When it comes to weddings, many may wonder, “What do brides really want?” Well, according to a 2009 survey done by Kate Aspen, a leading wedding favor manufacturer, they want inexpensive but not cheap. They want style laced in sensibility. Today's bride realizes that just because it's her big day doesn't mean she has to spend a lifetime paying it off. In addition to decreasing the guest list, holding the ceremony at off-peak times and doing some major bargain shopping, the number one way that brides are saving is with do-it-yourself favor boxes. Yes, favor boxes are the most popular wedding favors because they are:

> Available in a wide variety of themes to match just about any motif

> Easy to assemble

> Can be filled with fun items like candy, treats and souvenirs

> Many of them can be personalized

> And, they're typically quite clever!

With the majority of the brides seeking to spend an average of $2-3 per favor, let's see what two bucks will get you!

Unique Themes

From purses to palm trees! Whether you're planning a feminine bridal shower or a big, bold summer wedding, there are lots of unique themes to choose from. Popping open to receive your favorite treat, you can choose from butterfly, floral, Las Vegas, beach, garden, Cinderella, winter, spring, summer, fall and snowflake designs to accent the theme of your special day.

Sophisticated Elegance

Get out the tuxedo and celebrate with formal designs, such as classic favor boxes in metallic gold and silver, pillow packs with ribbon accents, chair boxes with high backs and boxes with intricate patterns and die-cut designs. For a more trendy presentation, select a favor cone accented with a florals or elegant ribbon at the closure on top. The triangular shape definitely makes a point about your sense of style.

Personalization

Monograms are always an elegant addition to your wedding favors. Showcasing your initials on the gift tag, label or on the favor box itself, personalized wedding favors quickly become the center of attention. A single initial on a sticker may only cost a few cents, but it increases the perceived value of the favor tremendously. So, go ahead and dress up those sheer envelopes, plain boxes and gift totes with a monogram!

Bride and Groom

On your wedding day, you might not be the only lovely couple in the room if you choose a bride and groom wedding favor. Mini versions of yourself, these adorable favor boxes are shaped like a tuxedo or gown in a variety of designs. Some even add lace details to create the wedding “gown” and can be personalized, as well.

Favors That Give Back

Do more at the table than greet your guests! Choose a favor that gives back. In its simplest terms, a favor is to do a kind act for another person. Living up to their name, there are plenty of favors that allow you to make a difference in someone else's life. Many Pink Ribbon favors, for example, give back a portion of the proceeds from each purchase to breast cancer research and support programs. If you've made a donation to a particular charity in your guest's name or in honor of a loved one, scrolls can help you share the good news.

As you can see, staying with in the budget while expressing your personality is a task that is easily handled by versatile favor boxes.