While favors are an unnecessary expense, welcome bags for out-of-town guests are not. Don’t skimp with a bottle of water and a bag of peanuts. (Are you really going to give them what they just had on the plane?). Also, “include a list of places that are significant to you—the restaurant where you had your first date, where he proposed, your favorite bookstore,” says planner Soraya Jollon. If you’ve run out of time for such customization, co-opt these ideas.
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE
An elegant little black book to jot notes in, with inconspicuous city maps inside, so they don’t look like tourists (NYC Moleskine, $17.95 at the Conran Shop; 212-755-9079).
HOLD THE STINKY CHEESE
Locally made Z Crackers, from everyone’s favorite cheese store, won’t overperfume the room or ruin your guests’ pre-wedding diets ($4.99 at Murray’s Cheese; 212-243-3289).
ESPECIALLY FOR FIRST-TIMERS
A prepaid ticket to the city’s major museums, the Empire State Building, and the Circle Line (CityPass, $65 at the Museum of Modern Art; 212-708-9400).
CHEAPER THAN THE MINIBAR
Miniature cans of bubbly with straws for fast consumption while getting ready in the hotel room (Sofia Mini, $4.99 for four at Winfield-Flynn; 212-679-4455).
2 A.M. SNACK
Maybe not okay for rock purists, but perfect for tourists. Tastier than the hotel chocolates they leave on the pillow, too (CBGB truffles, $25 at Chocolate Bar; 212-366-1541).
NOT FOR THE KIDS
Fun souvenirs of the city—and practical, should the party continue after the after-party (NYC condoms, free at Kenneth Cole; 212-965-0283).