Wedding Favors | Are They Worth It?

Tiffany Holmes Photography

One of the most common questions we get as wedding coordinators is, “Are wedding favors worth it?” And like many things, there isn’t always a clear answer. However, there are a few things you should consider when deciding whether or not to hand out wedding favors. Keep reading to see if they’re worth it!

Pros
1. Token of appreciation
One of the most common reasons people choose to provide wedding favors is to thank their guests for not only coming to the wedding, but also for supporting their relationship. Not only did they make room in their schedule to attend your wedding, but they also have been there for you throughout your relationship and are more than likely to be there for you in your marriage.
2. Memento of event
Favors are also a great way to provide your guests with something to remember your wedding by. Whenever they see or use the favor, they’ll hopefully be reminded of the fun they had celebrating you and your spouse.
3. Add to the experience
Weddings are nowadays about the experience. Whether your favors are take-home presents or gifts to use during the night, they are a great way to add to the overall experience for your guests.
4. Personalization
Over the years, personalized weddings have become more and more of the trend. They’re less about traditions and more about making it unique and special to each couple. Custom favors can add nice personal touches to your wedding.

ZoLu Photography

Cons
1. Cost money
One of the most obvious downsides of wedding favors is they are just another added expense. Even though favors themselves can only cost a few bucks each, if you have a larger guest count, the total adds up quickly. Weddings are already very expensive and many couples opt against providing favors to save some extra money.
2. They can be a waste
Unfortunately, too many times many people don’t take favors home with them (or don’t even see them). This means the couple often ends up taking a lot of the favors home with them where they’ll either be thrown out or kept in a junk drawer somewhere.
3. Extra Work
Additionally, favors are often just another thing to add to your to-do list. On top of creating a guest list and keeping track of RSVPs, coordinating with all your vendors, and picking out decor on top of many other tasks, favors are often a low priority.

Digital Reflections by Joan & KClayson Photography

Our Suggestions
So, after knowing the pros and cons, if you’re considering providing favors at your wedding, we have a few suggestions.
1. Something they’ll use during the wedding
If you don’t want your favors to go unused, opt for a gift your guests can use throughout the night. Some suggestions include customized cups for beer and program fans at the ceremony.
2. Go practical
Opt for something your guests would actually use after your wedding, such as homemade candles, olive oil bottles, a bar of soap, or a blanket.
3. Consider treats
A great route for favors is to provide treats or snacks. These favors are more likely to be taken (and eaten) by guests than other favors that are often left behind. Plus, treat stations can add to the overall experience as well. Some fun options include a candy bar, homemade jams or honey from a local farmers market, or a build your own smores station.
4. Part of an activity
Speaking of adding to the experience, incorporating your favors with an activity at your wedding is a good way to make sure your guests see your favors. For example, if you have a photo booth station, include a Polaroid camera where your guests can keep some of the photos they take.

If you’re looking to have favors, find more ideas on our blog!

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