They are definitely not necessary. If you do a favor, the general consensus is to do an edible one such as candy. (don't want to speak for everyone on the Knot though!)
Not necessary at all. I'm putting that money into the bar instead, I feel like my guests would probably prefer that and I honestly don't want anything else on my to do list! Lots of people on here did favours though, almost all the most popular ones seem to be edible. If you decide you do want to offer a favour, sweets or biscuits wouldn't add excessive costs. A girlfriend from my hometown made her own tablet (its a scottish fudge-like sweet) and wrapped them in bags, it cost very little except time.
Another vote for an edible favor, if you have one at all. Every votive candle/picture frame with the couple's initials has been the victim of me on a decluttering mission.
I wouldn't notice at all if there were no favours. However, if you do decide to do them, I would suggest making it something that adds to the overall decor, like candy in your wedding colours to add to the table arrangements or laid out in a pretty way by the cake table or something like that. At least get some extra bang for your buck.
and please, please, please don't do something with your names and wedding date on it. I have never had a use for a shot glass or coaster with someone else's wedding details on it (even from my loved ones)!
Definitely not necessary. If you do want to do something the best favors I've seen were edible (candy bar, take home cake/cupcake, popcorn) or a photo. One of my favorites was a photobooth, but it printed magnets (without any info of the couple) and you could shoes your own background. It was The first wedding H went together so we have these great magnets of us all dressed up with crazy backgrounds.
ETA: Favors work best when they are "optional" in that it's something people can do or not (eat candy, take home wine, use a photobooth) but don't feel obligated if it's sitting out at the place setting and won't be "wasted" if they don't want them.
The best thing about edible favors is that often there is someone who is happy to eat up an extra one if someone doesn't want theirs. I've enjoyed edible favors in the past, as it gives folks something to snack on while waiting for the meal.
Re: Are favors necessary?
Every votive candle/picture frame with the couple's initials has been the victim of me on a decluttering mission.
ETA: Favors work best when they are "optional" in that it's something people can do or not (eat candy, take home wine, use a photobooth) but don't feel obligated if it's sitting out at the place setting and won't be "wasted" if they don't want them.
The best thing about edible favors is that often there is someone who is happy to eat up an extra one if someone doesn't want theirs. I've enjoyed edible favors in the past, as it gives folks something to snack on while waiting for the meal.