So my fiance and I are going out of state (Colorado) for a destination type wedding/elopement this summer. A traditional style wedding wasn't us, and I really wasn't looking forward to the cost of a full-on wedding or for the stress (our budget is kinda small). But we've decided to invite our immediate families (9 family members) who would all be flying in from out of state as well to celebrate the ceremony and a dinner reception.
We're foregoing a lot of "traditional" wedding aspects (invites, programs, decor, band/dj, catering/venue, best man or maid of honor, theme or colors, etc), but still wonder if we should get our 'guests' (moms, dads, brothers and sisters with spouses) some kind of wedding favor or gift?
There's no wedding party, so no one is spending time or money on a bridal shower, reception, bachelorette party, dress/shoes/makeup/accessories, etc. so in my mind traditional "bridal party" gifts or groomsmen gifts seem unnecessary, but a wedding favor type gift seems too small and trivial to give to our family members.
I don't want to 'break the bank' so to speak, but I also don't want to be rude and not respect their financial contribution in flying out to Colorado and staying at a hotel. I also have to keep in mind that since everyone is flying in, the gifts have to be carry-on appropriate (nothing that is liquid, breakable, larger, considered a weapon, etc) and ideally nothing alcohol related...
I have a few ideas, but I keep getting lost and stressed over it.
Any advice or thoughts would be helpful!
Thank you!
