I thought I was the only one lying awake at night wondering if I needed MOG welcome baskets. Turns out, it’s a question every MOG asks herself at some point.
If you’re in the thick of wedding planning and the topic of welcome baskets has come up, you’re not alone. It’s a detail that can easily slip through the cracks until the last minute. But don’t worry, Mama. I’ve got you.
What Are MOG Welcome Baskets?
First off, let’s define our terms. Welcome baskets are small gifts given to out-of-town wedding guests, usually placed in their hotel rooms. They’re a way to say “We’re glad you’re here!” and set a hospitable tone for the weekend.
Do You Need to Provide Them as MOG?
The short answer? It depends. Welcome baskets are a nice touch, but they’re not a requirement. Traditionally, the bride’s family handles baskets for her side and the groom’s family covers his side. But these days, more couples are opting to do welcome bags jointly. So your first step is to chat with the couple and see what their plan is.
If they’re handling welcome bags for everyone, you’re off the hook. If they’d like you to cover baskets for the groom’s VIP guests, then it’s time to start planning.
Who Gets a Basket?
So the couple has given you the green light to do welcome baskets for the groom’s side. But who makes the list? A good rule of thumb is to include:
- Immediate family (parents, siblings, grandparents)
- The wedding party and their dates
- Any out-of-town guests who are particularly close to your son
If budget allows, some MOGs opt to give a basket to every out-of-town guest on the groom’s side. But if funds are tight, it’s perfectly fine to stick to the VIPs.
What Goes in a MOG Welcome Basket?
Now for the fun part: filling those baskets! The contents can be as simple or as elaborate as you like, but most welcome baskets include:
Welcome Basket Checklist
- Snacks (chips, granola bars, fruit, chocolates)
- Drinks (water bottles, mini soda cans, juice)
- A taste of something local (regional candy, famous cookies)
- Wedding weekend agenda or welcome letter
- List of local recommendations (restaurants, coffee shops, things to do)
- Thoughtful extras (Advil, stain remover, mints, hangover kit)
Feel free to get creative and have fun with it! Personalized touches like a favorite treat or a small nod to your son’s interests will make the baskets extra memorable.
Assembling & Logistics
Give yourself plenty of time to assemble the baskets so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Recruit family members to help or make a party of it with your gal pals. Aim to have the baskets finished and delivered to the hotel(s) the day before guests arrive.
Coordinate with the hotel staff in advance so they know to expect the baskets and can help distribute them to the right rooms. Include a list of guest names and room numbers to keep things organized.
Basketing on a Budget
Welcome baskets can add up fast, but there are ways to save. Buy snacks and drinks in bulk at Costco or Sam’s Club. Hit up the dollar store for affordable containers. Skip the pricey champagne and opt for a local treat instead. Remember, it’s the thought that counts!
It’s Okay to Skip the Baskets
At the end of the day, your son and his bride will be thrilled to have their loved ones there to celebrate with them, baskets or no baskets. If welcome bags aren’t in the budget or you simply don’t have the bandwidth, give yourself permission to let them go. Your presence is the greatest present!
Here’s the truth: welcome baskets are a ‘nice to have’, not a requirement. If they bring you joy, go for it. If not, let yourself off the hook. You’re doing great, Mama.
