Favor 411

The custom of sending guests home after a celebratory occasion with a small gift can be traced back to ancient Rome. Centuries ago, European aristocrats, most notably those in England, France and Italy gave their guests bonbonnierre, which was a box made from porcelain, crystal, precious stones or metal. Inside would be delicacies made from sugar, which at the time, was a very expensive commodity. Therefore, only noble families practiced this custom. However, by the end of the 19th century, the idea had gained acceptance and popularity among all social classes, and even those of modest means would give guests simple treats as gifts. Weddings were considered a lucky occasion, and by passing bonbonniers or other treats to their wedding guests, the couple felt they were also bestowing their good luck upon their guests. In most cases, the gifts consisted of five pieces of a sugary treat, or almonds, which represented fertility, health, wealth, happiness and longevity. Odd numbers were always used, symbolizing the indivisibility of the marriage union.

Today, anything goes when it comes to selecting your wedding favor. Favors can be derived from your weddings theme, your cultural heritage, a favorite hobby, your profession, or an item that is specific to your hometown or to the place where your wedding is taking place. I've collected a list of favors that hopefully will inspire you, if not provide you with the answer to the question "What should we give as a favor?"

- Mini Cheese Grater: with tag attached reading 'No Grater Love'

- Garrett's Popcorn in mini tins: famously fabulous popcorn from Chicago is now offering their popcorn in mini tins, perfect favor size!

- Beverage Koozie: personalized with 'To have and to hold, and to keep your drink cold!'

- Guitar Picks: personalized with your names, i.e. 'Jack picked Jill'

- Car Air Freshener: personalize with 'Riding on the Freeway of Love'

- Lottery Ticket: package in a glassine envelope with personalized sticker reading "Lucky in Love" (great for weddings on 07/07/07!)

- Flower bulb: with tag attached reading "Love Grows"

- Rulers: personalized with "Love Rules" (great for teachers!)

- Slinky: can personalize with your names and wedding date!

- Mini Sewing Kit: customize with "Sew in Love"

- Lip Balm: customize with "Sealed with a Kiss"

- Poker chip keychain: personalize with your wedding colors, date, and your pictures!

- Drink Coasters: customize with "Eat, Drink and be Married!"

- Charitable Donation: make a donation in the names of your guests to a charity that is close to your heart or meaningful to family.

- Custom Label Wine or Champagne: we are lucky enough to have several award winning wineries in our area—most will custom label for you!

- Frisbee: personalize with 'Love is in the Air'

- Flip Flop or Adirondack Chair Picture Frame: perfect for a beach wedding!

- Potted herbs: with recipe card attached incorporating herb. Great for cooks!

- Mini Snow-Globe: personalize with a photo of you two. Perfect for a winter wedding.

- Colored Glass "Kiss": looks like the chocolate treat, used as a paperweight!