From classic rock to bumpin' new pop songs, here's a curated list of crowd-pleasers.
Updated May 15, 202440 Trending Wedding Favor Ideas for Your Guests
Many of these can be personalized, too.
Photos: Etsy,Design: Natalie Romine
While giving out wedding favors isn't a requirement, it's a thoughtful way to thank your guests and provide them with a tangible memory of your celebration. Coming up with wedding favor ideas that fit the overall vibe of the occasion (along with your personality and budget) can be tricky, which is why we're here to offer some advice.
When shopping for wedding favors for guests, you'll need to figure out how much you want to spend. The average cost of favors and wedding party gifts combined is about $450, according to The Knot 2023 Real Weddings Study*, a survey of nearly 10,000 newlyweds who married in 2023. The study also found that 27% of couples hired vendors to provide wedding favors, with some using The Knot Vendor Marketplace to source vendors from their locality.
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Once your budget is set, you can choose the type of wedding party favors you'd like. The Knot's 2022 Guest Favors and Gifts Study** shows that about half of couples prefer favors that are unique (50%), followed by favors that fit their wedding theme (49%). We've compiled a list of cute and fun wedding favors below, many of which can be customized to suit your preferences.
In this article:
The Best Wedding Party Favors This Year
There are lots of different places to draw inspiration from when you're looking for good wedding favors—starting with our list of the best wedding favor ideas below. From cute keepsakes to edible treats to practical gifts, these giveaways will ensure your guests don't leave empty-handed.
1. Matchbox Wedding Favors
Photo: Zazzle
If you're looking for affordable wedding favors, matchboxes are a great go-to. They strike a balance between cute and practical and can easily be personalized. Zazzle offers a slew of different designs to fit your wedding theme, including this watercolor nature scene that's perfect for a rustic outdoor celebration in the mountains.
2. Champagne Flute Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
According to The Knot's 2022 Guest Favors and Gifts Study,** 52% of couples surveyed wanted favors their guests could enjoy at the wedding. What better way to fill this need than custom glassware? Place a personalized champagne flute at each table setting so your guests can use their souvenirs to toast your nuptials. Choose a fun design like "Pop the bubbly" and add your names and wedding date underneath.
3. Heart-Shaped Tea Bag Wedding Favors
Photo: Uncommon Goods
These heart-shaped tea bags make adorable parting gifts for guests. Each tea bag comes with a label attached that reads "The perfect blend" for a sweet and romantic tribute to you and your new spouse. They're available to buy in sets of 15 and include three varieties of refreshing tea: Earl Grey, English breakfast and white berry.
4. Wildflower Seed Wedding Favors
Photo: Peony Lace Paperie
Are you hosting an eco-friendly wedding? While forgoing party favors may seem like the solution, there is a way to give out sustainable gifts to your guests. These flower seed packets are one of our favorite wedding favor ideas. They're filled with wildflower seeds that guests can sprinkle in their backyard to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Each packet is made from recycled brown paper and can be customized with your wedding details in a vintage-style font.
5. Heart-Shaped Wine Stopper Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
If you could share a bottle of wine and reflect with every one of your wedding guests, you would. But there's only so much time in the day, so how about giving them a bottle stopper to capture the sentiment instead? This heart-shaped design makes a really cute (and practical) wedding favor that guests definitely won't leave behind.
6. Cute Soap Wedding Favors
Photo: My Wedding Favors
Our 2022 Guest Favors and Gifts Study** found that 35% of couples chose to give out beauty-related favors to their guests. If you like this idea for take-home gifts, these pear-inspired soaps are a great way to get in on the trend. Each one is packed individually in a gift box with a punny message that reads: "The perfect pair." Leave them on each table or gift them as part of a welcome bag to treat your loved ones.
