Couples marrying in 2022 certainly got generous with their gifting. Many “nearlyweds” went beyond the usual favours to give their wedding guests a bag full of goods and spread the joy of their special day in a different way. 2023 promises much of the same, with an increasing number of couples expected to give wedding goody bags to cement the status of their luxury or sustainable wedding.
Here we explore why goody bags should be an essential part of your wedding, how to build a goody bag you can be proud of, and the top totes that make perfect homes for your carefully selected items.
Why gift wedding goody bags?
Wedding goody bags are fantastic options for couples looking to give a little more generously to celebrate their special days. For couples hosting wedding weekends, goody bags offer a simple way to pass on the supplies that’ll get guests through as well as mark the occasion in style.
Also known as ‘welcome bags’, goody bag inspiration comes in all shapes and sizes, which means wedding budgets big and small can create a collection of guest essentials that suits. Even at smaller, more intimate celebrations, wedding goody bags unlock a number of perks as Brides explains:
“Especially if you are hosting a more intimate ceremony, a welcome bag is a nice gesture – and it’s definitely doable if you have a smaller invite list. Your guests will appreciate anything you give them to kick off your wedding weekend…”
How do I build my bag?
Just like your choice of favour, selecting the goodies that will take pride of place in your welcome bag requires careful consideration. Offering a mix of items (including refreshments and travel must-haves) will ensure everyone, including guests travelling long and shorter distances to celebrate with you, is satisfied.
Using your goodies to introduce guests to the local area is another tack taken by marrying couples. Explore the area that surrounds your wedding venue to discover tons of locally sourced gifts to impress your guests and actively support local businesses.
In addition to refreshments, toiletries and travel essentials, your goody bag should contain the schedule for your wedding day or weekend. A pack of pocket-sized tissues or a handkerchief is another goody that will come in handy for guests attending your ceremony. Fun gifts like hangover kits also make quirky additions.
What else do I need to shop for?
It’s not just what’s inside your goody bag that counts. The bag itself is an important consideration and one that can be personalised to your day and coordinated with your wider wedding theme and colour scheme.
For those looking to pop their goodies in a tote, this Personalised Burlap Bag from ToteAndBespoke is a great pick. Add a little humour to your bag choice with the ‘Totes Went to The Wedding’ Shoulder Bag from WellOiledPrintShop. Go affordable and eco with this Unique Paper Guest Bag from happyceremonies.
Looking to blow the budget on those goodies? Get a bag to match by storing them in these Wicker Hampers with Antique Wash Finish from CotswoldEdgeHampers.
