What to put in a Wedding Welcome Bag
Creating the perfect welcome bags for wedding guests staying at hotels is a wonderful way to kick off your wedding weekend and show appreciation for your guests’ efforts to be a part of your special day. As a wedding planner, I’ve seen firsthand how these thoughtful gestures can make a significant impact. When you’re hosting a wedding in Indiana, incorporating a local flair gives your guests a unique taste of the Hoosier state. Here’s how you can curate an unforgettable welcome hotel bag filled with Indiana charm.
Essential Items for Your Welcome Bags
1. A Personalized Welcome Note: Start with a heartfelt note thanking your guests for coming. Include a brief itinerary of the wedding events, transportation details, and contact information for key people (like the wedding planner or a designated family member). And even add your wedding theme on the note.
2. Water Bottles: Hydration is key, especially after a long trip. You can customize the labels to match your wedding theme.
3. Snacks: Offer a mix of sweet and savory snacks. Think about including Indiana favorites like:
- Popcorn: Indiana is one of the top popcorn-producing states. Bags of gourmet popcorn from Just Pop In!
- Chocolate: Include treats from local chocolatiers like:
- B Happy Peanut Butter
- Or skip the local snack and add a His & Her favorite snack.
4. Local Maps and Guides: Provide a map highlighting the wedding venue, hotel, and nearby attractions. Adding a list of your favorite local eateries, parks, and museums can encourage your guests to explore.
Fun and Functional Additions
1. Hangover Kit: After a night of celebration, your guests will appreciate a kit equipped with aspirin, Alka-Seltzer, eye drops, Liquid IVs, and a refreshing facial mist.
2. Custom Do-Not-Disturb Signs: These can be fun and functional, especially if they’re personalized with something like, “Recovering from [Couple’s Name]’s Wedding!”
3. Artisan Goods: Support local artisans by including handmade items such as soaps from Lather & Lotions or small crafts from local markets.
4. Seasonal Items: If you’re having a fall wedding, include a small bag of locally-sourced apple cider spices. For a summer wedding, packets of seeds from Indiana flowers like peonies (the state flower) can be a lovely touch.
Final Tips
Make sure the bags are delivered to the hotel ahead of the first guest’s arrival. Coordinate with the hotel staff to have the bags handed to your guests as they check in or placed in their rooms.
A welcome bag is more than just a collection of items; it’s a preview of the wedding and a way to immerse your guests in the local culture and hospitality. By thoughtfully selecting items that resonate with Indiana’s spirit, you ensure a memorable and warm welcome that sets the tone for your joyous occasion.
Happy Wedding Planning!
