Wedding favours usually is not the priorities. Whilst it is common practice nowadays for couples to give out favours as a token of thanks to their guests, the lack of funds can be a hindrance at times. Indeed, many leave it to the last minute to see if there is any remaining budget that can then be used for favours. That's why you set budget first so that it will not be a rush to get something when the wedding day draw closer...

Some pointers :

• Identify these tokens early, even if you are not certain that you may have the necessary funds. By having a shortlist in hand, a quick decision can be made when the funds become available.
• Having shortlisted the favours, pay a visit to the respective vendors. See the products up close and get a quote. Do also inquire about the lead time required for the favours to be produced.
• To ensure there is minimal wastage, particularly if the favours are perishable, an accurate guest headcount is absolutely necessary.
• Don't leave it too late especially if you have a large guest list.
• Turn to close friends and relatives for help. An aunt who loves baking could possibly get some cookies done for you at a minimal cost.

What to consider?

• Relevant products – items that are a reflection of weddings.
• Flexibility – pre-designed items can be adapted to one’s requirements.
• Customisation – possibility of designing an item from scratch.
• Exclusivity – a certain level of exclusivity as you are able to provide input into the design of the favours.
• Minimum buy – is there a minimum order quantity?
• Copies – how many versions of the particular design are there?
• Packaging – are they packed in a common box or can they be individually packaged?
• Delivery – do they deliver or do you have to pick up? Request for the vendor to deliver rather than you having to collect.
• Production – are they produced locally or sourced from abroad?
• Lead time – how much time will they need to produce the favours?
• Ask to see a sample before confirming your order.

Those who are more traditional in nature will often select favours that are symbolic of marriage. Wedding bells ringing in church announcing the union of man and wife is depicted in the form of a miniature wedding bell.

And chopsticks come in pairs, therefore reflecting the love, encouragement and support between two people very much in love.

Another novel idea would be to present every guest with a mini-version of the wedding cake as a memento of the special occasion.

You can either incorporate the favours into the table setting or have friends distribute the favours towards the end of the wedding banquet.