Favor Bags
Traditionally, favors are given for gala events as a thank-you to your guests for attending the event. Favor bags or boxes should be creative and individualized for the event. Favors are also a great way for participating companies to market products. A company may donate sample products or gift certificates for placement in the favors. Favor bags should also contain literature on the charity if applicable.
Ideas for Favor Bags
The container for the favor bag itself should showcase the charity or participating company. Ask your brand sponsor if a bag or container with a logo is an item that might be donated. If not, use your theme to create a possible container for the favors. You might suggest a Chinese takeout box for an event celebrating Chinese New Year, a lunchbox for an event benefiting a children's charity, or a popcorn bucket for a movie premiere.
Next, fill the bag with at least five items related to the event. Items in the favor bags may have longevity in your guests' home. For this reason, company placement should be offered first to the businesses involved in your gala and mentioned in your donation letter. Again, give yourself ample time to secure your favors. Approach outside companies for donations to your favor bags if necessary. Be sure the company is not in direct competition with your sponsors or donors. Be sure to research each company if you are not sure.
ssential
The gala has ended, and for some reason you are left with extra favor bags. You will likely want to show some appreciation to the staff working alongside you during the event. Giving each member of your staff a favor bag is a great token of appreciation. Extend this to members of the production teams and all of your vendors.
Delivery and Assembly of Favors
Once the favors have been determined, establish delivery with your contact. Ask your contact to place a tracking number on the packages if the product is being shipped. Give specific instructions as to the date and location of the delivery. If you will not be at the location to receive the product, be sure to alert your contact. Set up arrangements for the products to be delivered a week ahead of time to allow for any delays.
Assemble the favors ahead of time. Two days before is ideal to ensure a stress-free assembly. You will want to assemble at the venue to avoid transporting the bags. The favors should be carried out by staff members toward the end of the event for your guests to receive as they leave. Guests may feel obligated to take a favor bag if they are placed in the entryway at the start of the event. You will also run the risk of the favor bags being pillaged.
