Rethinking Wedding Favors: A Modern Take on a Classic Tradition

Recently, we shared a TikTok in our “Wedding Etiquette pt. 15” series, diving into the traditional practice of wedding guest favors. This sparked an engaging conversation about the relevance of these tokens in today’s weddings, and we couldn’t help but express our evolving views on this age-old custom. This had us Rethinking Wedding Favors, offering A Modern Take on a Classic Tradition.

The tradition of giving wedding favors is steeped in history, tracing back to the French aristocracy and upper classes. The term “wedding favor” originates from the French word bonbonnière, which literally means “box of bonbons.” These bonbonnières were luxurious small gift boxes filled with sweets or other treats, bestowed upon guests as a gesture of gratitude and to wish them good luck.

While this tradition carries a certain charm, we believe it’s time to modernize and personalize the concept of wedding favors. The days of generic chocolates, mints, and trinkets are behind us. Instead, we are advocating for favors that enhance the wedding experience, reflect the couple’s personality, and offer genuine value to guests. Here are some of our favorite contemporary favor ideas:

1. Calligraphy Keepsakes

Introduce a touch of elegance and personalization with a live calligraphy artist at your reception. They can create bespoke items for guests throughout the evening, such as luggage tags, themed cups, or key chains. These keepsakes not only align with your wedding theme but also provide a unique, memorable experience for your guests.

 

2. Personalized Bottles

For weddings at vineyards, in Italy, or in Sonoma, consider gifting personalized bottles of wine or olive oil. Elevate this favor by having a sommelier on-site to educate guests about the bottle they’re receiving. This not only adds an interactive element but also deepens the appreciation of the gift.

3. Late Night Bites

If your celebration extends into the late hours, offer a “late night bite” option. Personalize containers or tickets and surprise your guests with a delicious treat they can enjoy immediately. This thoughtful gesture will be a welcome delight as the night progresses.

 

4. A Flower for the Night

Channel the romance of classic movies with a single, beautiful flower or a small bouquet for each guest. This simple yet elegant gesture allows guests to enjoy a touch of natural beauty throughout the evening and take a piece of the celebration home with them.

When selecting wedding favors, we like to follow a few guiding principles:

1. Enhance the Experience: Does the favor add to the overall wedding experience?
2. Personalization: Is the favor personalized for the guest?
3. Practicality: Will guests actually want or use this item?
4. Convenience: Is it easy for guests to use on-site or take home (considering travel, hotels, etc.)?

In reimagining wedding favors, we encourage couples to think beyond tradition and opt for items that are meaningful, memorable, and truly enhance their guests’ experience. Whether it’s through personalized calligraphy, a taste of fine wine, a late-night snack, or a romantic flower, the right favor can leave a lasting impression and a heartfelt thank you.