Out of Town Guest Gift Bags

Traveling to a wedding is a big commitment for your guests, not only financially, but also because they have to spend a lot of time in an unfamiliar city. For example, if you are getting married in Chicago, there is so much to do and see that they probably won't have a clue where to start. One of the ways you can make them feel at ease is by giving out-of-town guests gift bags when they arrive. These bags should include several fun and practical items to make the wedding weekend more enjoyable for them.

• A hand-written thank you note should be the first thing your guests find in their gift bags. Taking the time to write a note lets them know that their presence matters to you and that you really appreciate the effort they went through to be here for your wedding.
• Snack foods are a must-have because many of your guests will be arriving late at night. Plus, eating out all weekend can be expensive, and having some snacks helps them stay full between meals. Include a bag of microwave popcorn if the hotel has microwaves. In addition, toss in a handful of granola bars, some single-serve packages of nuts or dried fruit, and some coffee and tea bags so they can have their morning buzz. If your city is known for any specific foods, include these as well.
• A weekend itinerary with maps and directions helps your guests get to all of the scheduled activities easily and on time. You definitely need to include a map and directions to the ceremony and reception. If guests are invited to the rehearsal dinner and other weekend events, include information about these as well.
• Recommendations for local shops give your guests some ideas for how to spend the unscheduled time during the weekend. Make this part as personal as possible, including some of your favorite spots in the area to hang out, and stories of times you have spent there as a couple. If you got engaged in the area, tell them where so they can see the special location!
• Tickets to local attractions take some of the financial burden off your guests and encourage them to see the best your city has to offer. For example, include tickets to your favorite Chicago attractions like the Shedd Aquarium and the Ferris Wheel on Navy Pier.
• Travel-sized toiletries help your guests avoid a trip to the store if they forgot to pack some items. Small bottles of shampoo, conditioner, lotion, a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and a sewing kit can help make their stay easier. Plus, they can take home whatever they didn't need to use during the weekend.

Start gathering items and putting your gift bags together at least a month before your wedding so this important job doesn't get lost in the last-minute chaos. If you have a block of rooms at a hotel, the front desk will usually take care of distributing the bags to your guests. Otherwise, you can have a friend hand deliver them to wherever your guests are staying or pass them out at a wedding-related event early in the weekend. With a personalized gift bag, your guests will be able to make the most out of the wedding weekend!