Top 5 Wedding Favors for Wedding Guest

Weddings are not just about exchanging vows but also about celebrating love with those who matter most. As we move into 2025, couples are looking to create heartfelt, memorable moments while staying true to their personal style. One delightful way to leave a lasting impression is by gifting innovative wedding favors. Here’s our curated list of the top 5 wedding favors for 2025 that blend personalization, sustainability, and tech-savvy flair with modern design.

1. Personalized Eco-Friendly Succulent Planters

Sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it’s a lifestyle. Eco-conscious couples are opting for favors that not only add beauty to their guests’ homes but also help the environment. Mini succulents, planted in recycled or biodegradable planters with custom tags, are the perfect fusion of nature and personalization.

2. Artisan Local Gourmet Treats

Food speaks to the heart, and 2025 is all about celebrating local craftsmanship. Curated mini jars of local honey or artisan jams, or even bite-sized gourmet chocolates, allow your guests to savor a taste of the region. These treats become conversation starters and serve as a delicious reminder of your special day.

3. DIY Mini Cocktail Kits

For couples who love hosting and mixing a good drink, DIY mini cocktail kits are a toast-worthy favor idea. These kits can include small bottles of bitters, mini mixers, or even a unique cocktail recipe curated by the couple. They add an interactive element to your celebration, inviting guests to recreate the chemistry of your celebration at home.

4. Customized Scented Candles

Candles evoke warmth and nostalgia—a soft glow of light, a whiff of a signature scent. Customized scented candles have long been a favorite, and in 2025, couples are taking them to the next level with personalized fragrance blends that tell a story. Whether it’s the aroma of a favorite seasonal spice or a custom blend that reflects your journey together, these candles create an intimate ambiance long after the celebration ends.

5. Digital Keepsake Cards with QR Codes

As technology continues to shape personal experiences, merging physical and digital mementos is a winning strategy. Digital keepsake cards are an innovative twist on traditional paper favors. With a stylish, custom-designed card that features a QR code, guests can access a curated online gallery of wedding photos, a personalized thank-you video, or even an exclusive playlist.

The wedding favors of 2025 aren’t about splurging for the sake of glamour—they’re about creating sustainable, heartfelt experiences. Whether your style is eco-chic, foodie-focused, interactive, aromatic, or tech-savvy, these favors can transform a simple thank-you into a lasting memory. Consider your own wedding narrative: what reflects your shared journey? Which favor tells your love story best?

We’re ready to help you pick your wedding guest favors as your wedding planner! Click here to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning Raleigh, New Bern, Wilson, and Greenville North Carolina.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning owned and operated by Certified Wedding Planner Natosha Graham

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning offers Wedding Day Management Services formerly known as Day of Wedding Coordination, Partial Wedding Planning Services, Full Service Wedding Planning Services, and Event Design Services for all your Social Events.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning caters to Weddings and Events in Greenville North Carolina, Raleigh North Carolina, and surrounding

Eastern North Carolina Wedding locations and Worldwide.

Real Wedding: Eddie & Stephanie Nesbeth | The Grand Marquise Ballroom Garner, NC

Let’s take a walk down memory lane with Eddie and Stephanie Nesbeth. We met this lovely couple a local bridal show. We were honored to receive an email from them that they were interested in our services. During our phone consultation we immediately clicked, and we knew we were able to provide them with our coordination services.

During their planning process, we checked in monthly and assisted them with any questions that they had since they took on all the planning themselves. We did provide them with our vendors list to help assist with any additionally vendors that needed to be secured to complete their wedding day vendor team.

Due to the wedding party being located in different states, we had to get creative with the wedding rehearsal because the venue required the wedding rehearsal be done on a weekday. Our recommendation for the couple was to have the rehearsal off site and we would conduct a wedding rehearsal, prior to the wedding to ensure proper placement of the wedding party.

We would love to chat with you about your wedding, Click Here to schedule your phone call.

