The custom of giving Favours started in Italy during the eighth century, the first Favours being given at weddings by the aristocracy. Both the boxes and contents were extremely elaborate and expensive.
Later, the tradition of giving Favours became more widespread and was adopted by all levels of society. In addition to weddings, Favours were also given on anniversaries and engagements, as well as at Christenings and to commemorate the birth itself. During the reign of the Russians Czars, the christening of the Imperial children was celebrated by giving relatives and friends specially designed golden Favours.
In the UK, Favours are currently only given at weddings, but here, in Belgium, Favours have been used to celebrate the birth of a baby for hundreds of years. Most villages and towns have their own Favour shop with a wide variety of styles and display to choose from. They are given to friends, family, colleagues and neighbours as a token of thanks for the safe arrival of the new baby and to mark its arrival in to the world. An average family will distribute about 150 Favours!
Although the Favours are less ostentatious these days , the thoughts behind them remain the same They may seem small but they have a long history and tradition behind them , and add pleasure and joy to any celebration.