Must we do both OOT bags and Favors

[Melidell]

I think you'd be fine doing just one or the other. I'm not doing OOT bags but from what I've seen here they are so much more than the average favour that I don't think any guest would feel cheated by not receiving a table favour as well. I also agree that a really nice favour instead would be fine- I don't think a lot of people even know about OOT bags. Or, you could do a scaled down version of an OOT bag with less in it, based on some sort of theme (like relaxation, romance, etc...). I saw something like this in the Martha Stewart destination wedding issue and they were stunning. I guess I'm trying to say, all of my babbling aside, don't feel like you "have" to do anything. Just try to do something that works for you that also lets your guests know that you appreciate them being there.

[Angel-in-Law]

I think your budget will dictate what you can do. When first researching destination weddings I read about OOT bags and thought it was a must do for me. I don't think mine will get quite as elaborate as some of the other wonderful OOT bags I've seen on this site, but I plan to do what I can. I'm thinking of spending around $10 per person for the OOT goodies. The brides-to-be on this site have given great tips on all sort of items to place in the bags for reasonable prices.

 

I had been debating whether or not to also do wedding favors and I think I will do that too. Something small (undecided as to what) and candy. Will probably be another $2 per guest.

 

I feel that since any guests will have traveled and expended a good amount of money and time to be there, it's the least that I can do. It also helps that I don't anticipate having more than 50 guests

 

How I plan to carry all the loot? Now that is the question! lol.

[LadyTrunck]

I received an OOT bag on a DW that I went to a few years back- nothing as elaborate as what I've seen on here, but it was sunscreen, hangover kit, some other stuff. Honestly, I didn't use any of it, because I had brought all of the stuff myself in my normal packing routine.

 

I think it's a great idea, but in order to avoid the same thing, we sent shot glasses and tequila as our STD/invites, and 3 weeks before we will send out luggage tags, guests will receive welcome books and personalized cups for when they arrive to the hotel, then maracas, fans, hotsauce for the wedding portion (I know...we're hotsauce fiends!)

 

It seems to be more spread out-- but as everyone has said----- do what is best for your wedding! Trust me, whatever you do, it will be great!

[*Meagan*]

We did OOT bags for everyone and they all loved them! We did not do favors due to the fact we were doing OOT bags. We also did a pre wedding letter and sent out personalized luggage tags to each person. I think its the thought that counts and whatever you feel is best. I do think the OOT bag is the way to go.. and you dont need to go overboard on it either! Good Luck!

[CND_Redhead]

Christina-- That's what I was thinking of doing also. Giving out the OOT's before we leave. Going to try to do it as close to the departure date as possible (so people remember to bring the stuff) I was actually thinking of giving them out at the airport but didn't know how that would work with customs and such. (we're doing larger travel mugs and putting a few little things inside)

 

Did you also do favors?? I have to bring decorations down so I'm trying to limit what I have to carry with me. I know my family would help but it seem so easy to get carried away!

[cross]

I think it comes down to what you feel comfortable doing. I got really excited about the OOT bags when I first read about them, but then I took a deep breath and realized the expense involved to put them together the way i would have wanted. So we decided to do koozies at the departure party my MOH is giving, and nice stainless steel shakers with tequila and margarita mix inside for favors. Whatever your decision is just be sure to remember your budget and to have fun with it. Good Luck!