| Favors
Contrary to popular belief, it is not a
necessity that you provide favors for your guests.
There seem to be two schools of thought:
(1) Those who feel that a piece of shaped plastic filled
with something is the ultimate in elegance.
(2) Those who feel that they must have nicer favors
than anyone else, regardless of cost.
There is a very sensible middle ground. There is absolutely
no point in handing out something that will simply be discarded,
nor does it make sense to take out a second mortgage to
afford Waterford crystal. Favors should be something small
but useful or tasty. It’s even nicer if the bride is creative
and makes something herself.
Think of two guests who are as direct opposites as possible.
Then try to come up with something that would be pleasing
to them both.
Examples of good favors are: A small box containing two
to four excellent quality chocolate truffles or homemade
candies; a unique votive glass or handmade container for
a candle; a long-stemmed rose for each lady present; a small
unique picture frame that can be used as a placecard and
then be filled with a picture of the bride and groom at
a later date; an original poem thanking guests for sharing
your day, done in your own handwriting or calligraphy on
special paper; tiny plants; or a special little ornament,
if your wedding is around a particular holiday. A quality
gift shop will have lots of other ideas. Give them an idea
of your budget and the number of favors required and they
can be very helpful.
Beware of using scented candles or potpourri as these may
have a lovely scent until you have lots of them in a room,
where they might be overpowering and can even ruin the meal
for your guests.
Favors, like placecards, should be placed on the tables
before the guests arrive. They should not be piled on a
table at the entrance to the room, nor should they be put
out for people to take as they leave. Guests should not
have to carry these things around with them or make a trip
to their table to deposit them before they have refreshments.
Favors are usually not wrapped but should be presented attractively
and blend in with the overall look of the room and the table
setting. A more informal looking favor should be used at
a less formal wedding.
Favors may be assembled by the bride and her attendants
or family or may be professionally assembled. Of course,
you must consider the cost of professional assembly as part
of your budget, if you choose to go that route.
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