Hangover helpers. Your guests are going to imbibe—and possibly overindulge—at your open bar, so it's just plain smart to give them the tools they'll need to recover in time for your post-wedding brunch. Think beyond a bottle of Advil to include a vitamin booster, such as Airborne, a mouthwash to fight bad breath, eye drops to ease red and aching eyes, and sunglasses to cover up—in case those red eyes just can't be helped.
Weather-proofing supplies. Your out-of-town guests—with little space to spare in their luggage—will be delighted to find the weather-proofing supplies they simply couldn't pack. If you're hosting an outdoor fete, for example, slip sunscreen and bug spray into your bags. Or, if you live in the country's rain capital—it's a toss-up between Seattle and Cleveland—trust us, an umbrella could save the day.
Sports gear. Root, root for the home team! After all, if they don't win it's a shame—especially on your wedding weekend. Despite their own hometown allegiances, trust us: Your guests will be happy to cheer on any team when they see a pair of inexpensive, bleacher seat tickets to the weekend game—as well as a few ballpark snacks, such as peanuts, pretzels, or Cracker Jacks—in their welcome bags.
A "do not disturb" sign. Your guests hotel will provide one, sure. But why not work with your stationer or test out your own creative skills to craft a personalized "do not disturb" sign for your guests, so that they can get some much-needed shut-eye after shutting down your dance floor? Plus, it's something they can bring home and use to keep their own unwanted guests out.
Breakfast treats. If you're not hosting a post-wedding brunch, your guests will love to wake up to fresh foods that don't require room service. A packet of coffee paired with homemade banana bread and jam is the perfect easy-peasy spread for your guests. And if you're feeling sweet, include the recipe for that bread so they can make it again when they go home.
Flip-flops. You want your guests on the dance floor, so make it easier for them to get down—but not dirty—by providing flip-flops for everyone. Select shoes in your wedding's color palette for extra fun.
A handwritten note. Taking the time to write something personal to every guest who's getting a welcome bag will be a hit, we promise. If you can find time to scribble a few sentences about why you're so glad to have this particular guest attend your big day, he or she will feel uber-appreciated—and like that the plane ticket and hotel room were well worth the cost.
