If you?ve traveled out of town for a wedding in the last 5 years, you?ve probably received a welcome bag of some kind! These small gifts can set the tone for the weekend ahead and make guests feel special and cared for. That?s a win in our book! However, these little packages can also feel overwhelming, expensive and pointless on your end, if you haven?t thought the process through. With all the little details that come with planning a wedding, you really want to make this one count! Easier said than done, right" We?ve got your back! Below is a the list we?ve created of all our essential welcome items, PLUS you can download a resources list of where to find them, HERE!

(Photo by Alex Bramall)
Before we get into the list, we have one overall note to keep in mind. This might seem obvious, but keep it THOUGHTFUL! When buying items for your welcome bags, try to make sure that they check one or more of these boxes: ? Local to the wedding location.

? Local to where you or your partner grew up.

? Local to where you and your partner currently live (if it?s different from where you grew up or where the wedding is).

? Your favorite! For instance, the cookies you?ve loved forever that are easily associated with you.

? Something guests will need or want during the weekend. For instance, sunglasses at a beach wedding.

(Photo by Heather Waraksa)
1. Refreshments. After people spend the day traveling, they usually feel depleted and in need of refreshments! We always suggest s...