Is your wedding day steadily approaching? Have you thought about how you want to kick your wedding weekend off? A fun, and thoughtful way to kick off your wedding weekend is with a carefully selected welcome bag waiting for your guests upon arrival. Whether your wedding celebration is local or somewhere abroad, welcome bags are a small but meaningful gesture that tells your guest, “We’re so glad you’re here!”. But, a lot of couples may stop and say, wait – that sounds like it’s going to put a dent in our budget. Welcome bags can be fun, useful and personalized and still not break the bank. Let us help you find the perfect balance between practically, charm, and budget friendly items to include in your wedding welcome bags. We promise your guests will love it!
#01: Add a Heartfelt Welcome Note
If you’ve read our blogs on personalized thank you notes, you can expect what we have to say about handwritten welcome notes. There is nothing like a heartfelt message, written out to your guests. A handwritten note card, or quick note on stationary, adds a personal touch that sets the tone for the entire wedding weekend. Thank your guests for traveling, share your excitement and include a brief itinerary if you’re hosting multiple events (ex. Rehearsal dinner, brunch, etc.)
If you choose to print the note, remember to handwrite the names or add a short personal note for extra warmth.
#02: Include a Weekend Itinerary or Schedule
Even if your wedding isn’t a weekend packed with events, your guests will always appreciate being informed. Even if it’s a quick summary of events for the day, such as what time the ceremony starts and dinner begins. You can include event names, times, locations (with full addresses), any dress code requirements, and transportation info.
If you’re going the extra mile, include a small map or QR code linking to a custom Google Map of the venues. The more they know, the better! You want your guests, especially if traveling, to feel like they know where they are going and what to expect.
#03: Bottled Water
An easy and affordable addition to your welcome bags is a bottle of water. Or even sparkling water. After a long flight or drive, guests will appreciate something simple like bottled water. It’s an easy item that often gets overlooked but makes a huge difference. If you want to add a personal touch, create custom labels with your names, wedding date, and your social media tag.
#04: Explore Local Treats or Snacks
We love the idea of showcasing a favorite treat, or local snacks in your welcome bag. If you’re a Texas native, go and grab some snacks from H-E-B. Or, if you’re getting married in Eastern Washington, snag some fresh apples or snacks from Green Bluff. Or, throw in some of your favorite snacks. You can easily throw in your favorite sweet snacks and your partner’s favorite savory snack! Buy in bulk (to save some bucks) and stick to whatever snacks are in your budget.
#05: Skip the Favor, Add a Keepsake
If you plan on skipping the favor on your wedding day, include a small keepsake in your welcome back. This can be just a small memento that guests can take home. It doesn’t need to be expensive, just thoughtful. Some of our favorite ideas include:
A postcard of your wedding location
A magnet from your local area
Coasters with your wedding date or local area photos
Reusable sunglasses, water bottles, or koozies
Custom luggage tags
If your budget allows, a locally made gift (like honey, jam, or soap) also adds charm.
#06: Keep it Practical
Adding simple gestures such as Kleenex or travel items can be so helpful for guests who are traveling to your wedding. They are practical, can be used again and will most likely be used on the trip or at your wedding.
#07: Weather Related Items
Consider the location and time of year. Your welcome bag can help guests feel more comfortable throughout the weekend with climate appropriate extras. For hot climates, you could add mini fans, custom sunglasses, and travel sunscreens. For beach weddings, you can add a pair of flip-flops, custom beach towels, or mini SPFs. For colder climates, add some things that will keep your guests cozy like hand warmers! Throw in some chapstick and travel-sized lotion. If you are hosting your wedding outdoors, add some trail mix or bug spray! Get creative and keep your guests comfortable with including weather related items.
#08: Local Recommendations
This next tip will cost you nothing (well maybe just the paper and ink). Guests that are traveling out of town will appreciate where to grab coffee, a quick bite to eat, or enjoy a little sight seeing. This can include a small guide with information to your favorite local eateries or pubs, attractions or things to see while visiting, and emergency contact information (such as front desk hotel numbers or your contact information.) All of this information is especially helpful for guests staying longer than the wedding weekend.
We’ve talked about what to include, now let’s talk about items that guests may NOT want to see. Skip the confetti or glitter welcome. Yes, it’s cute and fun but it makes a mess and the hotel cleaning staff will not appreciate it. Stay away from overly scented items. Be mindful of allergies or sensitivities. Skip the fragile items or things that may break or melt. We love the idea of including food, but stay away from food that spoils quickly. Ensure all items are light for those who are traveling, especially those who are flying. Bottom line – keep it light, compact, and thoughtful.
Wedding welcome bags are not about blowing your budget. They are about being hospitable and helping your guests feel welcome. It is about showing hospitality in a creative, meaningful way. With a mix of items, both practical and fun, with some personal touches, it is sure to warm the hearts of your guests. Whether you DIY your welcome bags or order them pre-assembled from a vendor, what matters most is the thought behind them. Your guests traveled to celebrate with you, it’s okay to spoil them a little bit too.
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 20 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.