As someone who's thrown hundreds of parties, I know that the little details can make a big difference.
Today, we're talking about DIY party favors – those special little gifts that make your guests feel appreciated and leave a lasting impression.
In this article, you'll discover:
- How to create personalized mini succulent gardens
- The secret to crafting the perfect homemade cookie mix jar
- Why custom photo coasters are a hit with guests
- How to make scented candles that double as decor
- The charm of DIY bath bombs as party favors
Why you should listen to me: My name is Nick Gray, and I’m the best–selling author of the party handbook The 2-Hour Cocktail Party. I’ve hosted hundreds of parties all over the world. After making it a habit, I can easily host a gathering and make new friends with no sweat. I’ve been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and New York Magazine once called me a host of “culturally significant” parties.
Mini Succulent Gardens
Just like how name tags help break the ice at parties, these personalized mini succulent gardens serve as both a favor and a conversation starter.
Here's how to create them:
- Buy small terracotta pots (2-3 inches in diameter) from craft stores or online
- Paint the pots with acrylic paint to match your party theme
- Write each guest's name on the pot with a paint pen
- Fill the pots with cactus soil
- Plant a small succulent in each pot
Pro tip: Just like how I recommend delegating tasks to early party arrivals in "The 2-Hour Cocktail Party," you can ask a few friends to help you prepare these favors before the event. Not sure about your party agenda? I wrote a full guide here.
Cookie Mix Jars
These DIY cookie mix jars are like a party in a jar – they keep the fun going even after your guests head home.
To create these tasty party favors:
- Use clean, quart-sized Mason jars
- Layer the dry ingredients for your favorite cookie recipe in the jar
- Attach a tag with baking instructions and any additional ingredients needed
- Decorate the jar with ribbon or twine that matches your party theme
Custom Photo Coasters
Turn your party memories into lasting keepsakes with these custom photo coasters. They're a great way to commemorate the connections made at your gathering.
Here's how to craft them:
- Get plain ceramic tiles (4x4 inches) from a home improvement store
- Print out photos from your party or of your guests
- Use Mod Podge to adhere the photos to the tiles
- Once dry, apply a sealant to protect the photo
- Attach felt pads to the bottom of each tile
Grab the free 2-page party checklist.
Scented Candles
Just like how the right music sets the mood for a party, these DIY scented soy candles can help your guests recreate the ambiance of your gathering at home.
Here's what you'll need:
- Small glass jars or tins
- Soy wax flakes
- Candle wicks
- Essential oils for scent
- A double boiler for melting the wax
To make the candles:
- Melt the soy wax in a double boiler
- Add your chosen essential oils for scent
- Pour the wax into jars with pre-placed wicks
- Allow to cool and set completely
Pro tip: Choose a scent that matches the theme of your party. It's like creating a signature cocktail, but for the nose.
DIY Bath Bombs
These fizzy, fragrant bath bombs are like a party for your bathtub. They're a great way to help your guests unwind after the excitement of your gathering.
You'll need:
- Baking soda
- Citric acid
- Cornstarch
- Epsom salt
- Essential oils
- Food coloring (optional)
- Bath bomb molds
Mix the dry ingredients, then slowly add the wet ingredients until the mixture holds together when squeezed. Press into molds and let dry overnight.
Just like how I recommend ending your party, these bath bombs give your guests a relaxing finale to their evening.
Conclusion
Creating DIY party favors is a fantastic way to show your appreciation for your guests and give them something unique to remember your event by.
Here are the key takeaways:
- Personalized mini succulent gardens serve as living name tags and conversation starters
- Homemade cookie mix jars offer a tasty at-home activity and a personal touch
- Custom photo coasters create tangible memories of your gathering
- Scented soy candles help recreate your party's ambiance at home
- DIY bath bombs provide a relaxing end to the evening
By incorporating these creative party souvenirs into your event, you're extending the party experience beyond the actual gathering.
It's like sending a little piece of your hospitality home with each guest.
Some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead and start preparing your favors well before the party date
- Involve friends or family in the crafting process to make it more enjoyable
- Consider your guests' preferences when choosing which favors to make
- Use these favors as an opportunity to reinforce your party's theme or personal brand
- Don't forget to have fun with the process – your enjoyment will shine through in the final product
In my book, The 2-Hour Cocktail Party, I provide helpful guidance on how to host a great party for any event. I wrote this book to support anyone interested in meeting new people.
When is your party? Send me an email and I will give you some bonus tips, including a pre-party checklist that you can print out. Plus, I’ll answer any question you have, free of charge. I love talking about parties, and I’m on a mission to help 1000 people host their first party.
