If you’ve ever left a wedding with a little gift in your hand – maybe a jar of honey, a bag of sugared almonds, or a personalised trinket – you’ve already experienced a wedding favour, even if you didn’t know the name for it. Wedding favours (sometimes called guest gifts, keepsakes, or, in Italian tradition, bomboniere) are small tokens of appreciation from the couple to their guests. They’re a way of saying “thank you” for being part of such an important day, and their history actually stretches back centuries.
The tradition is believed to have originated in 16th-century Europe, where wealthy families would gift ornate boxes, known as bonbonnières, filled with sugar or sweets, which were often considered a luxury at the time. Over the years, the practice evolved, and sugared almonds became a symbol of health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and a long life. Today, wedding favours take countless creative forms, from edible treats to handmade keepsakes, but their purpose remains the same: to send guests home with a little piece of the celebration.
However, it’s becoming increasingly common to not give out any wedding favours at all. In fact, many couples are choosing to forego them and instead focus on giving guests a better experience by allocating the extra funds towards catering or entertainment. And it’s not just about managing a budget – the choice can stem from environmental concerns, or couples may choose to donate the money to a special cause instead. But, if you’re considering giving wedding favours to your guests, we’re here to help you choose the right gifts!
How to Choose the Right Wedding Favours
Picking the perfect favour is less about following trends and more about matching the gift to your wedding style, values, and budget. Couples should consider:
1. Budget
Even if you choose a budget-friendly gift, the cost per guest can add up quickly. Sometimes simpler, high-quality items make a bigger impact than over-the-top gestures.
2. Guest List Size
If you’re opting for a small wedding, you can choose a more personalised favour – something custom-made is always a lovely idea. However, if you’re having a large wedding, it may be easier and more affordable to prepare your favours in bulk… although this doesn’t mean they can’t carry just as much meaning!
3. Practicality & Sustainability
Nobody likes to accumulate things they don’t need, so before you order a bunch of wedding favours, ask yourself: Is this something my guests will use? When in doubt, it may be safer to opt for something edible – sweet treats are almost always well received, as per Italian tradition.
4. Theme & Venue
Match your wedding favours to your wedding theme. A rustic farmhouse wedding? Mini jars of local honey could be perfect. Tying the knot on the beach? A personalised fan or sunglasses might be the right fit.
5. Personal Story
The most memorable favours often tie back to the couple’s journey: a shared hobby, the city they met in, or a nod to their heritage. In the end, the “right” wedding favour is the one that feels like you as a couple. Whether it’s a plant that will bloom in your guests’ homes or a jar of your grandmother’s jam, it should carry a little piece of your personality with it.
Cool & Creative Wedding Favours to Try in 2025 & Beyond
1. Something Edible, with a Twist
Food-based favours are timeless, but how can you make them more personal? Choose a gift that reflects your relationship, wedding venue, or interests. For example, for fiery couples, a mini bottle of hot sauce could be a great option. If you’re planning a Mediterranean wedding, you could opt for infused olive oils, local herb blends, or small bottles of homemade liqueur. And of course, chocolates or candies paired with a special message or monogram are always a sweet success – no waste, all fun!
2. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly
Choosing a sustainable wedding favour is a great way to show you care. Guests and couples are increasingly mindful of environmental impact, so favours that can be planted, reused, or upcycled are fantastic. Consider mini potted succulents or herbs as an evergreen token of your love, or seed packets in custom envelopes for a fun little DIY project. Reusable tote bags or cups can also be a great choice if your budget allows.
3. Fun & Experience-Based
Favours don’t always have to be something guests take home – they can be part of the celebration itself. DIY cocktail kits handed out at the reception, photo booth prints, or Polaroid shots are great examples. Simply hire a booth or arrange for instant prints, and provide playful props to make the moment even more memorable.
Ready to start planning?
Wedding favours are a beautiful part of your celebration, but just like any other wedding tradition, they have evolved over time. With these tips, you can ensure that your guests love your wedding favours just as much as you do – a win-win!
Our team at MYWeddingPlanner is here to help you perfect all the details for your wedding day. Contact us to get started!
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