Venue: The Grand Marquise Ballroom, Garner NC, Caterer/Bakery: Cake Couture, Rentals: Curated Events, Florals: Cheryl’s Floral Design, Photography/ DJ: Story and Rhythm, and Transportation: A Formal Affair Limo

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning Raleigh, New Bern, Wilson, and Greenville North Carolina.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning owned and operated by Certified Wedding Planner Natosha Graham

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning offers Wedding Day Management Services formerly known as Day of Wedding Coordination, Partial Wedding Planning Services, Full Service Wedding Planning Services, and Event Design Services for all your Social Events.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning caters to Weddings and Events in Greenville North Carolina, Raleigh North Carolina, and surrounding

Eastern North Carolina Wedding locations and Worldwide.

5 Tips for Using Pinterest as Inspiration for Your Wedding or Event

Planning a wedding or special event can be a thrilling yet daunting task. Pinterest, with its vast collection of ideas and inspirations, can be a lifesaver for turning your dreams into reality. Whether you are planning a destination wedding or a vintage wedding, remember Pinterest is inspiration and doesn’t give you a realistic view on pricing. Here are five tips to make the most of Pinterest for your big day:

1. Create Specific Boards

Start by setting up different boards for each aspect of your event. Whether it’s for the venue decor, attire, flowers, or menu, having dedicated boards helps you organize your ideas. This way, you can easily refer back to them when discussing plans with your event planner, florist, or caterer.

2. Pin with Purpose

While it's tempting to pin everything that catches your eye, it's crucial to be selective. Focus on pins that genuinely resonate with your vision for the event. This will keep your boards cohesive and aligned with your overall theme.

3. Search Smart

Use specific search terms to find the most relevant pins. Instead of searching for something broad like "wedding," try more detailed queries like "vintage outdoor wedding ideas" or "bohemian bridal bouquet." This will help you find more tailored inspiration that suits your theme.

4. Collaborate with Others

Pinterest allows you to invite others to contribute to your boards. This feature is perfect for collaborating with your event planner, bridal party, or even your partner. Sharing ideas and getting feedback can make the planning process more enjoyable and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

5. Stay Updated

Pinterest is constantly updated with new ideas and trends. Keep revisiting your boards and explore new pins regularly. Follow wedding and event planners, florists, and other industry professionals to stay in the loop with the latest trends and innovations.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning Raleigh, New Bern, Wilson, and Greenville North Carolina.

 Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning owned and operated by Certified Wedding Planner Natosha Graham

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning offers Wedding Day Management Services formerly known as Day of Coordination, Partial Wedding Planning Services, Full Service Wedding Planning Services, and Event Design Services for all your Social Events.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning caters to Weddings and Events
in Greenville North Carolina, Raleigh North Carolina, New Bern North Carolina and surrounding Eastern North Carolina Wedding locations and Worldwide.

Real Wedding: James & Madeline Dellamorte | Sacred Heart Catholic Church & The Howard House | Dunn, NC

Meet James and Madeline Dellamorte. We had the pleasure of designing and coordinating their wedding back in May of 2022. Their wedding ceremony was held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the wedding reception was held at historic Howard House located in Dunn, NC.

The couple choose to have a tented wedding reception on the front lawn of the Howard House. One of the things we loved about the bride was her love for vintage charm that she mixed so elegantly in the wedding design. From her wedding invitation stationary to her seating chart with the wax envelope seals, to her lace sleeved wedding dress. This bride’s personality shined all the way through.

If you are looking to have a vintage style wedding and need help bringing all the elements together, feel free to schedule a consultation with us CLICK HERE

Vendor Team: Wedding Coordinator: Exquisite Events, Florals: Cheryl’s Floral Design, Caterer: Funky Fresh Catering, Photographer: Through Linz Photography, Rentals: Curated Events Raleigh, Videographer: Bobby Parker Video, DJ: 1st Choice Custom DJ, Baker: Angie Sutton

It has been an absolute pleasure and honor to help you plan your dream wedding. From the moment we first met to discuss your vision, to the final touches on your special day, every step of this journey has been a joyful and enriching experience.

