A wedding can be a complicated process. If you're looking into making your wedding favors yourself'either to save costs or to provide a very personal touch to your wedding'the most important thing to remember is simplicity. Making your own favors can quickly turn into a hassle if your materials cost more than store-bought favors would, or if the process is too difficult or complex. Here are a few ideas for simple, inexpensive favors that should impress your guests on your wedding day.

Handmade birdseed bags. Bags of rice are the oldest wedding favors'and guests traditionally threw the rice at the bride and groom at the end of the wedding. However, dried rice was discovered to be unhealthy for birds, and the rice-throwing tradition has since died out. Today, birdseed has become a popular rice alternative.

A handmade birdseed bag doesn't have to involve any sewing. Cut a square of pretty fabric or paper, and put a small amount of birdseed in the middle. Tie up the ends of the square with a rubber band and cover it with a pretty ribbon, and you have a lovely favor to give your guests.

Edible treats. Candy is a popular favor, especially when it comes in a pretty bag or a hand-decorated box. Put a small amount of candy in the center of a square of fine-mesh tulle, and tie up the ends with a ribbon. Finish off the look with a 'thank you' tag for a perfect little favor. Traditional candy choices include chocolate covered almonds'used as far back as ancient Rome to symbolize the bittersweet nature of a marriage commitment'as well as mints, heart-shaped candies, peppermints, and Hershey kisses.

Hand-painted ornaments. No matter what time of year your wedding falls under, you can create a hand-painted decoration that will fit your theme. Handmade holiday ornaments are perfect gifts for weddings that occur around Christmastime. Make adorable Valentine's Day baskets for your guests at a February wedding, including heart-shaped candies, rose decorations, and handmade Valentine's Day cards made from construction paper. Hand-painted shells or bottles filled with colorful sand are perfect summer gifts.

Bookmarks. If you love literature, bookmarks are an ideal favor. Design a unique bookmark with beautiful designs or a picture of the bride and groom, a literary quote, the date of the wedding, or a message for the guests. They can also be embellished with ribbons, sparkles, and other decorations to make a memorable and useful favor.

Magnets. Blank magnets are available at low prices from most craft stores. Creative decorations include pictures of the bride and groom, pretty stones, colorful buttons, and flat wooden bases that can be painted to match your wedding colors.

Your wedding should be a unique expression of your personal style. Handmade wedding favors accentuate that style just as well as'and sometimes better than'store-bought favors. If you're looking to save money and give your guests favors with a truly personal touch, handmade favors might just be the best choice for you.