Classic Wedding Favors

The tradition of giving wedding favors has its roots in the 13th century when wealthy European aristocracy would give little decorative boxes filled with sweet confections or sugar cubes to their female wedding guests. Today the wedding favor industry is big business and there are many different types of favors to choose from.

For some brides though, their wedding favors have to be traditional and classic, in much the same way as their wedding will be. But with all the choice available within the many wedding favor stores, it can be difficult to know exactly what a traditional, classic wedding favor is.

Almonds took over from sugar cubes once wedding favors reached the mass market and every bride began handing them out. Jordan almonds are the best know and have a sweet coating on them. The combination of the bitter almond and sweet coating was said to represent the bitter-sweetness of marriage. They would be given in either threes of fives representing health, wealth, happiness, longevity and fertility. It was usual to present them in small boxes or in tulle nets.

Almonds are not to everyone’s taste so you can purchase chocolate versions instead which have a candy coating. These are available in a range of colors and also in different shapes such as hearts or flowers. They are a popular choice and a common favor at many weddings.

Candles are popular with weddings whether they are given as favors or not. Tea lights and votives are the most common sizes for wedding favors as they are small and easy to carry home later on. Try to include a small holder, especially for tea lights which can look a little beleaguered if given in just their foil tins! Votives can be given on their own and look nice in a voile bag or tied with a simple piece of ribbon and a thank you tag.

Chocolate truffles are perhaps an echo from the original sweet confections given in the 13th century. The best aren’t cheap but they do give a certain touch of luxury to your tables! The best part is that you can get away with just giving one or two if you are on a tight budget. Look out for some decorative, silver colored plastic plates to present them on as it is a sure bet no-one will be taking them home later on!

Finally, wedding bells are symbolic of weddings and miniature ringing bells make a fun wedding favors. The tradition is that whenever you and your groom enter the room, your guests must ring the bells and the two of you should kiss. There use beyond that is purely decorative but your guests will get some enjoyment from them and you get plenty chances to show your love!