Your wedding is a reflection of your unique love story, and I am so grateful to have been a part of creating these unforgettable memories. Whether it was choosing the perfect venue, designing A 3D Room Layout, or ensuring that every detail was perfect, it was my goal to make your vision come to life.

I truly appreciate the trust and confidence you placed in me and my team. Your enthusiasm and collaborative spirit made the planning process smooth and enjoyable. Seeing your happiness on your wedding day was the ultimate reward.

I hope that your wedding day was everything you dreamed it would be and more. As you embark on this new chapter together, I wish you endless joy, love, and adventure.

Thank you for allowing me to be a part of such a significant moment in your lives. We look forward to serving you in 2025!

Sincerely,

Natosha Graham

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning Raleigh, New Bern, Wilson, and Greenville North Carolina.

 Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning owned and operated by Certified Wedding Planner

Natosha Graham

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning offers Wedding Day Management Services formerly known as Day of Wedding Coordination, Partial Wedding Planning Services, Full Service Wedding Planning Services, and Event Design Services for all your Social Events.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning caters to Weddings and Events
in Greenville North Carolina, Raleigh North Carolina, and surrounding areas

Eastern North Carolina Wedding locations and Worldwide.

Tips to cut your wedding guest list

Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it comes to managing the guest list. If you're finding it challenging to keep your guest list under control, here are 15 tips to help you trim it down without hurting anyone's feelings.

1. Set a Firm Budget

Before you start writing down names, decide on a budget. This will help you determine how many guests you can realistically afford to invite.

2. Choose a Venue with Limited Capacity

Selecting a venue that has a set capacity can naturally limit the number of guests you invite, making it easier to stick to a smaller list.

3. Create a Priority List

Divide your guest list into categories such as must-invite, would-like-to-invite, and optional. Focus on the must-invite group first.

4. Limit Plus-Ones

Consider inviting plus-ones only for guests who are married, engaged, or in a long-term relationship. This can significantly reduce your list.

5. Skip the Children

Decide to have an adults-only event. While it might be a tough decision, it can greatly reduce the number of attendees.

6. Keep It Intimate

Invite only close friends and family. This can create a more personal and meaningful celebration.

7. Eliminate Work Colleagues

Unless they are close friends outside of work, consider not inviting colleagues. This can help maintain a manageable list.

8. Reevaluate Your List

Go through your list several times. If you haven’t spoken to someone in over a year, consider removing them.

9. Send Digital Invitations

By using digital invitations, you can subtly convey the message that your wedding is a smaller, more intimate affair.

10. Avoid the "Obligation Invite"

Don’t feel pressured to invite someone just because you were invited to their wedding. Focus on who you genuinely want to celebrate with.

11. Cut Distant Relatives

If you haven't maintained a relationship with extended family, it's okay to leave them off the list.

12. Consider Separate Events

Host a smaller ceremony and a larger reception, or vice versa. This way, you can invite your closest circle to the ceremony and a larger group to the reception.

13. Limit Friends’ Partners

If your friends are not in serious relationships, consider inviting them without a plus-one.

14. Communicate with Honesty

Be open with friends and family about your decision to have a smaller wedding. Most will understand and appreciate your honesty. 

15. Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, trust your instincts when deciding whom to invite. It’s your special day, and you should be surrounded by those who truly matter to you.

By following these tips, you can create a guest list that reflects your vision for your wedding day while staying within your budget and maintaining the intimacy you desire.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning Raleigh, New Bern, Wilson, and Greenville North Carolina.

 Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning owned and operated by Certified Wedding Planner Natosha Graham

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning offers Wedding Day Management Services formerly known as Day of Wedding Coordination, Partial Wedding Planning Services, Full Service Wedding Planning Services, and Event Design Services for all your Social Events.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning caters to Weddings and Events
in Greenville North Carolina, Raleigh North Carolina, and surrounding

Eastern North Carolina Wedding locations and Worldwide.

