Party favors at weddings add a personal touch and give your guests something to remember your special day by. But it is another added expense, and it's difficult finding something really unique and interesting. With a little bit of creativity - and home-made effort - you can give your wedding guests something they'll be talking about of a long time!
Foodie Favors
If you're a food-lover, and everyone knows it, giving a food-based favor is a great way to add that personal touch. Are you a whizz with Indian cooking? Make up your own special spice mixes by bulk-buying spices from a specialist store - which is much cheaper than buying tiny jars - and include a small recipe card. Pop the mix in a resealable plastic bag and seal in a gift box for that surprise element. You could do similar things with Chinese, Thai or Mexican spices.
Poetry Favors
Again, play to your strengths if you have a way with words. Just how well do you know your guests? Enough to write a funny, heartfelt or clever four-line poem about them and what it means to have them there on your special day? Get some small pieces of good-quality paper, pen your poetry and roll up into a miniature scroll, sealing with a piece of ribbon - or even a wax seal, if you're feeling adventurous. Of course, you could write one poem for the whole lot, but it's not quite so much fun.
Seaside Favors
If you live by the sea, pick up some free party favors by scouring the beach for beautiful shells. Give them a quick clean and present them as they are, or personalize them a little by painting some intricate patterns or inscribing the date. Alternatively, present them in small boxes with a small selection of pebbles and glass stones.
Flower Favors
Fresh flowers won't last forever, but pressed flowers can make a beautiful and individual gift. You can learn how to press flowers yourself easily and make them into intricate gifts. After pressing, carefully stitch or glue the flower onto a small square of handmade paper and use a calligraphy pen or small paintbrush to sign with the date and your names.
Sweet Favors
Everybody loves sweets, and creating a mini sweet selection for your guests will send them right back to their childhood days. Buy a large selection of pick 'n' mix, lots of clear wrap and ribbon and make mini-bunches of sweets. Cheap, fun and something everyone will love.
Whichever wedding favor you choose, your guests are sure to love their unique gift - and you've saved a bit more money for the honeymoon!
Aimee Steen - Aimee has been a published writer since 2008. She's a newly trained journalist with a thirst for knowledge and a passion for ...
