Wedding souvenirs aren't required, but it is a nice gesture to give out tokens to thank your guests for sharing the special day with you. Here in the Philippines, people usually give out figurines, candles, or other decorative items, but if you want to stray from tradition, there are a lot of available alternatives--like tokens that allow you to do some good, too. Not only will your guests have something to remember your wedding by, but you're also spreading positive vibes. Below are some ideas for souvenirs that make a difference.
1. Be eco-friendly.
a. Reuse. Let wedding decor serve as favors.
Find ways to repurpose for your wedding decor. For example, place card holders--the kind where you simply slip the card on top--can be used as picture holders for your guests to take home. A basic napkin ring with your guest's name and your wedding date printed on it can also be a great favor.
b. Encourage guests to go green.
If you choose to be eco-friendly on your wedding, give out seedlings in small pots or sacks. You may even include a small printout of basic information and care instructions for the plant. To save on your wedding decor, these seedlings can be placed in baskets at the center of the table, and then given out later on.
2. Support an advocacy.
Your wedding souvenirs do not have to be tangible to be meaningful. Give back to society by making donations on your guests' behalf, and hand out cards informing them of the donation. Don't forget to include a short description of the charity you chose to support, so that your wedding guests know the charity's mission.
3. Help the local industry.
If you're having a destination wedding, local products can be memorable and even more useful souvenirs to give your guests. For example, if your wedding is in Batangas, give out local coffee beans. Through these souvenirs, you'll remind guests of the destination where you held the ceremony, plus you'll also help the locals sustain their livelihood.
To see suppliers for wedding favors, check out our listings here.
You might also want to check:
- Green Weddings
- 5 Eco-friendly Wedding Ideas
- How to Have an Eco-friendly Wedding
- Wedding Elements that Can Do Double Duty
- Non-floral Bouquets and Boutonnieres
- Vintage-Inspired Favors from Polka David
