Make your out-of-town guests feel special with personalized, practical, and locally inspired wedding welcome bags. Here's what to include to leave a lasting impression from the moment they arrive.
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, but it’s also a gathering of people who have traveled—sometimes far—to be part of your special moment. A wedding welcome bag is a small gesture that makes a big impact. It sets the tone for the weekend, helps guests feel appreciated, and provides them with thoughtful items to enhance their stay.
Whether you’re hosting a destination wedding or simply want to treat your out-of-town guests right, this guide will walk you through exactly what to include in your welcome bags—blending practicality, personalization, and a touch of local flair.
Welcome bags aren’t just about freebies—they're about hospitality. They show your guests that you’re grateful for their time and effort. It also helps them feel connected to the experience, the location, and to you as a couple.
At venues like Millhouse in Rigby, Idaho, welcome bags can be handed out at check-in, placed in hotel rooms, or arranged at the ceremony entrance. No matter the delivery method, they’re sure to be appreciated.
Start with the basics that every guest will find helpful:
Include a printed schedule of weekend events, addresses, times, and key contact numbers (like your planner or a family point person). This keeps everyone informed and reduces last-minute questions.
Keep your guests hydrated—especially if they’ve been traveling or are adjusting to the altitude. Bonus points for including a reusable bottle with your wedding logo or monogram.
Jet lag and long drives call for a little sustenance. Include both sweet and salty options such as:
Include a few essentials like:
You can also make a lighthearted "wedding recovery kit" with electrolyte packets and mini eye drops for the morning after.
These items aren’t necessary—but they take your welcome bag to the next level and create a memorable guest experience.
Write a heartfelt message thanking your guests for coming. It can be formal or fun, but should reflect your personality and excitement.
Mini lotion, lip balm, or hand cream—especially in your wedding colors or with custom labels—are thoughtful and useful additions.
Consider a small item that guests can take home and remember your day by. Examples include:
Since many guests may be visiting your wedding location for the first time, include items that highlight the charm of the area. For a wedding in Rigby, Idaho or anywhere in Southeast Idaho, some great options might be:
Support local vendors and add flavor to your bags with items like:
Include a printed or illustrated map of the area with recommendations for local restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and activities. If you’re near scenic spots like the Snake River or Yellowstone, make sure to mention those, too!
Depending on your budget, timeline, and creativity, you can sprinkle in some just-for-fun additions:
Think about what the weather or season calls for:
For family or group-filled weddings, add a fun element like:
Presentation matters! Choose packaging that fits your theme and budget:
Make sure bags are easy to carry and can sit neatly in a hotel room or at the event check-in table.
Plan for one bag per couple or hotel room. For individual guests, especially those staying alone or arriving from out of town, one bag per person may be appropriate.
Confirm your guest list details with hotels or lodging hosts in advance so you can drop off the correct number of bags.
Wedding welcome bags are a wonderful way to say “we’re so glad you’re here.” With a mix of practical items, heartfelt touches, and local flair, they help kick off your wedding weekend on a warm and thoughtful note.
Whether you're hosting your wedding at a cozy Idaho venue like Millhouse in Rigby or planning a full destination celebration, your guests will appreciate the extra effort—and remember your day long after it's over.
