Perhaps the best way to set the tone for your wedding weekend and kick-off a wonderful guest experience is by greeting your favorite people with thoughtful gifts, helpful information and some local flavor. After all hospitality starts at home right? So make your guests feel right at home with some goodies that show your gratitude for their presence at your celebration.

First things first, presentation is key. The bag, box or basket you use to display your gift should leave a lovely impression. Depending on your budget there are a myriad of gorgeous options – though you can never go wrong with a simple and easy kraft paper bag!

Next come the contents. Customization here will score you big points! Getting married downtown? Include a map of all the key points. Reception at a vineyard? A wine key or corkscrew gives a playful nod to your nuptials while also serves a practical purpose. Regardless of the details, highlights of the venue, city or state you’re either from or celebrating in (or both!) are always winners. Here are some of our favorite picks for Charlottesville and Virginia area goodies:

• Carter’s Mountain apples
• Feridies Virginia peanuts
• Gearharts chocolates
• Route 11 potato chips
• La Veche Microcreamery caramels

As with any wedding, there are classics to include in the welcome bag that will make your guests feel thought of (and bonus come in handy after a night of partying!):

• Water (still or sparkling)
• Advil or Tylenol
• Maps or brochures of the area (pro tip: check your local visitor’s bureau for a free hook up!)
• Snacks

No matter your wedding style, budget or location starting the festivities off with a little dose of warmth and hospitality goes a long way. Check out the pics below of some of our favorite welcome gifts over the years!

{Featured image by Katie Stoops Photography | Gallery images by Katie Stoops, Morgan Trinker, Stephanie Yonce, Jen Fariello}