I’ve been wanting to make bags for our out of town guests for a while now. And then I found these cheap tote bags from, where else? Cheap Totes. And at 89 cents each? I think I can handle that. Then I saw that you can use a stamp to decorate them, a la Mrs. Mascara.
I know a lot of couples tend to use their initials or monogram, but I think our guests would prefer something that they feel more comfortable reusing.
As for what to fill them with, I’m still trying to decide. But I’m definitely leaning towards Texas-themed items because most of the people coming in from out of town aren’t from Texas. I also want to include food, because I know how much it sucks to be in your hotel room starving with no options, except for the overpriced mini bar.
I’m thinking of also adding beef jerky (even though I’m vegetarian, it’s very Texas, and not everyone else avoids meat).
And maybe peanuts (spicy, lime, or regular):
Maybe we’ll include something sweet, although I can’t think of a Texas candy.
What would you all want in your bags?
Love the idea of local flavor in the bag…way better then some vending machine goodies
We’re also incorporating “Texas” items in our OOT bags. We want to include Dr. Pepper and maybe Shiner Bock. I also saw cute 100 calorie packs of Texas shaped crackers at HEB which would be a cute Texas snack.
Mmm, beef jerky and spicy or lime peanuts. Yum! If you’re going for Texas things, how about a Dr. Pepper? The only sweets I can think of that are “Texan” are pralines, which I don’t think a lot of people like.
Also, I would include map or something about the local attractions. I don’t know how long your guest will be in town but having an idea what there is to do in town is nice for out of town guest.
Tex Mex? Chips and salsa/dip for snacking? Maybe a list of all of the local bars and 24 hour restaurants that are only in Texas
@texasmeredith: So cute! I haven’t seen that!
@crebre80: I love the idea of texas only bars and restaurants! Thanks
!@Mrs. Mouse: I thought about those but was worried about people not liking them. I love them though. 
@Carebear0613: Definitely need to include a map, thanks!
Yum! I think you’re on the right track! Something salty, something sweet, and water!
mmm an area hot sauce or BBQ sauce? although I guess that’s more of a favor/gift. Fudge? You could get some from an area shop.
When I was going to school out of state, I always brought back Lamme’s longhorns in the little two-pack as thank you presents for people kind enough to give me rides to the airport. You can order them online in bulk, I’m pretty sure. And now that it’s finally cooling down here in Texas, you don’t have to worry about shipping them!
I would add some cute lip balm for the ladies (who doesn’t love lip balm?). Also, make sure no one has peanut allergies!
Snickerdoodles? Those feel kind of Texasy to me, but maybe I am making that up.
Those are so cute and such a great gift. My friend received one at a wedding and still uses it all the time- so I think it’s a great idea not to use a monogram. I love your idea of beef jerky too
I like the idea of the flavored peanuts, maybe you can include a sample of each? I don’t know much about Texas, so I can’t offer advice on sweets, but best of luck!!
P.S. We thought about BBQ sauce too, but then nixed it. We figure people are only flying in for the weekend so they will probably carry their suitcase on the plane. And BBQ sauce for sure violate the TSA liquids rules.
I used Cheap Totes too! But instead of stamps, I printed an image onto iron-on paper. And I agree about not using a monogram. We did a location themed image.
http://boards.weddingbee.com/topic/oot-bags-9
What about chocolate covered pecans for your Texas sweet?!
Water, for sure. Oooo, love the idea for BBQ sauce!
Mrs. Frozen Yogurt, Dallas Age and Occupation: 28, Special Projects Coordinator Fiance's Age and Occupation: 26, Equity Trader Engagement Date: March 19, 2009 Wedding Date: April 2010 Venue: Marie Gabrielle, Dallas About Me: I was born and raised in Texas, and have lived in several of the cities across the state, but I currently reside in Austin. I went to college in Boston and have a special place in my heart for the Northeast. I love reading, shopping, wine, reuniting with college friends that are scattered across the country, reality TV, trying out new recipes, and attempting all the DIY projects that come along with wedding planning. I'm a "bleeding heart, save the world type" and thankfully my job allows me to work on legislation and policy to help out those in need. I met Mr. Frozen Yogurt in a bar, though he doesn't even drink! And now we are planning a modern yet vintage wedding in Dallas while dealing with the trials and tribulations of first time homeownership.
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