just an observation. i went to a good friend's wedding last weekend. they are into cooking so they gave out small homemade jars of hot sauce and chutney. when we were at the table most people were trying to trade to get the hot sauce. but as well at the end of the night there were a lot of jars that weren't taken. i mean either people forgot or didn't want them. though they also left a box of mint chocolates on each table for people to help themselves. by the end of the night all the chocolate from every table was eaten. so it looked like from the 2 "favors" the chocolate was the clear winner even though i know it took them a really long time to make, can and label their sauces. just something to think about for people that are thinking about making homemade canned stuff.
Re: canned favors vs. chocolate
That said, if someone WANTS to spend a lot of time making something that has special meaning for them, and THEY will get enjoyment out of it, I see no reason to discourage that.