There are several South African culture-inspired wedding favors couples can give their guests as a thank-you gift. Details explored.
South Africa, often referred to as the Rainbow Nation, is a land of diverse cultures, rich traditions, and stunning landscapes. The latter is one reason the country is one of the best destinations for weddings and tourism.
Some of the most popular destinations travelers visit include several national parks, such as the expansive Kruger National Park in the north of the country, the coastlines and beaches of the KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape provinces, and major cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban.
SA has a large record of multicultural marriage ceremonies due to its rich culture and traditions, the loving nature of its citizens, and its beautiful, serene locations. The aforementioned locations in the country are mostly the best venues for wedding ceremonies.
Not gonna lie! Wedding planning is generally a hell of a headache for couples. There are millions of couples who experienced challenges during their time. The entire process can be a long and complicated affair.
While planning the big things, like catering and entertainment, sometimes the smaller details can get forgotten about or left until the last minute. Wedding favors are one of the less-talked-about parts of wedding planning and can easily be overlooked or disregarded as unimportant. But handing out favours is a lovely gesture for your guests and a well-known tradition that can help to elevate the tone of your celebration.
What are Favours in a wedding? Wedding favours, according to Hitched UK, are small gifts given by the couple to their guests as a token of gratitude for attending. For centuries sugared almonds were given as a thank-you, but in more recent times, they’ve fallen out of favour. Traditionally, you’ll leave your little gift on the place setting for each person at their table.
Infusing your wedding with unique favors inspired by South African culture is a wonderful way to celebrate this diversity and create lasting memories for your guests. In this article, JanaTribe will explore creative ideas for wedding favors that reflect the vibrancy and uniqueness of South African traditions.
What’s the History of Wedding Favors?
While favours in weddings are the least talked-about wedding planning process online, among most today’s couples, the custom dates back centuries.
According to Brideandgroomdirect, one of the first references to a wedding favour can be found in 16th-century England. As a favour and to symbolise their love connection, couples would often give love knots made of lace and ribbon to each of their guests.
Why is it called a wedding favour? The very first wedding favours were known as ‘bonbonnieres’ and were gifts given to guests as they are today. It contained a little trinket box composed of crystal, porcelain, and/or precious stones and was popular among the European nobility. Sugar cubes or delicate confections were commonly found inside these boxes, which symbolised wealth and grandeur. The meaning behind a wedding favour is that it is a symbol of good luck, per Clear Well Castle.
Back in those days, a wedding was seen as a lucky occasion. The couple believed that by giving bonbonnieres and other goodies to wedding guests, they were also imparting their good fortune on others. These blessed gifts typically consisted of five almonds or candy pieces, which indicated fertility, wellness, riches, contentment, and longevity.
Today, favours are still a popular tradition at most modern weddings. Wedding favours are varied and usually match the event’s motif or season. Traditional favours include individual chocolates, candles, and various other knickknacks. CDs featuring the bride and groom’s favourite music, shot glasses filled with colored sweets, or a charitable donation in their guests’ names are also popular modern present ideas.
Are Wedding Favours Necessary?
The distribution of wedding favours is a tradition that has continually been passed down through generations. Of course, they’re not a necessity, but they’re certainly a nice gesture for your guests and make for some great pictures and memories.
Aside from being an important wedding tradition, wedding favours also serve two purposes:
- to thank your guests for celebrating your special day with you,
- to leave a lasting impression that will keep them thinking of you for years to come.
Favours also serve as a memento of your wedding. Many guests like to keep their wedding favour (or the favour box that it came in) as a keepsake afterward. You can add them to each guest’s goodie bags, place them on your dining tables next to each guest’s place card, or set up a special table near the entrance of your reception for guests to pick out their own.
15 South African Wedding Favours Ideas
Anything goes when it comes to wedding favours. While most Western countries offer wedding favours based on the theme of the wedding or the couple’s lifestyle, many other countries have customary favours.
In a culturally infused country like South Africa, favours ideas vary, and some of them are discussed below:
1. Traditional Beadwork Keychains
Beadwork holds immense cultural significance in South Africa, with different tribes using beads to convey messages and tell stories. Create personalized keychains adorned with vibrant beads, each color and pattern telling a unique tale. These keychains not only make for beautiful and meaningful favors but also serve as a token of the diverse beadwork traditions across the nation.
2. Indigenous Seed Packets
Celebrate the beauty of South African flora by gifting your guests indigenous seed packets. Choose seeds from plants like proteas, South Africa’s national flower, or other native blooms. Attach a small note explaining the significance of the chosen plant, symbolizing growth, resilience, and the beauty of diversity, much like the journey of marriage.
