In Pakistani weddings, it’s often the little details that linger in guests’ memories — the thoughtful favours, the sweet tokens exchanged as bid, and edible treats that carry a piece of the celebration home. While grand feasts take center stage, wedding favors quietly complete the story of gratitude and festivity. We spoke with Sarah Khalid– a seasoned culinary expert who once ventured into the world of wedding favours- to gather her insights, tips, and timeless advice for couples looking to make their favors both meaningful and memorable.
- Looking back at your experience creating wedding favours, what was it that drew you in most?
Honestly, it was the creativity that pulled me in. At my core, I’ve always been a creative person, and favors gave me a chance to pour that creativity into people’s biggest milestones. Weddings, engagements, nikkahs, baby showers—these are such special occasions, and being able to contribute, even in a small way, felt meaningful. Every favour wasn’t just a box or a treat—it was part of the joy being shared with love. And back then, it wasn’t something a lot of people were doing, so I felt like I had this wonderful creative freedom to try new things. That’s what made me love it so much.
- Traditionally, Pakistani wedding favor boxes contain mithai and dry fruits. How have you seen this tradition evolve in recent years?
Social media has changed everything. With more exposure, people want their events to stand out – they want something unique that makes their wedding remembered. Earlier, it was simple: mithai, dry fruits, or maybe candies. Then came customized chocolates, cookies with the couple’s names, even themed mithai that matched the wedding colors. For example, if it’s a nikkah and everyone’s wearing white, people will also give out white mithai or cookies to match.Over time, Western-inspired treats like macarons and custom cookies became popular too. I’ve even seen customized barfi in rose shapes or with metallic finishes – expensive, yes, but people happily pay for that personalization. Sometimes couples tie favors to a theme that’s special to them. Once, I worked on a walima that had doves as the central symbol, and they gave out dove-shaped cookies. Even things like saunf have been reinvented and packaged beautifully as giveaways. It’s all about being different, thoughtful, and memorable now.
- When planning favors for the bid, what types of sweets or treats work best?
Sweet is always a safe bet—it pleases almost everyone. Classics like barfi, peda, kaju katli, or laddoo never go out of style. What’s changed is the size—people now prefer bite-sized treats over large, messy portions. It’s easier to enjoy at a wedding without worrying about making a mess.
Brownie bites, chocolates, cookies, and even premium dried fruits also work really well. But in Pakistan, barfi in its many forms is still a universal favorite. It’s simple, loved by all ages, and feels celebratory without being over the top.
- What’s the most unique or memorable or wedding favor you’ve ever created?
One that stands out was for a nikkah where the couple wanted something deeply meaningful. We created wooden boxes with acrylic lids, and inside we placed a small Qur’an, a tasbih, jars of honey, dates, and zamzam. Everything in the box carried spiritual and symbolic value. Guests were genuinely touched—it wasn’t just a favor, it was something they could actually use in their daily lives. That one really stayed with me because it felt so beautiful and thoughtful.
- What are some creative packaging ideas couples can explore?
Packaging has come a long way. Back in the day, it was mostly the same card-makers supplying standard boxes or pouches with names printed on them. Now, the options are endless. You’ll find everything from woven cane baskets to acrylic boxes, glass jars, wooden trays, or imported packaging. Pinterest has also opened up the world—people see ideas from abroad and recreate them here, or even bring packaging back from their travels. Today, the range is huge, and it really depends on how elaborate or simple you want to go.
6. How can couples balance creativity with budget when it comes to favors?
Creativity doesn’t always need a big budget. In fact, some of the best ideas come from simple things. Pinterest is full of low-budget hacks—like spray-painting old jars or using dried flowers from past arrangements. If you’re willing to put in a little time and effort, you can create something beautiful without spending much. It’s not always about the price tag; it’s about thoughtfulness and presentation. So couples shouldn’t feel pressured to splurge—there’s plenty you can do even with a modest budget.
7. Are there seasonal flavors that work especially well for Pakistani weddings?
Definitely! Winters are perfect for richer flavors—think dates, honey, dry fruits, nuts, figs, and walnuts. They’re warming and feel festive. In the summer, lighter flavors work better—rose-infused cookies, floral truffles, meringues, or fruit jams. I once did little jars of jam for a spring wedding, and they felt so refreshing. Floral and fruity notes like cardamom, mint, or rose are always a hit in warmer months. So, while there isn’t a strict “rule,” tailoring favors to the season makes them more enjoyable.
8. What are some common mistakes made when choosing favors?
The biggest mistake is ignoring the season. For example, giving out chocolates or fresh brownies in the middle of summer is a recipe for disaster—they melt or spoil before they even reach guests. Shelf life is another big issue. If the favors won’t be distributed immediately, you need something more stable. Otherwise, by the time friends or relatives receive them, they might already be spoiled.
I’ve seen it happen with sweets for birth announcements too—people open them days later only to find fungus inside. It’s such a disappointment. So I’d say the key is: think about the weather, how long distribution will take, and choose something that can hold up.
9. What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding favors for the first time?
Start with your budget — don’t compare yourself to what others are doing. Some people go all out with extravagant favors, but that doesn’t mean you have to. Simple and thoughtful always works. Even a handwritten or printed note tied to each box can make it feel personal.
Also, plan around seasons and distribution. Choose items with longer shelf lives if they’ll be handed out later. If possible, involve friends and family in the process — packing favors can become a fun pre-wedding memory. And if it ever feels overwhelming, outsourcing is always an option. At the end of the day, favors should bring joy, not stress.
10. If you had to recommend one timeless favor or item that always delights guests, what would it be?
Edibles never fail — dried fruits, nuts, and dates are truly timeless in our culture. They’ve been part of traditions for generations and always bring smiles. Guests also love small, thoughtful items like candles or honey jars with wooden dippers. These aren’t trendy “for the moment” things — they’re practical and appreciated.
Customized cookies are another evergreen option. And of course, when in doubt, you can always go back to mithai — classic, familiar, and always welcomed. Timeless favors are those rooted in culture or usefulness, and those will never go out of style.
