When I visited the One&Only Palmilla recently (in Los Cabos, Mexico), we were given a lovely little favor at our place settings during dinner one evening and I loved the idea so much, that I wanted to share it with you! What was it? Individual wooden animals which are known as Alebrije, handcrafted and painted by a local Mexican artist. Love! Better yet, each place setting was adorned with a different animal, giving us something to talk about as everyone at the table got to know each other (perfect ice breaker for a wedding reception). Have you ever seen Couples Retreat? Okay, I admit, I have. Take a cue from Vince Vaughn and his cast of characters and give each guest an animal you think reflects them and their spirit the most! Or give each guest the same item to reflect the location in which you wed. Shop local, support the artists in that area, and that little new friend atop a folded napkin will become a paperweight or deskside keepsake for everyone in attendance once they return home.
I found a few fun friends online too. But don’t be afraid to ask your local wedding vendors if they know any artists in town who sell goods like this and make the purchase that much more meaningful to your event. Over on Etsy (a great place to find artisan wares), I stumbled upon TheClayPony, a cute and love-themed collection of little animal spirits for all your shower or wedding guests.
This collection ranges from crafty necklaces for maids or flower girls to perfect embellishments to a place setting at a destination wedding. See all the designer, Le Animale has in their studio on Etsy.
There are so many wonderful options when you shop with artists, who knows, you may even have something custom made just for your big day!
