Perfect Planning: You Can Take It With You

The wedding circuit has seen a recent surge in people offering party favors to their guests. While not necessary by any means, favors do add that extra element that makes guests feel appreciated.

“I definitely think it’s picking up speed and everybody’s feeling like they need to do something for their guests — at least some kind of acknowledgement or thank you for coming, even if they don’t spend a lot of money on it,” said Randall Wright of Eventures in Fayetteville, which specializes in event planning and wedding decorating.

Just as the invitation gives guests a clue as to the formality and tone of your wedding, party favors can be one of the final elements that reiterate the feel of your big day.

Flowers and Chocolates

Formal and old-fashioned? Classic chocolate-covered almonds in organza bags or silver picture frames as place card holders still reign supreme. Relaxed and casual? Flower leis for a tropical reception will make a splash, while decorative paper fans or personalized sunscreen bottles are ideal for outdoor weddings.

CDs

As an inexpensive alternative, Eventures burned a CD of the bride and groom’s favorite love songs and put their picture on the cover.

“We did big silver punch bowls at the front door with the CDs, which were each tied with a little sheer ribbon, and the guests just took one as they left,” Wright said.

Remember: Presentation is everything, so be creative! Think brown paper sacks tied with raffia and adorned with daisies or a box of homemade goodies wrapped with leftover maps and tied with twine.

Making It Personal

Couples now more than ever are leaving their guests with more than a napkin with their names on it. Customized gifts such as personalized wine or sparkling cider bottles, beer bottles from a microbrewery labeled with the couple’s name and date of wedding, and mugs filled with gourmet coffee beans are taking center stage.

Personalized candles are always well-received, as guests can enjoy them long after the wedding and be reminded of the special event.

Dona Papadopoulos with Donatello in Little Rock said that iced cookies with the couple’s monogram have become popular. She also created the elaborate three-tiered personal wedding cakes pictured here but said she more often creates three-tiered cookies for a similar effect.

Related Articles