Before you go:

• Make a list of what you need. Wedding accessories come in all shapes and sizes, things you need and lots of things that you don't. Accessories typically used include: guest book and pen, cake knife, cake topper, toasting glasses, guest favors, wedding party gifts, and parent gifts.
• Regarding favors, consider the gift. Do you want to give something edible or a keepsake? Do your research and find ideas that you like in wedding magazines and online.

Questions to ask:

• Are the items available for purchase now or will they be ordered? If they are being shipped, ask for a delivery schedule and appropriate charges for such.
• If you are customizing any favors or accessories, ask about printing or engraving costs and turn around time.

• Many brides buy these favors and accessories weeks, sometimes months before the big day. Make sure you put everything in the same place and hand-off this box of goodies to your wedding coordinator or site coordinator to place at the reception, while you are busy getting married.
• Hold off on buying your cake knife and toasting glasses until after your bridal shower(s). These are also very popular gifts to the bride and groom.

• If your favors will be grouped in one area, like a basket by the door, you do not need to buy one for every guest. No matter how great your favor, some guests will not take theirs. Emma Grace recommends buying favors for 75 percent of the guest list if they will not be placed at each seat. If they will be part of your place setting, you will need one for every guest with a few extras as well to cover any surprises.
• If you are feeling crafty, many brides choose to create do-it-yourself favors. Whether you are making the favors themselves, like baking cookies, or creating unique and personal packaging, like monogrammed boxes, this is a great way to save and show appreciation to your guests.
• If your budget is tight, favors are not a requirement.  Most guests won't even notice that they are missing if you are able to refocus those funds on a nicer centerpiece or better plate of food.