enjoys regular moments of connection and shared enjoyment. This idea can be tailored to the couple's interests and provides a unique way to promote quality time together.

Exercise Basket

Encourage the couple to stay active and healthy together with a stylish exercise basket. Include matching workout gear, water bottles, and personalized fitness routines. This thoughtful gift supports their well-being and strengthens their bond by fostering a shared commitment to a healthy lifestyle. You can also suggest various fun and exciting fitness activities they can do together, such as hiking, dancing, or yoga.

Games and Puzzles

Include a selection of board games or card games that the couple can enjoy together. Look for games that encourage interaction, laughter, and friendly competition. You could also create a personalized puzzle with photos or memories of the couple, providing a unique keepsake that they can cherish and display. Games are a great way to bring people together and create lasting memories.

DIY Terrarium Garden

Bring the beauty of nature indoors with a DIY terrarium garden. Provide a glass container, a variety of small plants, decorative stones, and charming figurines. This eco-chic wedding idea adds a touch of greenery to the couple's home while symbolizing growth and harmony. You can also include care instructions and tips for plant maintenance, ensuring the couple has a lasting and thriving indoor garden.

When creating an activity-themed wedding basket, consider the couple's interests, hobbies, and shared experiences. Personalize the basket to make it unique and memorable, and don't be afraid to get creative with your choices.

Frequently asked questions

A thoughtful idea is to create a wedding gift basket based on the couple's interests. For instance, if they love baking, you could fill a basket with bakeware, cookie cutters, piping supplies, and mixes so they can start baking right away. If the couple enjoys spa days, you could put together a basket with bubble bath, lotion, monogrammed washcloths, and candles. Other ideas include a BBQ or picnic basket, a pasta-themed basket, or a basket with personalised items such as aprons or mugs.

Welcome baskets are a great way to thank guests for travelling to your wedding. Practical items are always a good idea, such as sunscreen, lip balm, a sun hat, bug spray, bottled water, and snacks. You could also include personalised items such as matchbooks, beer cozies, and folding fans, especially if your wedding will be during a hot time of year.

You can get creative with the vessel you use to present your wedding basket. For instance, you could use a wicker basket, a tote bag, or a wooden keepsake box. If you're giving a gift to a couple, you could place the items in a clear gift bag inside a large bowl.

To make your wedding basket extra special, you could include personalised items such as custom mugs, a pullover sweatshirt with the new last name and wedding date, or a family recipe printed on a keepsake towel. You could also add items related to the wedding, such as polaroids from the day or a board game or movie for the couple to enjoy together.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment