Simply put, wedding favors are a small gift provided to each guest that shows gratitude for joining in the celebration of the bride and groom. Depending on the couple, some wedding favors are long-term gifts or souvenirs while others are edible favors. Regardless of the type of wedding favor chosen, the key is to find something that is unique, but also fits your personal style. Although wedding favors add to the expense of a wedding, your guests will be very appreciative of this show of kindness and thoughtfulness.

Many times, a bride and groom will choose one type of wedding favor for each guest, then choose a more substantial type of wedding favor for family, close friends, or members of the wedding party. With literally hundreds of options, choosing the right type of wedding favor can be somewhat challenging. Therefore, we have provided you with some recommendations on what to consider.

If you are on a tight budget but still want to offer guests a wedding favor, you could purchase small, tin pails, filling each with almonds and then tie the favor off with a ribbon that coordinates with the colors of the wedding, or perhaps wildflower seeds, again tied off with a beautiful ribbon. On the other hand, if your budget is more flexible, then miniature candles, personalized corkscrews, or small picture frames that also double as place card holders will do the trick.

Typically, you want to choose wedding favors that complement the overall theme of the wedding. For instance, if you were having a tropical or beachside wedding, then nautical themed coasters would be appropriate. If your wedding is more formal and elegant, then something a little higher priced such as glass gel candles with personalized tags that include the bride and groom's name and the wedding date would make wonderful mementos.

With so many possibilities, we wanted to provide you with a list of other considerations. Just remember, the wedding is yours so you can choose whatever type of favor you want. Be creative, have fun, and consider the guests.

Scented Votive Candles

Silver Letter Openers

Leather & Chrome Key Chains

Chrome Luggage Tags

Scented Soaps or Bath Salts

Miniature Potted Plants

Bags of Potpourri

Glass Wine Charms

Monogrammed Ice Cream Scoops

Etched Glass Mugs or Glasses

Mini Guest Photo Albums

Another idea is to host a party with the bridal party so each person can be involved with making homemade favors. In addition to offering your guests something handmade and from the heart, you have the opportunity to spend time with the women who will be standing up with you during the wedding ceremony - a win/win situation.

Once you have purchased or made your wedding favors, they would be taken to the reception hall and placed at each plate. Keep in mind that for scented favors such as soaps and candles, we recommend you package the items carefully so they do not interfere with the fragrance of food. If necessary, you could set wedding favors on a table for guests to pick up, or hand them out personally.

In conclusion, you have many options when it comes to wedding favors. Decide what works best for you and your style. Show your guests how much you appreciate them and they will always remember your wedding fondly.