Unless you get lucky and have guests that all live locally, attending a wedding can be a big commitment for your guests to make. After you add airfare, accommodations, and transportation, it sure does get a little pricey. Make sure you go out of your way to remind them all how special they are to you and that you appreciate their efforts! Not sure how to do this? Here are five ways that you can thank them for being there.

• Say it! – This might seem clear but sometimes the most obvious things are what we miss. Take a moment during your welcome to thank everyone for taking the time to be there. If you know someone went really out of their way, point it out! If that person doesn’t know very many people then it will give them something to talk about at their table.

• Anniversary Dance – This is always a favorite and helps to get the dance floor moving too! Have your DJ invite all of the married couples on the dance floor for a dance with you and your significant other. After about a minute, have him dismiss couples that have been married 1 year, 5 years, etc. You will eventually end up with the longest married couple on the dance floor! Ask them for their best marriage advice. Don’t forget to take a picture together!

• Favors – We have seen so many different types of favors at Lesner Inn but couples still surprise us with original ideas. Some of our favorites? Hand painted bottles of limoncello, succulents and jarred honey! Send your guests home with something they’ll remember.

• Give Them An Honorable Job – On the day of the wedding, there are a million things to get done. Oftentimes your guests are just as excited about your big day and want to help in any way possible. Do you need ushers or greeters still? This is a great way to make someone feel like a guest of honor.

• Hotel Welcome Bags – When your guests check in to their hotel, have a goody bag at the front desk ready and waiting for their arrival. Stuff it with coupons for local restaurants, a note from you, candy, snacks, sunscreen…anything! Guests will feel pampered immediately upon arrival.

There are so many more ways to make your guests feel special.  But just remember, the smallest thank you goes a long way.