7. Small Pizza Cutter Wedding Favors
Photo: Kate Aspen
If you and your partner count pizza as your all-time favorite meal, we've got just the party favor for you. These mini pizza cutters are practical thank-you gifts guests will be excited to take home with them. The white protective plastic grip says "a slice of..." just above a red heart, with the word "love" cut into the stainless steel to finish the phrase. They're packaged in mini red-and-white gift boxes for a cute (and Pinterest-worthy) presentation.
8. Cosmic Lollipop Wedding Favors
Photo: Uncommon Goods
Looking for party favors that'll leave your guests starry-eyed? These cosmic-themed lollipops are sure to grab their attention. The sticks are handcrafted to look like the Milky Way with mystical star scenes and swirling colors. With 10 surprising flavors in each set, including coconut, cinnamon and pear, these sweet treats are sure to disappear in minutes.
9. Mini Succulent Wedding Favors
Photo: DesertViewCactus
Instead of flower seeds, give your guests a miniature succulent as a rustic wedding favor. These handpicked plants are available to order in bulk and come in several different varieties, including rosettes, cacti and Jade plants. Each one comes in a metal bucket with the option to add a paper tag where you can write a simple thank-you note. Talk about a cute gift idea for your wedding guests.
10. Playing Card Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
After playing far too many games, you finally drew a solid hand with your one-and-only. These playful cards will lead to fun times for your guests in the future—plus, they'll keep kids entertained at the wedding. There are dozens of different designs available on The Knot Shop, but one of our favorites is this chalkboard-style deck that says, "We sealed the deal," with your names and wedding date.
11. Savory Snack Wedding Favors
Photo: Amazon
Here's a wedding reception party favor idea that your guests will eat right up. This 40-pack includes classic snacks like Cheetos, Doritos and Lays and is sure to satisfy their late-night cravings for something savory. Whether you add them to a designated snack station or place them on every table, these tasty giveaways won't be around for long.
12. Hot Sauce Wedding Favors
Photo: Best Day Ever Spot
Calling all foodies: Your search for edible wedding favor ideas ends here. These mini bottles of Louisiana Cajun-flavored hot sauce are labeled with your wedding details and a cheeky pun, like: "One hot couple." They can come preassembled or, if you want to save a little money, you can put the labels on the bottles yourself. Note: The sauce is medium heat, so it's perfect for adding a little kick without being overpowering.
13. Mini Bubble Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
Wedding ceremony favors are another way to add a personalized touch to your celebration. What could be more dreamy than walking down the aisle surrounded by bubbles floating through the air? Make your vision come true by handing out these bubble wedding favors to your guests. They come with heart-shaped wands for a cute touch and are sure to appeal to children and adults alike.
14. Personalized Wine Glass Charms
Photo: ivision
Over a quarter (28%) of couples surveyed in The Knot's 2022 Guest Favors and Gifts Study** use favors as seating or table assignments. Let each attendant know where to sit at the reception with these personalized charms on their wine or champagne glasses. Each guest's name is intricately formed from metallic wire and punctuated with a pearl. Besides being effortlessly elegant, they're also practical gifts that'll help them hold onto their drinks throughout the night.
15. Measuring Spoon Wedding Favors
Photo: My Wedding Favors
Give your guests a helpful tool to whip up something scrumptious while they're still dreaming of your wedding cake. These heart-shaped measuring spoons make the perfect wedding favors for guests. They can keep them in their kitchen and be reminded of you and your boo every time they bake something sweet.
16. Hangover Kit Wedding Favors
Photo: Wayfinder Provisions
Looking for really thoughtful wedding giveaways for your guests? Save them from a hangover with these fun favors. Each small canvas drawstring bag is prepacked with mints and Advil and then your choice of EMERGEN-C, instant coffee or liquid-IV—AKA essentials after a late night of partying. Trust us, these take-home gifts will be snatched up as people leave the dance floor.
17. Coffee Wedding Favors
Photo: Zazzle
While wedding trends come and go, coffee favors are always in style. These sealed packets contain a blend of medium roast coffee beans perfectly measured to make one pot of coffee. They come with custom labels that you can stick on yourself (or have pre-assembled for an extra fee) with your names, event details and a sweet note, "Love is brewing." Guests will appreciate having these to hand the morning after the wedding.