Featured Venue: The Beaufort Hotel

This month we would like to feature on our favorite venues,

The Beaufort Hotel

The Beaufort Hotel, located at the southern point of the Outer Banks, provides a picturesque setting for destination weddings along the Crystal Coast.

The Beaufort Hotel offers the following:

- Over 100 hotel rooms for guest accommodation during your wedding

- A variety of wedding ceremony and reception location, both indoor and outdoor, onsite at the venue

- Numerous amenities included in their wedding packages such as linens, chairs, etc

- Comprehensive food and beverage packages for your cocktail hour, wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, bridal brunch, and more.

The venue also features an onsite restaurant where guests can savor a meal, with the option of indoor or outdoor seating to take in the stunning waterfront views.

If you’re looking for an amazing waterfront venue, then look no further. To schedule a tour call 252.728.3000 or email info@beauforthotelnc.com

Click here so we can help you on your special day.

Exquisite Events Wedding & Event Planning Raleigh, New Bern, Wilson, and Greenville North Carolina. Exquisite Events Wedding & Event Planning owned &operated by Certified Wedding Planner Natosha Graham

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning offers Wedding Day Management Services formerly known as Day of Wedding Coordination, Partial Wedding Planning Services, Full Service Wedding Planning Services, and Event Design Services for all your Social Events.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning caters to Weddings and Events in Greenville North Carolina, Raleigh North Carolina, and surrounding Eastern North Carolina Wedding locations and Worldwide.

5 Tips for your to help cut wedding budget

Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet financially daunting task. However, with a bit of creativity and strategic planning, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.

Here are five tips for cutting your wedding budget:

1. Prioritize Your Must-Haves: Before diving into the planning process, sit down with your partner and create a list of your top priorities. This could be anything from a specific venue, a favorite photographer, or a live band. By identifying what matters most to you, you can allocate a larger portion of your budget to these areas and find more cost-effective options for the less critical elements.

2. Trim the Guest List: One of the most effective ways to reduce costs is by limiting the number of guests. A smaller guest list means you'll spend less on catering, invitations, and even the size of the venue. Consider inviting only close family and friends and perhaps hosting a more intimate celebration. This approach not only saves money but also creates a more personal and memorable atmosphere.

3. DIY Decorations and Favors: Embrace your creative side by making your own decorations and wedding favors. DIY projects can be fun and significantly cheaper than purchasing ready-made items. From handcrafted seating charts to personalized party favors, there are countless tutorials and ideas available online to inspire you. Plus, these personal touches can add a unique charm to your wedding day.

4. Choose an Off-Peak Date: Wedding venues and vendors often charge premium prices during peak wedding seasons, such as summer and early fall. To cut costs, consider booking your wedding during the off-peak months or on a weekday. Many venues offer discounts for off-peak dates, and you'll likely find more availability and flexibility with other vendors as well.

5. Simplify the Menu: Catering can be one of the most significant expenses of a wedding. To save money, opt for a simpler menu with fewer courses, or consider a buffet-style meal instead of a plated dinner. You can also explore less traditional catering options, such as food trucks or a potluck-style reception, where guests contribute a dish. These alternatives can be more budget-friendly and add a unique twist to your celebration.

By implementing these tips, you can keep your wedding budget in check while still creating a beautiful and memorable event. Remember, the most important aspect of your wedding is the celebration of your love and commitment, and that can be achieved without overspending.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning Raleigh, New Bern, Wilson, and Greenville North Carolina. Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning owned and operated by Certified Wedding Planner Natosha Graham

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning offers Wedding Day Management Services formerly known as Day of Wedding Coordination, Partial Wedding Planning Services, Full Service Wedding Planning Services, and Event Design Services for all your Social Events.

Exquisite Events Wedding and Event Planning caters to Weddings and Events in Greenville North Carolina, Raleigh North Carolina, and surrounding Eastern North Carolina Wedding locations and Worldwide.