It’s a common misconception that favours, gifts or bonbonniere (whatever you want to call them) are an essential factor in your wedding. No, no and no. Don’t waste money on them for the sake of having them.
If you do decide to have little gifts for your guests, consider something to really remind the guests of you OR are tied into an activity/theme of sorts to enjoy throughout the evening. To name a few; soft scarves tied to the backs of the chairs (winter wedding in the mountains with open fires outside… unique, beautiful and practical!), homemade goods, or food and booze are always winners (baking, mini spirits like Ouzo for a toast later or lollies, bags of popcorn or fairy floss). Also local produce if you are in a special country location or foodie hub. I knew a bride whos mother in law to be was an avid gardener, they bought bulk small glass teacups from IKEA and planted soft ferns months in advance. They adorned the table as the centrepieces with candles down the long tables and guests could take them home to replant or keep in their teacups. CUTE!
You can pimp your place card by making it more effective rather than more expensive, like wooden place cards with a single flower, sprig of greenery or herb, even tie a simple ribbon; personalised wine glasses (gift and practical! You don’t need to get them etched either, you can buy stemless wineglasses in bulk very inexpensively and order personalised stickers for the guest names which look so good!). Consider individual mini succulents from your local market, small bags of unique coffee or tea, if you’re arty maybe a small hand drawn picture or a painting. More effort? Yes. More effective? More yes.
And as for activities, combine your guest book with a photobooth and have everyone stick the 2nd copy of their pictures into a ring bound book and write their messages alongside. These are always a hit and you can easily do these yourself with a tripod, digital camera, and instant photo printer or polaroid camera. One of the most memorable gifts I have encountered at one of my weddings was mini tambourines with beautiful long boho style ribbons that were on everyone’s seats at the ceremony. They had these to conclude the ceremony in place of bubbles or confetti etc.
End of the day favours aren’t essentials, don’t spend money on crap you yourself would struggle to utilise.