3. Customized Shweshwe Fabric Pouches
Shweshwe fabric, characterized by its intricate geometric patterns and vibrant colors, is a staple in South African fashion. Create customized fabric pouches using shweshwe material and fill them with small treats like chocolates, cookies, or even indigenous teas. These pouches not only showcase the beauty of South African design but also provide a practical and reusable favor for your guests.
4. African Spice Sets
South African cuisine is renowned for its flavorful and aromatic spices. Curate a unique spice set by packaging a selection of traditional spices like peri-peri, boerewors, or Cape Malay curry blends. Include recipe cards featuring popular South African dishes to inspire your guests to recreate the culinary delights in their own homes.
5. Personalized African Animal Figurines
Incorporate the rich wildlife of South Africa into your wedding favors by gifting personalized African animal figurines. Whether it’s a lion, elephant, or giraffe, these figurines symbolize strength, wisdom, and grace—qualities that resonate with the journey of marriage. Add a personal touch by engraving the couple’s names and wedding dates on each figurine.
6. Handwoven Nguni Cowhide Coasters
Nguni cattle, native to South Africa, have hides with unique patterns and colors. Gift your guests handwoven Nguni cowhide coasters, showcasing the beauty of these indigenous animals. These coasters not only add a touch of African elegance to any home but also serve as a reminder of the diverse fauna found in the region.
7. African-Inspired Candles
Craft candles inspired by South African patterns and colors. Consider incorporating tribal motifs or using the colors of the South African flag. Scent the candles with fragrances reminiscent of the country’s diverse landscapes, from the floral notes of the Cape to the earthy scents of the savannah.
8. Safari Adventure Scratch-Off Cards
Take your guests on a virtual safari adventure with scratch-off cards. Each card reveals a fun fact about South African wildlife or culture when scratched. Include a map showcasing famous landmarks or wildlife reserves, adding an element of exploration and discovery to your wedding favors.
9. African Marula Oil Skincare Sets
Marula oil, derived from the fruit of the marula tree, is known for its nourishing properties. Create skincare sets featuring African marula oil-infused products such as lip balm, lotion, or soap. These favors not only showcase the beauty of indigenous ingredients but also provide your guests with a touch of luxury inspired by South African nature.
10. Ceramic Elephant Planters
Elephants hold special significance in South African culture, symbolizing strength and wisdom. Gift your guests small ceramic elephant planters with succulents or indigenous plants. These adorable planters not only serve as unique favors but also represent the couple’s growth and longevity, much like the mighty elephant.
11. Traditional Zulu Basket Weaving Kits
Zulu basket weaving is a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations. Provide your guests with DIY basket weaving kits, including colorful threads and instructions. This interactive favor not only showcases the artistry of Zulu craftsmanship but also allows your guests to create their piece of South African-inspired art.
12. Biltong and Wine Pairing Sets
Biltong, a type of cured and dried meat, is a popular South African snack. Pair small biltong packages with mini bottles of South African wine for a delightful tasting experience. Include a guide on how to pair different types of biltong with specific wines, allowing your guests to savor the flavors of South Africa in the comfort of their homes.
13. African Print Fabric Napkin Rings
Add a touch of South African flair to your guests’ table settings with African print fabric napkin rings. Choose fabrics with bold patterns and vibrant colors that resonate with traditional African designs. These napkin rings not only serve as practical favors but also enhance the overall aesthetic of your guests’ dining experiences.
14. Traditional Rooibos Tea Blends
Rooibos tea, native to South Africa, is known for its distinct flavor and health benefits. Create personalized tea blends by combining rooibos with complementary ingredients like citrus, herbs, or spices. Package the blends in stylish containers with custom labels, offering your guests a taste of South African hospitality to enjoy at their leisure.
15. Hand-Painted Wine Glasses
Celebrate the joy of toasting with hand-painted wine glasses featuring South African motifs. Choose designs inspired by tribal patterns, wildlife, or the country’s stunning landscapes. These personalized wine glasses not only serve as memorable favors but also add a touch of artistic elegance to your guests’ drinkware collection.
Conclusion:
Choosing wedding favors inspired by South African culture is a delightful way to share the richness and diversity of this beautiful nation with your guests. Whether it’s traditional beadwork, indigenous spices, or wildlife-inspired figurines, each favor tells a story and contributes to the unique tapestry of your wedding celebration. By incorporating these creative and meaningful ideas, you not only express gratitude to your guests but also create lasting memories of a wedding infused with the spirit of South Africa.
