TO FAVOUR OR NOT TO FAVOUR

We were recently asked whether it’s still an expected tradition to include wedding favours in the wedding budget.  Our response was naturally of reassurance – “it’s perfectly fine to not have a wedding favour if it means stretching your budget and excluding other important items, such as flowers.”  But the question did make us think…why do we have favours and does it matter if they are left out.

Favours are a centuries old tradition, steeped in history.  It is believed that they originated amongst the French aristocracy and were called Bonbonnieres – a small gift given to guests at weddings, amongst the high classes.  Typically they would be a small box, made of crystal or precious stones, containing sugared almonds or other sweet treats.  In those days, sugar was considered an expensive luxury.  This tradition was adopted across Europe, even as far as the Middle East where the bride would provide five almonds for her guests to represent fertility, wealth, longevity, health and happiness. 

Wedding favours are considered a symbol of good luck but are also a way for a couple to thank their guests for sharing their big day.  If your budget is a little tight and you are on the fence about whether to provide your guests with a favour or not, here’s our top five ideas for an inexpensive, memorable and more importantly, useful favour idea.