Favors

1000 origami cranes

I like the idea of stringing them and hanging them behind the head table. I'm undecided on doing them in different shades of yellow or all in gold. I also want to scatter some on all the tables. Or I can just fill a tall vase with them and have guests take them. Either way folding 1000 is good luck.

"Folding a crane takes time, patience and understanding. These same qualities are vital for a marriage to last. This is why the symbology of 1,000 hand-folded cranes decorating a wedding is so powerful.

The ancient practice of a man and woman folding 1,000 cranes for their wedding is called sembazuru. The tradition itself is called Tsuru wa sennen. The time and energy put into the hand-folded cranes symbolized the patience and trust necessary to sustain a happy marriage.

Color is critically important in any hand craft. Origami cranes for a wedding were selected for colors that held meaning to the couple. Sometimes the cranes would be strung on garlands to decorate the room. Some would be used as place markers or table favors.

If the bride and groom felt artistic, they could use the cranes to form a work of art. This could be a simple family crest, as many Japanese crests were circles with very basic shapes within. The artwork might also show a symbol important to the couple, such as a circle representing life, or a heart to demonstrate their love for each other."
EXCERPT FROM: http://www.lisashea.com/japan/origami/sales/history/wedding.html