That the global economy is in a tailspin is no secret. Neither is the fact that we have to continue living and partaking in our normal activities. But how do we go about them if we do are not able to swim against the financial tide? The answer lies in being modest but classy at the same time. This is more so relevant if your worry is your upcoming wedding and you have wedding favors to give. Wedding favors are a timeless tradition borrowed from 16th century Europe. The nobility and aristocracy of ancient Christendom had gifts presented to guests attending their reception parties after their wedding ceremonies.

In line with this culturally rich tradition, it has become an integral part of our wedding rituals even though we might not be aware of this tradition. Therefore you have no way of avoiding wedding favors whether there is an economic crunch or not. The most important thing in wedding planning is budgeting. And in your budgeting you have to incorporate all the aspects of the ceremony which includes wedding favors. According to your financial projections, just make sure you apportion enough wedding favor gifts depending on the number of guests you plan on inviting. But do not overstretch your financial muscle. Make do with what you have but make it memorable.

There are a lot of cost-effective wedding gifts that you can choose from to enchant your guests and convey gratitude and appreciation for their attendance. And if you can not make the grand ceremony that you have always envisioned, do not stress about it. Cut on costs and avoid unnecessary luxuries like multiple stretch limos just for that ego-stroking photo. That way you are left with enough to at least have something to get those gift favors for your guests. And again cut on the number of guests that you want to attend your ceremony and/or reception. Invite only the guests that you have to and no more. This will greatly cut on what you will spend to feed them and of course, you guessed it right, give wedding favors to.

Examples of low cost gifts that you can opt to go for include picture frames, place card holders or even wine bottle stoppers. These are cheap but symbolic and meaningful if you take them as a choice. In line with reducing the number of people and consequently expenses, have just an adequate number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. Also find a venue that is not too pricey and if possible hold both the wedding ceremony and the reception at the same venue, to cut on the cost of moving from one place to the other.

Some programs in the ceremony itinerary are not that essential so you can scale down on that as well. The economic downturn has spared no one so don’t worry about what people will think of your modest style. After all even multinational companies are not immune even with millions of dollars at their disposal. And if such big companies have to scale down, what about you? Of utmost important in a wedding ceremony is the genuineness, warmth and passion that you put into it. Wedding favors however modest will be appreciated if you give them with a touch of warmth and from the bottom of your heart.