Let's be honest: the mini candle nobody lights, the shot glass that lives in a junk drawer — we've all seen the sad favor table at the end of the night. It's not that guests are ungrateful; it's that favors are so often chosen for how they look on a table, not for what happens after the party ends.
At the Sustainable Events Collective, we think you can have both. We want beautiful events…and a “sustainably ever after.” Favors should feel like a genuine thank-you, and nothing says that quite like something edible, useful, and made by hand. That's exactly what you get from two of our favorite Collective members — Keep It Savory Salt Co. and Katherine Anne Confections — and why we love recommending them to every couple and event planner who wants their send-off gift to actually get used.
Why "usable" is always “sustainable.”
A favor's job isn't to merely survive the car ride home looking pretty — it's to remind guests of a great night every time they use it. A jar of finishing salt on the spice rack, a caramel shared with a coworker the next day: these are the favors that keep your wedding or event alive in someone's memory (and kitchen!) for months, not tossed the moment the Uber pulls up.
That's why we point our couples and event planners toward small-batch, consumable favors from local Chicago makers. They're sustainable, memorable, and nobody needs convincing to take one home.
Meet Keep It Savory Salt Co.
Founder (and salty maven) Jo has been hand-curing sea salts with fresh, local ingredients on Chicago's West Side since 2013. Every jar is slow-cured, never rushed, and sourced from growers and vendors working to increase food access in Chicago’s disinvested neighborhoods — literally rooted in community.
What makes it a favorite for brides and planners alike:
Truly customizable. Wedding, shower, milestone birthday, or corporate event — labels, packaging, and presentation can all reflect your colors and story.
Three jar options, so you can match the size and style to your headcount and aesthetic.
Bespoke flavors. Want something that nods to your engagement trip or grandmother's recipe? Keep It Savory can create a custom flavor just for your day.
One vendor, endless flexibility — a favor guests will genuinely use long after the last dance.
meet Katherine Anne Confections
Founded by chocolatier Katherine, this Collective member has been crafting local-focused sweets since 2006. Specializing in seasonal truffles, caramels, and marshmallows, Katherine Anne Confections brings that same handmade care to hot chocolate bars and s’more toasting activations. With flavor combinations that feel just as thoughtful as every other detail of your perfect event, it’s a treat guests will enjoy right away, rather than one that lingers on the shelf. Even better, Katherine Anne Confections has been a true community member in Chicago’s Logan Square and Irving Park neighborhoods and is a founding member of the Sustainable Events Collective.
What makes it a favorite for brides, grooms, and planners alike:
So many options to choose from. Gorgeous truffles, decadent caramels, truly unique homemade marshmallow flavors!
Simple, yet elegant packaging. One, two, or four-piece boxes can be completely customized with colors, monograms, and satin ribbons to ensure your guests are sure to feel your gratitude.
A Chicago staple since 2006. Perfect for those out-of-town guests who want to experience a little of the “real” Chicago.
PRO-TIP: Pair a jar of Keep It Savory salts with a Katherine Anne salted caramel truffle for an easy, curated "sweet and savory" send-off.
Why It Matters
Every Collective vendor is vetted for responsible, local sourcing — and booking three or more unlocks our Green Circle perks, including a tree planted in your name and gift certificate to an SEC member restaurant.
At the end of the day, a great favor makes a guest smile weeks later when they rediscover it. That's why we keep sending brides, grooms, and planners straight to Keep It Savory Salt Co. and Katherine Anne Confections.
Ready to build your party favor lineup?
Reach out to johanna@keepitsavory.com or katherine@katherine-anne.com today!