18. Gourmet Candy Wedding Favors
Photo: Sugarfina
Did you know Sugarfina makes little boxes of champagne gummy bears for special occasions? They're a particularly fitting wedding favor idea for couples with a sweet tooth and are a fun late-night snack for guests. Spring for even more luxurious wedding favors by handing out a personalized version of the brand's signature candy cubes.
19. Glass Coaster Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
Coasters are useful wedding favors that guests will appreciate and they can double up as table decor. These glass coasters will make an elegant addition to your tablescape, whatever your theme or aesthetic. They can be personalized with your names, event details and a fun phrase, like "The adventure begins," for a thoughtful touch. Just don't forget to remind your loved ones they can take them home.
20. Candle Wedding Favors
Photo: Trinity Candles Ca
Still wondering what wedding souvenirs to give out? Candle favors are a surprisingly meaningful option. You've found your flame, so now you give each guest one, too. Each of these candles is poured from premium soy wax and features an elegant label with your names for a high-end look. Choose from a variety of ambient fragrances, including honey almond, fresh rose and ocean breeze, to suit your tastes.
21. Hershey's Chocolate Wedding Favors
Photo: Zazzle
Chocolate is another wedding favor idea that never fails to hit the sweet spot. These Hershey's candy bars come with personalized featuring your names and wedding date for a thoughtful touch. We love this botanical design (green was a huge trend for 2023), but there are plenty of other color combos available on Zazzle to fit your theme. Buy them in bulk to add to your reception candy bar or leave them on each place setting to surprise your guests.
22. Wine Carafe Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
If you're planning to serve wine at your wedding reception meal, personalized glassware is a unique way to do it. Each of these carafes can be printed with your names and event details in a color of your choice for a cute and practical keepsake. Add a fun message, like "Let's toast" or "Drunk in love" to really get your guests in the party mood.
23. Coffee Mug Wedding Favors
Photo: dmhomecompany
Some wedding favor ideas may seem cool in theory but aren't always practical. That's not the case with these ceramic coffee mugs. The front of each is printed with a love wreath motif with your names appearing inside and your wedding date underneath. Bonus: They're available in sets of 24, so you can buy in bulk to save time and money.
24. Mini Prosecco Wedding Favors
Photo: Wine.com
Planning an NYE-themed wedding or a soireé filled with glitz and glamor? Meet your perfect wedding favors: miniature bottles of bubbly. Our data shows that alcohol and related accessories were the second most popular wedding favor idea in 2022.** Pair your mini bottles with these personalized thank-you labels to give your party favors a luxe finishing touch.
25. Funky Match Wedding Favors
Photo: Tit N Tat Press Shoppe
Matches are always popular wedding favors, which is why we've included two different options on our list. These antique-style matchboxes are available in black or white and feature labels with a retro champagne coupe motif. This type of wedding take-home gift was big in the 1970s, making it a fun throwback party favor for any couple channeling those vintage vibes on their big day.
26. Custom Koozie Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
When it comes to traditional wedding favors, can coolers may be one of the first ideas that come to mind. That's because they're really practical! Tailgating during football season, lounging by the shore, enjoying a round at home—wherever your guests are, they'll appreciate having a koozie to keep their drinks cool. Add your names, a thank-you message or a fun phrase to these can coolers for an extra touch of customization.
27. Honey Jar Wedding Favors
Photo: Best Day Ever Spot
Edible wedding favors are a popular choice for couples because they're something everyone can enjoy—especially when they're deliciously sweet, like honey. These miniature jars are filled with natural honey and feature personalized labels with your names and a punny message like, "Meant to bee." There's also an option to add dippers so your guests can scoop out the sweetness.
