Wedding favors are one of the fastest growing areas of bridal fashion. Already a mainstay of the wedding celebration within much of the Atlantic Seaboard, they're finding new popularity throughout the United States and the rest of the world with each passing year.

What does the wedding favor do?

Wedding favors act as special honorariums to wedding guests, given in recognition for their attendance. Wedding favors are typically given to guests by the bride and groom, and presented through various meanings before or during the wedding reception.

The favors are also sort of substitute hosts at every guest table. Because brides aren't always to greet and thank each individual guest, the favor is a way of thanking them by proxy.

How are wedding favors given out?

The proper ceremony or procedure for giving the wedding favor is a combination of the bride's choice and local customs. Some brides choose to set them out at a central table, perhaps accompanying the table assignment or placecard holder. Others are displayed at each guest table setting within the dining hall.

Of course, there's always room for creativity, if the bride wants to put her own spin on the presentation. This creative approach works especially well at theme weddings in which the presentation might subtly accentuate the motif.

When giving the favor, the gift packaging should also include a Thank You note to even further articulate the favor's purpose. Ideally each Thank You note will include a few handwritten words of appreciation from the bride or groom.

Who should receive a wedding favor?

Every guest at the reception, members of the wedding party, any children that come with guests, and even entertainers and service staff are all eligible to receive favors.

There's no rule stating one favor for everyone, either. Brides can give different favors to different guests, depending on their interests or tastes. For theme weddings, an assortment of favors might be presented at each table setting, making an ensemble the guests can choose from for themselves.

How far in advance should favors be ordered?

Depending on the complexity of the favor, and whether brides order personalized wedding favors, the favors should be ordered as early as three to six months in advance. This will allow time for delivery and any assembly that might also be required.