Wedding favours

The culture of giving gifts to those involved in the planning of your wedding and guests who attended your occassion is fast gaining root, writes Thorn Mulli

Successful weddings and all events in essence are generally tumultuous and nerve racking, especially during the planning stages. Upon fruition and smooth running of the nuptials and reception thereafter, it is paramount that all those involved in the actual planning and those that form the audience for your occasion are appreciated. There is no better way to portray this feeling of gratitude than to present them with gifts.

Wedding favours is the official term of these presentations. Although a relatively uncommon concept among African communities, it is a worthy gesture to gift guests that grace your event.

Wisdom

Favours originated from European Aristocrats where symbols of wealth and royalty like precious stones, delicate confections and sugar (only the wealthy could afford sugar then), were handed out in small trinket boxes made from crystal or porcelain known as bonbonniere. Sugar, however, became common and was replaced by almond that signified well wishes on the couple’s new life.

To date, some communities still hand out five wrapped Jordan almonds to represent fertility, longevity, wealth, health and happiness. The bitterness of the almond and the sweetness of the coated candy exemplify the bitter sweetness of a marriage.

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Today, favours range from simple affordable trinkets, to ostentatious pieces suited and customised to the hosts taste and budget. ‘Thank you’ cards or single-rose stems handed out by ushers or strategically placed on the reception tables, are a way to go.

For a show of creativity, one could inch further and attach a small card to a rose stem. Gaining popularity is customised water bottles with the host’s photo. Of great importance, though, is to ensure that as you adhere to the aspect of gratitude, longevity is factored in.

The favours are not limited to the host or wedding ceremony. For events, such as a bridal shower, manicure kits, purse caddies and relevant books — autographed if possible —will do. For baby showers, rubber ducks, piggy banks and soaps will suffice.

Ensure that the packaging matches the grace of the gift. If possible, personalise the favour box wraps, ribbon, tags, bags, mint tins and candy jars for a polished presentation.