Maine & NH Wedding Photographer // Let’s Talk About Wedding Favors (And Why You Should Stop Buying Them)

Alright, I’m going to say the thing that nobody seems to want to say out loud… please stop buying wedding favors.

There. I said it. And no, I’m not heartless—I just hate watching people waste their money on things that 99.9% of guests leave sitting sad and lonely on the reception tables.

You know what happens to most of those adorable jars of honey or personalized shot glasses with your wedding date on them? They get left behind. Or tossed into a junk drawer, never to be seen again. People might take them if they’re drunk enough and think they’re stealing. That’s about the only scenario where they end up going home with someone.

So what should you do instead?

Honestly? Just save the money. You don’t have to buy anyone a gift for coming to your wedding. You’re already paying for a full day of food, drinks, entertainment, and (hopefully) some epic photos to remember it all by. That’s more than enough.

But if you’re dead-set on using that budget to treat your guests, make it worth their while:

• Upgrade your caterer — food memories last way longer than a candle with your initials on it.

• Bring in a food truck for late-night snacks — pizza at 10pm? Yes, please. Your guests will literally never forget you.

• Create an experience instead — hire a photo booth, a tattoo artist (yes, I’ve seen it), or bring in lawn games for cocktail hour.

• Or… just don’t spend it. Pocket that cash, take it on your honeymoon, buy yourself a pair of ridiculous but fabulous shoes—whatever brings you joy.

Your guests won’t remember what you gave them in a tiny bag. They’ll remember how they felt at your wedding. The laughter, the music, the food coma from those mac and cheese bites.

So ditch the favors. Do something cooler. Or save your money for something you actually care about.

Your guests will thank you.

(And so will your wallet.)

— Val

Wedding photographer, professional table favor graveyard observer