Many brides are confused by wedding favors, they understand that they need to give them, but are not sure why! Wedding favors began way back in the 13th century with rich European aristocracy who would give small gifts of sugar cubes (a rare commodity in those days) in small decorative boxes to each of their wedding guests.

Favors are intended as a small token of thanks from the bride and groom to their guests to thank them for joining them on their wedding day. Traditionally they would be sugared almonds given in either threes or fives representing health, wealth, happiness, longevity and fertility.

An alternative to almonds where chocolates, which where either candy coated or wrapped in coloured foil. Whilst these are still popular with many brides today, wedding favors have become a million dollar industry and there has never been such a wide choice available.

The majority of wedding favors can be bought from online stores although there are plenty of options to be found on the high street if you know what to look for. Popular wedding favors include candles in either votive or tea light size, miniature photograph frames, which can double as place card holders and edible treats such as cookies, sachets of tea or coffee and personalised chocolate bars.

However, it is not just the wedding favor itself that brides need to consider. They also need to think creatively about how they will package and present their favors to their guests. Common packaging types range from small cube style boxes to voile or silk bags. Aluminum tins are growing in popularity along with pretty card boxes shaped like cones, purses or chests. There is also a growing range of themed or novelty boxes available such as palm trees, butterflies or fairytale carriages.

Aside from the boxes or packaging brides will also add ribbon, which can be personalised with the couple’s names and wedding date, decorative elements such as flowers, hearts and butterflies and a thank you tag.

Wedding favors are an important and traditional wedding custom and even if your wedding budget it very tight you should not be tempted to forgo them. There are favors available to suit any budget and with a little creative thinking you can create perfect wedding favors for very little.

When working out how much your wedding favors will cost you need to be realistic. Always include them in your initial wedding budget and work out your costing based on a per head figure rather than applying a lump sum. Do some research online to get an idea of the cost of favors, many are within the same price range, as is packaging and decorations. If you are having a very big wedding you may want to consider using a wholesaler where you can get generous discounts on bulk purchases. Even if you are not having a large wedding, many favor stores offer discounts for quantity purchases and many will offer free shipping on purchases over a set amount.

Your choice of wedding favor also needs to coordinate with your wedding style or theme and be presented in your wedding colours. They are often presented on each place setting and provide a nice finishing touch to your tables. Be creative with your favors, they are intended as a personal gift to your guests and one which should reflect a bit of your own personality and taste as well as the style of your wedding.