7 Things to Include in Your Wedding Welcome Bags

Wedding welcome bags are the perfect way to greet your guests and set the tone for your big day. Whether you’re hosting a destination wedding, in Tampa a weekend long celebration, or simply want to add a thoughtful touch for your loved ones, these curated bags offer a warm and personal welcome. As a Tampa wedding photographer, I’ve seen countless couples include unique, fun, and practical items in their welcome bags that leave a lasting impression. Here’s a guide to the must haves, along with creative ideas to make your welcome bags memorable and meaningful.

1. The Essentials

Start by including practical items that your guests will find useful throughout the wedding weekend:

A Schedule of Events: Include key details such as the ceremony and reception times, locations, and any other planned activities.
Contact Information: Provide a phone number or email in case guests have questions or need assistance.
A Map: If your wedding involves multiple venues, a map with directions can be a lifesaver.

2. Local Tampa Treats

Showcase your wedding location with locally sourced goodies. For a Tampa wedding, you could include:

Miniature Bottles of Florida Orange Juice: A refreshing nod to the Sunshine State.
Saltwater Taffy: A classic treat from nearby coastal areas.
Cuban-Inspired Snacks: Think plantain chips or small packs of Cuban coffee for a taste of Tampa’s rich culture.

3. Refreshments

After traveling, to Tampa your guests will appreciate some snacks and beverages. Consider including:

Bottled Water: Personalize it with custom labels for a polished look.
Snacks: Packaged treats like granola bars, trail mix, or crackers are convenient and non-perishable.
A Sweet Treat: Chocolate-covered almonds, cookies, or a small pastry add a touch of indulgence.

4. A Personal Touch

Make your welcome bags feel extra special with personalized items:

A Handwritten Note: Thank your guests for celebrating with you and share how much their presence means.
Custom Items: Include monogrammed keepsakes like coasters, luggage tags, or tote bags with your wedding date.

5. A Tampa Survival Kit

Help your guests enjoy their time in Tampa with these thoughtful additions:

Sunscreen: A must for Florida’s sunny weather.
Bug Spray or Wipes: Especially useful for outdoor venues near water.
Flip-Flops: Perfect for beach weddings or dancing the night away.
Personalized Water Bottles: Especially for friends that are not use to the Tampa heat and humdity!

6. Wedding-Themed Goodies

Add a few fun, wedding-specific items to get everyone in the celebratory mood:

Mini Champagne Bottles: A bubbly way to toast your upcoming nuptials.
Custom Cookies: Decorate them with your names, wedding date, or a theme that matches your décor.
Photo Props: Small items like sunglasses or flower crowns encourage guests to take playful photos, which your Tampa wedding photographer will love capturing!

7. Entertainment and Extras

Keep guests entertained during downtime with thoughtful extras:

Itinerary for Local Attractions: Recommend must-see spots in Tampa, like the Riverwalk, Busch Gardens, or Ybor City.
Puzzle Books or Playing Cards: Great for guests relaxing in their hotel rooms.
Spotify Playlist: Share a QR code linking to a playlist of your favorite songs to get guests excited for the celebration.

Packaging Tips

The presentation of your welcome bags can make them even more special. Consider these ideas:

Use tote bags, gift boxes, or woven baskets for an elegant touch.
Add a personalized tag or ribbon that matches your wedding colors.
Include tissue paper or crinkle filler for a polished, professional look.

Why Welcome Bags Matter

Welcome bags are more than just a collection of items—they’re a way to show your guests how much you appreciate them. By including thoughtful, useful, and personalized touches, you’ll create a warm and inviting experience that sets the stage for a memorable wedding weekend here. in Tampa!

Capture Every Moment with a Tampa Wedding Photographer

From the welcome bags to the final send-off, I’ll capture every detail and emotion of your special day. Let’s connect and make your wedding memories timeless with stunning photographs that tell your love story!