Bespoke Wedding Takeaways

Bespoke Wedding Takeaways

Words by Christina Shepherd McGuire

In times when people have shifted to cherishing experiences over things, traditional wedding favors seem like a throwaway sentiment. A 20-year study by Cornell University professor Dr. Thomas Gilovich reminds us that we are a sum of our experiences. Activities (like a wedding weekend in the Tetons) evoke an “enhanced sense of social connection” that lasts far longer than a “Bill & Suzie” champagne glass that may end up at the local thrift store anyway. That’s why modern weddings are shifting to personalized experiences that send special guests away with something tangible to cherish.

For the wedding party …

Sure, there are tons of ideas for gifting your wedding party. But wouldn’t it be cool if each bridesmaid and groomsman picked out a sentimental token that commemorated an experience shared by everyone? 

That’s where permanent jewelry comes in. 

“Permanent jewelry is the perfect gift to honor bridesmaids [or groomsmen], as it’s a daily reminder of the experience shared together,” says Lacey Gay of Seminoe Metalsmithing in Green River, Wyoming. Hosting a permanent jewelry party for just your BFFs “relieves the stress of finding that one gift that suits everyone in the party.”

Gay explains that, during the process, each person hand selects their custom piece from a collection of high-quality feminine and masculine precious metal chains and handmade charms. Each guest is then measured for a custom fit before she welds the connecting link closed, which takes only a few seconds to complete. She sends guests away with care cards for their new bracelet, anklet, or necklace, which can be worn in the shower, while working out, and when sleeping. 

Gay adds, “This is a great option for couples [too], as it is truly a bonding moment.” 

For the bridal party …

Hair flower bars have become a popular way to coordinate the bridesmaids’ look, while allowing each person to create a signature style with a crown of flowers. Flower bars also make a great activity for a bachelorette party or bridal shower. Local farmer florists, such as Red House Flowers, can provide the setup complete with local and seasonal flowers, wire and ribbon, and the tools needed for each bridesmaid (and even the bride) to craft their own head decor. They’ll even provide instruction, guiding each of your guests to an individual piece celebrating the bond of best girlfriends. After the event, flower crowns can then be dried, sprayed, and cherished as a special memento.  

Similarly, “Hair accessory parties can be integrated into any special event,” says Christie Schuster, owner and stylist at Salon22 in Victor, Idaho. 

She explains that supplies can be brought to the location and even offered as a scheduled activity throughout the event. Schuster provides hair feathers and/or hair tinsel in an array of colors to fit everyone’s individual style or a group theme. Hair accessories can be integrated into a pre-wedding up-do session or provided as a reception activity for children or guests.

For the reception …

There are so many ways to personalize the reception for your guests in lieu of giving party favors. You can hire a wedding painter to create customized portraits or have a writer craft on-the-spot poetry that guests can take home. Perhaps best of all, photo booths capture moments guests can cherish for a lifetime. 

“A photo booth offers a unique experience that goes beyond traditional wedding favors,” says Kinsey Skye, founder of Teton Skye Photo Booth. “Guests not only enjoy the moment of taking fun, personalized photos, but also leave with meaningful keepsakes that capture their memories of the day.”

Skye explains that a photo booth elevates the experience by adding an element of interaction and entertainment that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Her services allow guests to be playful with props, create dynamic GIFs and boomerangs, and capture stunning group shots. 

“The booth encourages laughter, connection, and creativity, helping to make your wedding even more memorable,” says Skye. “And, unlike favors that are often forgotten, these photos become cherished mementos for years to come.”

Memories of a shared experience last far longer than any take-home goodie bag. So, a curated activity — one that yields a bespoke treasure — is just the thing to fill your guests to the brim.