28. Snack Bowl Wedding Favors
Photo: Amazon
Snack bowls, ring dishes, trinket trays—whatever you call them, these cute party favors are sure to impress your guests. Each dish is shaped like a heart and comes in a set of 24, making it a super affordable wedding gift for invitees. Whether they use them to serve chips and dips, keep their keys safe or stash small items like jewelry, these thoughtful keepsakes will always remind them of your special day.
30. Heart Lollipop Wedding Favors
Photo: Sweet Caroline Confections
How darling are these pink heart lollipops? These candy favors are one of the sweetest wedding favor ideas we've seen out there. They're speckled with gold edible glitter, come adorned with a tiny tag and are available in an array of flavors, including cotton candy, raspberry and on-theme champagne.
31. Salt and Pepper Shaker Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
Salt and pepper are a match made in heaven, just like you and your spouse. These cute porcelain shakers are shaped like love birds and are the perfect wedding favors to celebrate your romance. Each pair comes packaged in a pullout box that can be decorated with custom wrap-around stickers for a more personal touch.
32. Hot Chocolate Wedding Favors
Photo: Amazon
A classic warm drink makes an excellent fall wedding favor idea. We're particularly fond of hot chocolate as a party gift, as it typically suits guests of all ages. Bulk buy these flavored hot cocoa mixes—including mint, hazelnut, raspberry and caramel—for a sweet treat loved ones can sip after dinner or take home to enjoy later.
33. Temporary Tattoo Wedding Favors
Photo: Cookillu
Tattoo wedding favors are a pretty cool trend that's everywhere right now. If you're looking for a memento of your nuptials that isn't quite so permanent, temporary tattoos are a great alternative. This design features cartoon portraits of you and your beloved, with your name and wedding date underneath. You'll be wearing your hearts on your sleeves, and your guests will be wearing your faces under theirs.
34. Printed Shot Glass Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
Here's a wedding favor idea for any guests over 21: A frosted shot glass personalized with your names or a fun phrase. Whether they get them out at the after-party or save them for a future celebration, these practical party favors will definitely be used. Bonus: Guests can also use them to hold small trinkets, candy or even loose change.
35. Guest Portrait Wedding Favors
Photo: Roo Digi Art
Planning a more intimate celebration? Consider budgeting a little extra on wedding favors per guest. These seriously cool custom portraits can be used as place cards that let your loved ones know where to sit at the reception. When the party's over, they can take them home as wedding keepsakes to treasure forever. Just purchase the digital download and send it to your go-to printer.
36. Bottle Opener Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
Just like koozies, bottle openers are handy tools most people don't even realize they need until it's too late. These metal bottle openers can slide conveniently into a credit card slot in their wallet, so they can always have them close to hand. And thanks to the personalization, these wedding guest favors will always remind your loved ones of your special day.
37. Luggage Tag Wedding Favors
Photo: PongsArt
Stylish luggage tags printed with a fun, travel-themed phrase are a cute wedding favor idea for destination nuptials. Whether guests are traveling domestically or internationally, these chic leather luggage tags will be useful on the trip home. Instead of having them stamped with your wedding details, choose a saying, like "Adventure awaits," so they can use them on all their future travels. (Psst, the more you buy, the more you save!)
38. Mini Cupcake Wedding Favors
Photo: Baked by Melissa
One slice of wedding cake just isn't enough sometimes. Send guests home with mini cupcakes in rich flavors like triple chocolate fudge, cookie dough and Red Velvet with the help of Baked by Melissa. Best of all, there are gluten-free, nut-free and vegan options available to accommodate your guests' dietary needs.
39. Paper Airplane Wedding Favors
Photo: The Knot Shop
Up, up and away you go into a happy marriage. We love these sweet gliders to hand out at a small destination wedding that takes your romance to new heights. This is one of the best wedding favor ideas for guests if you're hosting lots of little ones at your event—though we know adults will love the nostalgia, too.
