What Should I Put in My Welcome Bags?

I've heard this question a lot.  I know, I know, welcome bags are literally like, the last thing on your mind when planning a wedding.  They (along with other last minute details) tend to be forgotten until the last spare moments before the big day - aka the opposite of a time in life that you want to be adding another project to your plate - trust me, I've been there.

SO, what I think is this: keep it simple.

Simple means something different to everyone, I know, but really a welcome bag can be built on a very simple foundation: Welcome guests with a personalized note, add in a snack or two (Do you have a favorite snack?  Is there a local treat that your out of town guests HAVE to try? Working with a pretty color scheme you can build off of?), don't forget a little morning-after remedy for your guests and wrap it up pretty to coordinate with the rest of your wedding day details.

Now, of course, you can get much fancier than that, but really, I think the key to a great welcome bag is in the design.  The snacks and other goodies are great, but the thing that will really stand out is the details.

Now, for some of my favorite fun things to include in your welcome bags:

Gourmet Pistachio Nuts, Lobster Lollies & Letterpressed Nautical Coasters are adorable (and yummy!) for a summer wedding in New England.

Honestly, who wouldn't love to see a vintage coke bottle in their out of town guest welcome bag upon arrival?

Kinda obsessed with these stripey straws.  Seriously.

How pretty is this? Artisan loose tea leaves, gourmet honey, keep calm and cycle on match box, a custom "merci" welcome note, and a mini care kit (advil, pepto, shout wipes & gum in a cute little muslin bag).  Adore the kraft gable box with blue satin ribbon!

I am also LOVING the water bottles wrapped in ribbon, topped with a stripey straw.  Forget custom water bottle labels!  Way cuter.

What will you add to your welcome bags?  What are your favorite local snacks??

xo