Edible Wedding Favors
It’s time to thank your guests. Why not feed them?
By Natalie Tsang
August 4, 2011
Instead of wasting money on silly wedding favors that your guests will never use, why not go the food route? First, make up a budget and decide how much you want to spend per guest. Second, be mindful of food allergies and other dietary restrictions. Third, how can you make it fit in your theme? Lastly, don’t give away anything you wouldn’t consider eating yourself.
Baked Goods
Whether homemade or store bought, cookies, brownies, and bars are delicious. Some come individually packaged, but you can save money by doing it yourself. If you’re planning the DIY route, look for recipes that freeze well. Remember that these babies go stale fast, so the time between arrival and consumption must be short. Do you have enough time to bag or box a hundred favors two days before your big day? If not, consider having a favors bar where guests can load up takeout boxes with sweet treats. It can even double as a desserts bar.
Beverage Service
Consider creating a package of your favorite teas or coffees. Ground coffee loses its flavor quickly so keep it airtight and leave the beans whole. Many companies offer customized labels on coffee and tea products, or you can make your own. If your menu has an Asian twist, stay in theme with an individual serving of loose Thai tea with a tiny container of condensed or evaporated milk. For an adults-only wedding, a hip flask is fitting for a rustic wedding or a 1920s inspired reception. During Prohibition, flappers kept tiny flasks in their garters, and you can find them online for a few dollars each. If you have a bigger budget and love wine, consider customized wine bottles.
Local Specialties
If you’re having a destination wedding or have a lot of out-of-town guests, give them a regional souvenir like olive oil, chocolate, nuts, fresh fruit, or maple syrup. However, make sure to check if your wedding favor is in danger of being seized by customs.
Some Assembly Required
Hot cocoa is perfect for autumn and winter weddings. Even if you can’t afford a can for every guest, you can still splurge by buying the good stuff but repackaging it into smaller portions. Mini marshmallows are a must. If your second love is the kitchen, your signature spice rub, mulling spice, or cake mix will be well appreciated. You can choose to include a recipe or keep your secret ingredients a mystery.
For more information on wedding favors, check out Fabulous Favors: Seven Tips for the Little Gifts.
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