This is one of everyone’s favorite things we did last year! I’ve been asked several times throughout the year….”hey, are you going to do another Favorite Things Party this year? That was so fun!” And yes, yes I am!
The beauty of a party like this is, we are each sharing our favorite things and everyone is ultimately introduced to new, fun, great items….our friend’s favorite things! And everyone walks away with 3 new Favorite Things gifts.
I like keeping the party fairly small, I think we had 15 ladies here. For me, it helps to keep it manageable in regards to space for product to be displayed etc. and a bit more intimate.
WHAT TO INCLUDE ON THE INVITE:
- Pro tip:: Plan and send invites early, this gives people a chance to think of their item and watch for their favorite item on Black Friday sales, etc.
- In addition to party details, I would add the concept/instructions of how the party works and make it clear, so everyone knows the expectations. Some may not have attended a favorite things party before. Or you could even send them the link to this blog post to familiarize them with the concept.
HOW THE PARTY WORKS:
Keep in mind there are many different ways to host/run one…this is how we did it.
- Set a budget for your Favorite Things Party
- Each person decides what their favorite thing is and brings (3) of that item (3 of the exact same product)
- We set a budget of $40 each item, but I’ve seen it done anywhere from $5 per item to $15, $20 etc. Do what works best for your circle of friends. And we have them bring their items UNWRAPPED. You can bring (3) $40 items, or you could package 2 items that equal $40 (3 times) in other words your favorite leave in conditioner and your favorite hair towel, packaged together to equal the budget amount. I’ll link some ideas of items brought (below) or ideas I’ve seen.
- Prior to guests arriving, I have place cards with each person’s name on it, placed around my large dining table. As they arrive we have them place their items near their place card. Some people place beautiful bows around them, etc. Then we mingle, have drinks & snacks.
WHAT TO SERVE:
- A fun/festive holiday cocktail! We served champagne and cranberry/pineapple juice mixed in a drink dispenser and used ice molds (here) filled with fresh cranberries, fresh rosemary and cranberry/pineapple juice. Placed those in a wine glass, topped off with the drink mixture. So cute & festive looking.
- Holiday themed snacks: We made a bruschetta wreath – small tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, garlic. Arranged on a round cutting board, (with balsamic and Olive oil bowl in center) and drizzled balsamic glaze and sea salt all over wreath. Along with other fun heavy hors d’oeuvres.
HOW WE DID THE GIFT EXCHANGE:
We moved the items into my living room, and had each guest briefly explain what their favorite item is and why they love it. (We love this part!)
Prior to everyone arriving I had printed off each guest’s name 3 times, put each round into a bowl and we did 3 rounds of drawing names.
Round 1 – As a person’s name was drawn, they went up and grabbed the unwrapped item of their choice, and it was theirs… No stealing. We then moved to round 2, and did the same thing…and so on.
I have seen some hosts provide bags for everyone to take their goodies home in….because you are walking away with some goodies!
IF YOU NEED SOME FAVORITE THINGS PARTY GIFT IDEAS…I’VE SHARED SOME BELOW:
Some items brought last year
- Favorite cookie recipe printed, with that dough frozen, a gold cookie sheet and cute cookie spatula
- Williams Sonoma Truffle Oil, Balsamic
- Favorite earrings
- DIME perfume
- DIBS contour stick – promo code CINDY
- Tea kettle and tea
- Coffee table book
- Quilted puffer workout bag
- Candle
Other ideas:
