We are getting married out of state and have about 35 people traveling out of state to come to the wedding. I want to find a way to tell them thank you and just how very, very, very, very much it means to us that they are willing to travel so far (8hours) to be with us on our special day. We are on a budget so I can't order 15 dozen fresh roses for everyone or anything like that but are there other ideas? Thanks so much!
I'm not sure if you only have 35 guests at your wedding or they are the only ones traveling. If they are traveling, I assume they'll be staying at a hotel and you can make up a gift bag for each family to greet them at the hotel. If you have a local item that would be good in it such as Peanuts for Va., Pralines for Ga., etc. add that in otherwise just a few snacks, card games, lotions, etc. Now then if these 35 guests are your only guests, then make it up to them in the favors. Nancy Tucker President of Weddings Beautiful US http://www.weddingsbeautiful.com
How about loudly and publicly? Stand up and give a toast - it's free, and will mean a lot to your out-of-town guests.
You (or your groom) can stand up after the Best Man, Maid of Honor, or whomever will be giving toasts, and thank everyone for coming, and tell your out-of-town guests how especially happy you are that they would travel so far to celebrate with you. Rick Pieczonka - Instant Wedding Toasts http://www.instantweddingtoasts.com
Usually when guests are traveling they all stay at the same hotel. If you make them all one gift bag per room you can have the people at the front desk give them the bag when they check in. It is a great idea, personable, and you don't have to spend a lot of money. If you get snacks from a bulk food store then you can get a lot for the money. Also include bottled water and maybe even a can or two of soda. A great idea in the gift bag is a disposable camera, and sometimes the hotel will give you booklets of fun things to do and places to eat in the area. You will have to ask the hotel about that. That is what I have gotten before at weddings where I have had to travel, and I thought it was great.
I also like the toast idea...and the others are all nice ideas. As much as anything try to give a personal hug and thanks to each of them and include your thoughts in a thank you note later. Sometimes if there is a lot of family traveling it can also be nice to organize a morning after breakfast. It may be a bit over budget but would be a nice way express your thanks...No you do not need to attend that part...but your travelers can keep the festivities going a bit longer. Good luck and be happy!!! Sue of Hobart's Fine Florals http://www.hobartsfineflorals.com
Consider having your pictures taken separately with each guest, and then send it to them later with a hand written thank you note. Memories are often the best gifts, and seeing the picture will bring them more smiles over the years. Copen Cabana DJ Audio Visual Production providing Custom Wedding Coffee Table Photo Book with DVD Services http://www.knowareland.com
Thank-You gifts
I also like the toast idea...and the others are all nice ideas. As much as anything try to give a personal hug and thanks to each of them and include your thoughts in a thank you note later. Sometimes if there is a lot of family traveling it can also be nice to organize a morning after breakfast. It may be a bit over budget but would be a nice way express your thanks...No you do not need to attend that part...but your travelers can keep the festivities going a bit longer. Good luck and be happy!!! 