Must we do both OOT bags and Favors

[Tennyt1]

I'm very concerned with price and traveling with all of these items. Is it necessary to do both welcomc bags and favors or would we be ok with just favors?

[Amymarie]

I am still unsure about this as well. I will for sure have a welcome letter with some sort of gift, but i just feel that bringing that much down will be such a pain.

[vdaybride]

I think it is a personal decision. Some people expect OOT bags when they travel for a DW and some have never heard of them and are really surprised when they receive them. People are traveling really far to be with you, it would be nice for you to have an OOT bag to welcome them IMO..If you choose not to do an OOT bag, maybe you could get a really nice favor only. I am sure there are many brides on here that did one OR the other.. I am sure they will tell you that either way things all worked out.

[lil_reeves]

I did favors only...which was a donation to a local children's charity. My guests were a very giving group and loved it! I think it's really up to you. My guests did not want OOT bags when I asked for opinions since they were all pretty much over-packed with their own things to begin with and didn't feel they needed anything else.

 

I did print out an itinerary for them for the wedding day but that was pretty much it. I think it's sounds like fun to put together OOT bags from what i've read on here. It's like a hunt to find all the neat little things to put into it. However, I say If it's more stress than good then maybe nix it and give really nice favors.

 

If in doubt ask for a few opinions from some of your guests!

[TLC4Rock]

I agree do what works best for your budget. I'm actually thinking of doing away with the OOT bags (after I purchased the bags)! I got too excited reading all the ideas on this site then I realized I need to slow down and breathe...think about it then act upon it.

 

Also, I mentioned the idea to my MOH and she was saying people maybe overwhelmed with all the stuff to carry back along with any souvenirs they purchase.

 

So to answer your question...I'm still in limbo! :-0

[robbiemoe]

I agree with Lil Reeves, I'm doing oot bags, and making a donation to the children's hospital foundation (where I work, here in Alberta). It's a nice sentiment, and you only have to bring the table cards that let your guests know that you've made a donation in their honour. This way, your guests get their welcome gift, and you can incorporate charitable giving into your wedding (I'm a bit biased, but I think it's a great thing to do )

 

Many charities have wedding giving programs these days, and most will give you table cards.

 

Good luck planning!

[Diva]

I am just doing oot bags with a bunch of fun stuff in it like luggage tags and door hangers they can use as favors. They also do not take up a whole bunch of room in luggage!

[dayna_123]

I'm thinking about just doing favors...I hadn't even heard of OOT bags before this site. Although it is a nice idea, just seems to pricey.

[Thomasjsgirl]

I did both, and my guests were floored by the OOT bags. Everybody expects a favour, so big thrill there, but the OOT bags were a major hit. However, you absolutely do not need to do both. It all comes down to personal preference, and the logistics of getting that stuff to your destination.

[clfaidl2]

It's up to you, i think you could do one or the other. I think a nice favor or an OOT bag is a nice gesture since the guests are traveling so far to your wedding. We didn't want to carry all of the OOT bags either, but we still did bags......only difference is we gave them out early (before the trip). I'm sure whatever you decide it will be fine...good luck