Wedding Favors Guests Will Leave Behind

You don't want to waste your time and money!

Over the past few years, the idea of providing wedding favors for guests has drastically fallen out of fashion.

clear-box-filled-with-macarons-and-thank-you-card
Photo: Maloman Studios

Over the past few years, the idea of providing wedding favors for guests has drastically fallen out of fashion. Given that millennials are the within the average age range for marriage, this makes sense as it’s often reported that the generation prefers to spend money on experiences rather than tangible items. In lieu of favors, many couples instead offer attendees a late-night snack or even throw an after-party. 

wedding favors your guests will leave behind, wedding favors your guests hate

Photo by Abby Jiu Photography 

However, there are still some brides and grooms who decide to provide a going-away gift as people depart from their wedding. Whether it’s because your parents insist or you just want to stick to every tradition, you still likely want to make sure that if you do provide a favor, it’s something people will actually want. After all, one of the reasons they are a less popular detail now is because favors were often left behind. To ensure that doesn’t happen at your day, here is a list of types of favors you should avoid: 

- Items personalized for you. Any trinket, no matter how personal, that has your and your new spouse’s names (or initials) and wedding date is not something your guests will have any use for after the big day. 

- Anything difficult to transport. Unless you know for sure that every one of your invitees is local, anything that can’t be put in a carry-on bag should not be gifted – you can’t guarantee people will check a bag. Other items, such as a planted succulent, may normally be appreciated but might not survive a long journey. 

- Gifts that are really projects. For example, your grandmother’s cookie recipe complete with ingredients would mean your guests have to set aside time to bake in order to enjoy the favor. Simply provide already-made treats instead!

- Solo items that belong in a set. A wine glass might seem lovely, but many of your attendees will have curated dish and glassware in sets, and a single item can throw off the balance. 

- Poorly made products. While a cheap bottle opener or key ring might seem like the economic solution, something that might break right away is not likely to leave a good impression on your guests. You’d be better off forgoing favors altogether. 

For more ideas, find out what to include in your bridesmaid proposal boxes and how to prepare edible wedding favors.