Favors With Flavor

Choosing an appropriate favor for your wedding guests should be a breeze, right? Then why do many couples have trouble picking just the right one?

There are options through stores, catalogs and the Internet. This can be good and bad. Selection is great, as long as it isn't overwhelming.

The best way to begin this process is to think back to weddings you have attended. What favors do you remember most? Which favors had a practical purpose? Did everyone rave over the custom made chocolates? Are you still using that beautiful votive candle holder? Ask family, friends and co-workers for their memorable favor experiences.

Next, consider the personalities and preferences of you and your partner. Do you have special interests that would lend themselves to customization of a favor? Consider your guests. How many favors will be needed? What are the demographics?

These questions can help you determine a budget and what type of gifts your guests would enjoy.

After all this consideration, you may decide to forgo favors altogether. Couples on a budget might choose to put the money towards other aspects of the wedding. Other couples might choose to donate money to a charity and put cards at each place setting describing the organization and why it was chosen by the couple.

If you are planning on going with a physical favor, take the information you have gathered and start looking for inspiration. Some of the most popular favors are: frames, candles, themed ceramic items, wind chimes, custom chocolates, and break away centerpieces. The Internet is a great place to start your search.

If you are getting married in the Poconos, why not give a favor with a feel for the region.

• Some ideas are:
  -Visiting local art galleries and fine craft venues to find objects made by local artisans.
  -Doing the same at souvenir shops for Poconos-themed objects (Don't be afraid to mix and match).
  -Giving tree saplings.
  - Giving candy from local chocolatiers.
  -Visiting our many candle shops to see what they have to offer.
  -Personalizing golf tees (especially if your event is taking place at one of our renowned golf resorts).