Choosing a unique wedding favor can be daunting. As bride and groom, you want to offer guests something they’ll either keep as a remembrance, or use and enjoy, and there are so many – almost too many – wonderful options out there. One idea we find charming is to create a personalized signature tea. Blend together in sachets, or pair with a mug or teacup.

With a special blend of fine tea you select and mix yourself, paired with a teacup or mug and perhaps a heart-shaped steeper, you’ll leave your guests with something they can enjoy and relax with after their journeys back home. You might choose to engrave or monogram the mugs, or to simply pick a design that reflects your taste or compliments your wedding’s theme. Either way, the memento serves as a nice, practical keepsake, and the scent of lavender or spices from your unique tea blend will bring the day to mind for years to come, for you and your guests.

To create your personalized tea, stop by your local co-op or health food store. Most will have loose teas sold in bulk that you can mix and match depending on your taste. Feel free to start with one of the recipes below and add or modify flavors based on your preferences.

Here are some mixtures we recommend:

Purple Mist. This blend of lavender, green oolong, and jasmine pearls is an aromatic delight. The fresh, springtime quality of the lavender and jasmine blends perfectly with the earthier green tea. The result is smooth, fragrant, and perfect with a dollop of honey.

Red Chai. Great for fall and winter, this chai is made with red rooibos, a smooth, refreshing African tea that is naturally caffeine-free. Combined with cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, this is the perfect tea for a relaxing night by the fire.

Floral Bouquet. Just as the name implies, this is an all-flower blend that makes for a refreshing spring or summer brew. Made with chamomile, lavender, rose, and jasmine flowers, this mixture offers a light and complex taste, and a scent that is sweetly soothing.

Can’t decide on the perfect blend? Invite your bridesmaids over for a tasting to help you choose. (Aren’t we all overdue for a tea party with our best friends?) Once you’ve decided, simply pour your blend into small, individual satchels, which can be found in any craft supply store, and start looking for the perfect teacups!

— Story and photos by Elizabeth R. Davidson