I still can’t believe how fast the months flew by after our wedding. I shared a recap already, but I wanted to highlight one of my favorite projects from the celebration: our welcome bags. I love assembling thoughtful gifts and little surprises, so creating these was such a joy. We partnered with Zazzle for custom canvas totes and filled them with a mix of practical items, local treats, and personal touches to welcome our guests to sunny Palm Springs.
The star of the bag was the tote itself. Lauren hand-calligraphed so many elements of our wedding, and we loved being able to include her lettering on the welcome bags as well. She provided a file and Zazzle printed it on a sturdy canvas tote that guests could reuse after the weekend. We also printed postcards featuring Jeff’s Palm Springs photos to tuck in as a personal memento.
For a late-night sweet treat, we included individual tubs of Edoughble edible cookie dough — a fun indulgence for anyone craving something after the reception desserts. Other items we packed were chosen both for convenience and to reflect the destination: koozies to keep drinks cool, a weekend guide with local recommendations, sunscreen and sunglasses for daytime excursions, and small snacks like trail mix and oranges for quick energy between events.
Bags c/o Zazzle / #MeetTheMindells Calligraphy by A Fabulous Fete
Custom postcards with Jeff’s Palm Springs photos from Zazzle
Koozies from Ban.do / Edoughble cookie dough
Weekend guides from Minted / Beach balls for pool fun
Sunglasses from Discount Mugs / Trail mix and oranges from Trader Joe’s
One of the most meaningful additions was a custom illustrated map of Palm Springs. Kate from Striped Cat Studio created a beautiful map that highlighted favorite restaurants, our rehearsal and wedding venues, and the hotels where guests were staying. The map helped guests navigate the area and discover our favorite local spots, and it doubled as a lovely keepsake.
Map photo by Studio DIY / All other photos by Katie Stoops
If your budget allows, welcome bags are a thoughtful way to thank out-of-town guests and help them enjoy the weekend. They can be tailored to your destination and priorities — practical items, snacks, party favors, or local recommendations all work well. Did you include welcome bags at your wedding? What items did you choose?
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