Ideas for Out of Town Bags

Whether your guests are traveling twenty miles or two thousand, Out of Town Bags are a great way to thank them for making the trip to celebrate with you. They're filled with supplies, local treats and other goodies for your guests to enjoy during their stay. They can be as simple or elaborate as you'd like. 

Start by figuring out your budget and how many people will be using your hotel block. This will give you a better idea of how much you can spend on each bag. Remember, you don't have to give a bag to each guest. Many couples opt to provide one per room instead. Be sure to find out your hotel's policy for distributing them. Some charge a fee which will add to your costs. 

After a budget has been nailed down, think about what kind of container you'd like to use. Do you want your packaging to be the star of the show or something simple that will let the contents shine? How large does it need to be? Keep in mind that you'll have to take all of them to the hotel with you, so be sure whatever you choose is relatively easy to transport. Here are some popular choices.

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Gift bags- Simple and classic, they come in just about any color or size and they won't break the bank.

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Boxes- Gift boxes, Gable boxes and even oversize Chinese take out containers are a great alternative to bags, but still offer variety and can be decorated in a number of ways. 

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Tote bags- Your bag can act as a gift itself. There are several gorgeous options out there including ones that are city specific. If you're pretty crafty, you can buy a plain tote and decorate it yourself. For a green option that may be a little cheaper, try reusable grocery bags. 

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Themed Containers- Let your container represent the look and feel of your wedding. Use a sand pail for a shore celebration, a picnic basket for a rustic affair, or a lunchbox for a reception at a children's museum or school. 

Once you've found the perfect container, it's time to fill it! Here are some items to consider.

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Welcome Letter and Itinerary- Write a note to welcome your guests and invite them to any activities you have planned such as after-parties or brunches. Remind them of your ceremony and reception times as well as any shuttle arrangements you've made. Having these details together in one place will keep everyone informed and on time. 

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Maps and Brochures- Show your guests the best of what your city can offer. Stop by your local visitor's center for guides, maps and brochures of local attractions including historic sites, museums or even zoos. Websites like VisitPhilly are great resources for ideas and maps that you can print yourself. Be sure to include your favorite spots, restaurant suggestions and the best ways to get around. 

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Snacks- Bake cookies for a homemade touch or buy snacks in bulk at Costco or BJ's. A few single serving items per bag will do the trick. Food is also one of the easiest ways to add some local flair to your bags. Philadelphia brides have plenty of popular items to choose from like Tastycake, Peanut Chews or soft pretzels. Other Pennsylvania brands include Herr's, Utz and Hershey's. Couple's getting married at the Jersey shore could opt for favorite's like Salt Water Taffy, Fudge or Kettle Corn.

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Drinks- Bottled water is a cheap and easy way to keep your guests hydrated. Colorful sodas like Jones are also great. Cater to the adults with a sample of your favorite local beers. Philadelphia is home to Yards, Victory and Philadelphia Brewing Company. South Jersey boasts Flying Fish, River Horse and Delaware is known for Dogfish Head. 

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Gift Cards- Is there a Starbucks or Wawa around the corner from your hotel? Give your guests a $5 gift card so they can grab some coffee or a hoagie.

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Toiletries and First Aid Items- While most hotels rooms are stocked with shampoo and soaps, other small toiletries or first aid items are a great idea to help your guests with any minor issues. Minimus is an excellent site for purchasing individual travel-sized items like Advil, Band-aids or wipes. You can also select items specific to the nature of your event. Small bottles of sunscreen are ideal for a beach wedding while bug repellent is perfect for a backyard event.

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Games- Keep your guests entertained with simple puzzles and games. Sudoku is always popular. Crossword puzzles and word searches can be customized for your wedding by several sellers on Etsy. 

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Postcards and Souvenirs- Give your guests a little something to remember their trip. Postcards are inexpensive and fun. Include a stamp so guests can send them to friends. Local souvenirs, no matter how kitschy, can add a special touch. Magnets, key chains or even pens are easy options.

Do Not Disturb signs we made for Kyle and Olin's Wedding  *coming soon*
Photo courtesy of Philip Gabriel Photography

Personalized Items and Keepsakes- Add a little something unique to your bag. Personalized "Do Not Disturb" signs are a cute way for guests to let the hotel staff know they're still recovering from the festivities. Customize a CD with your favorite songs for people to listen to on the trip home. Add your names and wedding date to one of hundreds of keepsakes on sites like Beau-Coup or The Knot. 

Whatever you choose, your guests will definitely appreciate the thought you put into your Out of Town Bags. 

-Laura

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