Guest Favors Etiquette for Vow Renewals

While guest favors aren’t required at vow renewals, they offer a thoughtful way to thank your guests for sharing in your special day. Much like formal parties or weddings, favors are a kind gesture that adds a personal touch to the celebration. Whether you’re working with a big budget or looking for affordable options, guest favors can be simple, elegant, and meaningful.

In this guide, we’ll cover guest favors etiquette, creative ideas to match your theme, budget-friendly options, and tips for including children in your favor plans.

Are Guest Favors Necessary for a Vow Renewal?

Unlike weddings, where guest favors are a long-standing tradition, vow renewals do not carry the same expectation. However, some guests might expect them, especially if your vow renewal is a formal event. Favors can be a way to express gratitude for their presence, but they are by no means required.

• Etiquette Tip: If you choose to give favors, don’t feel pressured to spend a large amount. Favors should reflect your appreciation without adding unnecessary stress to your budget.

Pro Tip: If your guest list includes close family and friends who are involved in your daily life, favors can feel more intimate and thoughtful. On the other hand, for smaller, casual gatherings, favors may not be expected or needed at all.

Creative Favor Ideas That Fit Any Budget

Favors don’t need to be expensive to make an impact. With a little creativity, you can find options that reflect your personality and fit your vow renewal theme. Here are some affordable yet elegant ideas to consider:

1. Personalized Sweets

• Idea: Small boxes or jars of personalized candies or chocolates are always a hit. You can customize the packaging with your names, vow renewal date, or a heartfelt message.
• Why It Works: Edible favors are a crowd-pleaser, and guests can enjoy them at the event or take them home.

2. Candles

• Idea: Miniature scented candles are a popular and elegant favor. Choose a scent that reflects your vow renewal theme or something personal to you as a couple.
• Why It Works: Candles are both useful and decorative, giving your guests a keepsake they’ll use and appreciate long after the event.

3. Handmade Items

• Idea: Handmade favors add a personal touch. Think small, handcrafted soaps, sachets, or even DIY ornaments.
• Why It Works: Handcrafted items show thoughtfulness and creativity, making them a unique gift that guests won’t expect.

4. Seed Packets or Potted Plants

• Idea: Seed packets or small potted plants are symbolic of growth and new beginnings, making them a perfect favor for a vow renewal.
• Why It Works: They’re eco-friendly, easy to personalize, and give guests something to nurture after the event—symbolizing the care and love in your relationship.

5. Custom Tea or Coffee Bags

• Idea: Personalized bags of tea or coffee allow your guests to enjoy a relaxing moment after the celebration. Include a note saying, “Brew with love.”
• Why It Works: This is a favor that’s not only practical but also customizable to suit your tastes and personality.

Pro Tip: Coordinate your favors with your vow renewal’s theme or color scheme to create a cohesive look that doubles as part of your table décor.

How to Present Your Guest Favors

Guest favors don’t just have to sit on a separate table—they can also enhance your reception décor. Here are a few presentation ideas to elevate the look of your favors:

• At Each Place Setting: Placing favors at each guest’s seat before the reception starts adds to the table décor and provides a personal touch. This approach works especially well for smaller, more intimate vow renewals.
• Favors Table: Create a designated favor table with a sign that thanks guests for attending. You can display favors in baskets, trays, or gift boxes, making them easy to pick up as guests leave.
• Incorporate into Centerpieces: For a creative twist, incorporate favors into your table centerpieces. Small plants, candles, or edible treats can double as both décor and gifts.

Pro Tip: Add name tags to the favors if you want them to serve a dual purpose as place cards.

Budget-Friendly Favor Options

If you’re working within a budget, there are plenty of affordable options that won’t compromise on elegance or meaning. Here’s how to provide thoughtful favors without overspending:

• Bulk Items: Buying in bulk can save money, whether it’s chocolates, candles, or tea. You can customize the packaging with DIY labels or wrapping to make them feel personal.
• DIY Favors: If you’re crafty, making your own favors can be a fun way to add a personal touch. Handmade soaps, candles, or even baked goods wrapped in personalized packaging are great options.
• Simplicity Over Size: Small, meaningful favors often make a bigger impact than larger, expensive ones. Focus on quality and personalization rather than size or cost.

Pro Tip: Consider reusable or eco-friendly packaging, such as small fabric bags or glass jars, which can serve as an additional gift for your guests.

Favors for Children at Your Vow Renewal

If you’re expecting children at your vow renewal, consider providing kid-friendly favors to keep them entertained during the event. Here are a few ideas:

• Activity Bags: Fill small bags with coloring books, crayons, stickers, or small toys to keep children occupied during the ceremony and reception.
• Mini Snack Boxes: Provide kid-friendly snack boxes filled with treats like fruit snacks, crackers, or mini cookies.
• Personalized Trinkets: Consider giving out small toys, such as keychains or mini puzzles, with their names on them.

Pro Tip: Favors for children don’t have to be expensive—just something simple and fun that helps keep them entertained.

Final Thoughts on Guest Favors Etiquette for Vow Renewals

While guest favors are not required for a vow renewal, they offer a thoughtful way to thank those who attended your special day. Whether you opt for personalized sweets, handmade items, or eco-friendly plants, there’s no shortage of creative, budget-friendly options that can reflect your style and personality. Use your creativity, match the favors to your theme, and remember that the thought behind the favor is what truly matters.