40. Personalized Beach Towel Wedding Favors
Photo: TurkishWeavingArt
If you're having a small celebration or a destination wedding, surprise each of your loved ones with a colorful beach towel. They can be custom embroidered with your guests' names or a short message for a gift they can use as a beach blanket or after a swim. Practical and pretty in equal measure, these wedding favors are worth spending a little extra on.
Wedding Favor FAQ
If you're looking for the dos and don'ts of giving out wedding favors, you've come to the right place. We'll answer any questions you have about party favor etiquette, current trends and more below.
What is a wedding favor?
Wedding favors are small thank-you gifts that couples give to guests on their big day. While it's not required to hand out wedding favors, it is a lovely gesture and a thoughtful extra that's worth considering. "Giving favors to guests is something that dates back to the 16th century as a way for couples to thank their guests for attending their wedding," says Susan Dunne, designer and planner at Weddings by Susan Dunne. These are usually small tokens that correspond with the wedding's theme, the couple's personality or favorite cultural traditions.
"Personalized wedding favors that pay tribute to your love story are a great option," says Hannah Nowack, Senior Editor, Weddings at The Knot. For example, if you had your first date at an Italian restaurant, mini pizza cutters are an adorable (and practical) wedding party favor idea. Party favors that reflect your relationship journey or personal interests are equally meaningful options that'll make your guests feel close to you.
Do you give wedding favors at the ceremony or reception?
Wedding favors are usually given out at the reception or toward the end of the night. Having said that, if you want guests to have something special for the ceremony (like bubbles to blow or tissues for emotional moments), you can hand them out earlier. The timing will often be decided by what the party favor is—like champagne glasses for toasting the speeches or hangover kits for guests to take with them when the party ends.
What are some traditional wedding favors?
Classic wedding favor ideas can include personalized drinkware, like champagne flutes or can coolers, as well as bar accessories like bottle openers and coasters. Personalizing the favors with your names, wedding date or venue location is a popular approach, although gifts for wedding guests can really be anything your budget allows.
What are some trending and popular wedding favors?
This year, wedding favors are all about adding to your guests' overall experience. "Couples are prioritizing the guest experience and wedding favors are one element of creating a memorable celebration for loved ones. In recent years, consumable favors have been especially popular, from candles and hangover kits to candy and jam," says Nowack.
The Knot's 2022 Guest Favors and Gifts Study** shows a similar sentiment, with two-thirds of couples surveyed choosing a type of food or non-alcoholic drink as their wedding favor. "Another popular trend with wedding favors is for them to double as the escort card," says Nowack. This approach ensures the gifts are not accidentally overlooked. "One idea I recently saw and loved was custom journals where guest names and table assignments were written in the book spines," the editor shares.
That said, handing out wedding favors is seen as an extra that's nice to have rather than a requirement. According to The Knot's 2023 Real Wedding Study,* a third of couples are adjusting their budget, with some choosing to eliminate party favors altogether. Another reason couples forgo gifts for guests is an increased awareness of sustainability and a preference for eco-friendly goodies (like plant seeds) or edible treats that don't create waste. Finally, some couples are reallocating their favor budget to focus on experiences, like hiring a photo booth or a food truck for late-night snacks.
Ultimately, how you decide to thank your guests is up to you (and potentially your parents or anyone who's helping to pay for the wedding).
*The Knot Real Weddings Study captured responses from 9,318 US couples married between January 1 and December 31, 2023; respondents were recruited via email invitation from The Knot and/or WeddingWire membership. Respondents represent couples from all over the country with various ethnicities, income levels, race, age, sexual orientation and gender identity. To provide the most comprehensive view of 2023 trends, this report also includes wedding statistics from ad hoc studies conducted throughout the year. In a typical year, The Knot Worldwide conducts research with more than 300,000 couples, guests and wedding professionals globally.
**The Knot's Guest Favors & Gifts Study gathered responses from nearly 500 Gen Pop engaged and recently married couples in the US who did/plan to give favors out at their wedding in July 2022.
Emily Rumsey and Cathryn Haight contributed to the reporting of this article.
