Full disclosure ahead of time: we’ve recently been on a bit of a research binge into things like organic produce, free-range ranching, natural building, and other hippie stuff.
So, this article is definitely going to reflect that, and you’re going to notice it.
However, that doesn’t mean the content will be any less helpful than our previous articles.
In fact, it might be even more so because we’re writing this whole thing about wedding favors for guests that not only show them how much you value them but also give them tangible value.
Right next to your guestbook, be sure to include one or two of these for all the lovely people who are there for you on your special day.
Show them you care. 😉
Be Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly
Do you have any idea how many toxic chemicals you are exposed to on a daily basis?
From your clothes and your food to the cleaning products used in your home and car, you are being bombarded with unnatural synthetic chemicals 24/7, 365.
Just in men, average sperm counts have plummeted by more than 50% in the last 40 years.
You can imagine what’s been going on with women’s hormones and reproductive systems during the same time.
At this rate, it’s not even unreasonable to fear the extinction of the human species in the next century or two solely due to prolonged exposure to the toxic chemicals that are in our… well, everything.
Even if you live in a cabin in a remote homestead in the woods like Ted Kazinsky, you can’t expect to entirely avoid exposure to the sorts of synthetic compounds and hormone disruptors that are causing so many to get sick and become infertile.
You need to be consciously acting to remove those chemicals from your life.
And you can give the gift of both awareness and wedding favors for guests that represent solutions instead of despair and resignation.
Such As?
Think of things you use every day, and find non-toxic (or at least less toxic) alternatives to them.
For example, if you live in a place that gets cold during winter, you can give the members of your bridal party or groomsmen wool undergarments to replace the polyester and nylon ones that most people have.
Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are made of petroleum, whereas wool is made of, well, wool.
Another great example is handmade artisanal soaps and candles made without toxic chemicals.
Just like your clothes and pretty much anything in the grocery store that has a nutrition label, your toiletries and cosmetics are loaded with all kinds of harmful substances and compounds.
And while you’re at it, you can give your male and female guests non-toxic shaving soaps and moisturizers, respectively.
Be Healthy
This aligns with being non-toxic and eco-friendly, but we want to put special emphasis here on actively promoting health rather than just not being poisonous.
We live in a country where most people are significantly unhealthy in some way or another, whether that’s the result of a poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, lack of sleep, smoking, or something else.
The majority of people in the US are currently living in a condition and with a lifestyle that will probably result in them having a shorter lifespan than their Baby Boomer parents/grandparents.
In the spirit of promoting health and more active lifestyles, consider gifting recipe books or recipe cards with only healthy recipes.
These would ideally be recipes that don’t involve any store-bought sauces and teach you how to make everything from scratch.
The simpler and less intimidating, the better.
Humans ate well for thousands of years before the invention of that radioactive-looking ketchup and other condiments we’re used to seeing everywhere.
Give Gifts With a Tactile Element To Them
In addition to that, why not give your wedding guests something they can physically use?
We’re talking here about things like ab rollers, pushup bars, clicker counters, stopwatches, workout trackers, and other tactile exercise aids.
Nobody will be able to claim personal offense if everyone is getting the same thing.
But even so, let’s be honest, everyone in America is aware of the situation at this point.
We’ve all seen the mobility scooters at Walmart, and virtually all of us have at least one relative who is currently being medicated and/or rendered immobile by an illness that is directly caused by an unhealthy diet.
Lastly, herb garden kits make fantastic wedding favors for guests.
They’re just small enough not to take up much space or be a hassle.
But they’re also green and alive.
They’re a constant reminder that there’s a big world out there, bursting with life, that’s just waiting for you to get out into it.
On top of that, it can be a way for someone to develop a passion for gardening and growing their own food, something they might have otherwise been too intimidated to ever try.
They’ll probably never become a pumpkin farmer, sheep herder, or technophobic homesteader, but anyone can grow some basil on their windowsill.
Happily (& Healthily) Ever After
With the way things have been for at least the past several decades, this part should probably be added to everyone’s wedding vows.
Just as you should strive to be each other’s source of support and nourishment, with a little effort and research, you can give wedding favors for guests that also extend that sentiment to them.
Instead of a flask or some other novelty item that will look cool for a day and then likely never be seen or thought about again, why not give them something they’ll use and look at every day that will make their lives noticeably better over a measurable period of time?
What better way to show that you care?
FAQ: Wedding Favors for Guests
What are the most popular wedding favors for guests?
Edible favors like cookies, chocolates, honey, or mini champagne bottles tend to be the most popular because they’re useful and easy to enjoy after the event.
How much should you spend on wedding favors?
Most couples budget two to six dollars per guest. The final cost depends on whether the favor is handmade, custom printed, or purchased in bulk.
Do guests expect wedding favors?
They’re appreciated but not required. Many couples skip traditional favors and put that budget toward experiences like a photo booth, late-night snacks, or a welcome bag for out-of-town guests.
What are good practical wedding favors?
Think candles, drink koozies, seed packets, luggage tags, mini soaps, or reusable tote bags. Anything guests can use again tends to be a hit.
Are edible wedding favors a good idea?
Yes. Edible favors have one of the highest “take rate” percentages because guests enjoy them right away. Popular choices include custom cookies, local jam, or personalized candy bags.
Should wedding favors be personalized?
Personalizing is optional. Adding your names, initials, or wedding date can be a nice touch, but simple and high-quality items work just as well without it.
When do you hand out wedding favors?
Most couples place them at each place setting or create a small favor display near the exit so guests can grab one at the end of the night.
