Hosting a wedding in New York City can be an exciting and creative affair. The city has so much to offer: from rooftop weddings overlooking the Hudson to more intimate affairs in a hotel library or Central Park. With an infinite number of venues, caterers, planners, and designers, the opportunities are endless.
There is also the fear for some that it has been done before. If you choose the Big City for your wedding, there are many ways to make it unique and personal despite New York’s enormity. Specially curated wedding favors have been highlights of the occasion for celebrities, and what better way to showcase the emerging local culture, and stay away from the kitschy, touristy trumps than by gifting local New York products. Here’s a list of perfect favors to give your guests, something they’ll actually want to keep.
1. Edibles.
I was inspired by Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz’s adorable sugar cookie gifts: Perfect for any season and able to match any theme. When in New York, I suggest Eleni’s cookies. Founder and Baker in Chief Eleni began in media and editorials, but, realizing her passion for baking, switched careers and I’m so glad she did. Since 1997, she’s been creating personalized treats available locally and nationwide.
For another sweet treat, check out Anarchy Jams in Brooklyn. Anarchy produces eight varieties of fresh, local spreadable edibles using old and new techniques. Founder and CEO Laena McCarthy grew up making traditional jams with her family in New York’s Hudson Valley. And of course, it wouldn’t be summer in New York without Sigmund’s Pretzels, a New York institution at bars and late night scenes. Opened in 2009 in the East Village, they expanded in later years to a wholesale bakery, now found across the city at various venues. Get one kind or a variety and package them with a cute tag.
2. Cultural Fancies.
Jason Priestley and Naomi Lowde gifted Fortnum & Mason teas to exhibit her family’s English heritage. For gifts from local artists and craftsmen, I suggest checking out A Wincy Glass ’N Design based in Westbury, New York. Artist and owner Wincilla Edwards was propelled into the industry by her life-long love of drawing and painting, and her hand-painted champagne and wine glasses are a classy gift.
Similarly, Riles & Co. based in the East Village, NYC, creates hand-poured, all-natural soy candles with a vintage flair. Started in January 2014, by Cristina Toff, these candles make adorable gifts. A happy alternative? TheLittleRagamuffin’s Cold Process Custom Soaps, based in Altamont, New York. All of their soaps are made the old fashioned way using the cold process method and a combination of natural and organic vegetable oils as well as organic herbs from their farm. With customizable (and oh-so-sweet) labels, you can get a bit creative as well.
Lastly, I’d suggest checking out Matchbox Wedding Favors from TeaandBecky. Their personalized wedding favor matchboxes are beautifully foil stamped with a phrase and are double sided with the bride and groom’s names and wedding date. Customizable to your own wedding colors, there are many options to choose from.