Top 6 Best Wedding Favors (That Won't End Up in the Trash)

David & Tania Photography

As a wedding planner, I’ve seen it all—from heartfelt keepsakes to well-intentioned trinkets that quietly find their way to the trash. The truth is, the best wedding favors are not only thoughtful and personal, but also useful. Here are a few of my favorite favor ideas that consistently delight guests—and won’t be left behind on the table.

Montana Dennis Photography

1. Custom Coasters

Personalized coasters are both elegant and practical. Whether they feature your initials, wedding date, or a fun quote, these little tokens become part of your guests’ home décor. They serve as daily reminders of a beautiful celebration, and they’re easy to transport, even for out-of-town guests.

2. Delicious Snacks

You can never go wrong with edible favors. Think gourmet cookies, mini jars of local honey, or even a late-night snack bag with your favorite treats. Package them in custom wrapping or boxes, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both the heart and the stomach.

3. USB Drives with Wedding Music

This one’s a hidden gem: preload a small USB drive with a playlist of your wedding songs—ceremony music, first dance, reception hits. Guests love the nostalgic value, and it’s a surprisingly intimate way to share a part of your story. Bonus points if the drive is branded or shaped to match your theme.

Studio EMP

4. Custom Tote Bags

Tote bags are especially great for destination weddings or weekend-long events. They’re reusable, easy to personalize, and incredibly handy. Fill them with water bottles, local guides, snacks, or other small gifts, and you’ll have a favor that gets used long after the wedding day.

Robert Paetz Photography

5. Custom Hot Sauces

For couples who love bold flavor, custom hot sauces are a spicy, fun option. With your own label design and flavor choice, it’s a unique way to show personality. They’re shelf-stable, compact, and bound to spark conversations every time your guests reach for them.

CP Photography

6. Succulents or Mini Plants

Succulents are low-maintenance, cute, and symbolic of growth—perfect for a wedding. Presented in a small pot with your names or a sweet tag, these favors double as both décor and gift. They’re environmentally friendly and bring a little life into your guests’ homes. You could even add a tag using seeded paper that they can plant when they get home and watch it grow!

The best wedding favors reflect who you are as a couple while being something your guests will actually use or enjoy. With a little creativity, you can turn your token of appreciation into something unforgettable. Trust me—your guests will thank you for it.

The Double Knot