The Swag Bag

You've heard the term, but what is it? Well, simply put it's a bag full of goodies ranging in size and value. Hollywood coined the phrase 'swag bag' many moons ago. When celebrities attended events, retailers 'donated' goodies to go inside gift bags in hopes that the celebrity would wear or use the product. In turn, that 'endorsement' would boost sales and make the 'donation' worth it.

But how does this relate to weddings and events? Instead of the term swag {though I often use the term around the office} it's often referred to as the 'welcome' bag. In fact, it's becoming so popular that guests have come to expect them in their rooms upon arrival.

I can't think of a single wedding where we haven't put together some sort of gift for out-of-town guests. It's been as simple as a welcome letter and a bottle of wine to the more elaborate like a Land's End bag filled with all kinds of Michigan goodies in honor of the bride and groom's roots.

But is this all necessary? To some degree, yes. It doesn't need to be elaborate but I do think it's nice to place a letter in out-of-town guest's rooms thanking them for attending your celebration. This, paired with a wonderful box of chocolate or some snack mix and bottled water, is just one more way to let your guests know how appreciative you are of their presence.

Are you planning to put together a swag bag for your out-of-town guests? If so, what are you going to put in the bag? If you're already married, what did you do for your out-of-town guests?

~Jodi
*photo credit: Crate & Barrel