By Pamela D. Williams
When planning a party, I instantly think of the favors—and I don’t mean the commercial ones available in any local super center. It’s not that I have anything against the matchy-matchy assortment of items that are readily available in the party aisle, but I truly believe party favors can be as unique as your child. I also believe that it doesn’t have to take a big effort to give something special to each of your guests as a token of your appreciation.
Party favors can be more than an assortment of small toys and sugary candy treats. They can be fully integrated into the party by including supplies to create a small craft or even home printed pictures from the event in a decorated frame.
Curious about what to do instead? Well read on for some suggestions!
Bubbles…bubbles everywhere!
Bubbles are a great staple to favor bags. Children of all ages find bubbles absolutely fascinating.
Well-seasoned treats
Consider giving treats that relate to the current season. In the summer, why not give sand shovels and rakes? In the winter, hot cocoa packets and a pair of stretchy gloves will keep your guests warm.
Keep ‘em active
Party favors that motivate children to get off of the couch are wonderful. A jump rope and inflatable ball are great motivators.
I like to move it, move it!
Make a CD of your child’s favorite music and burn each guest a copy to take home.
Flower power
In the spring and early summer, a small flowering plant in a small pot is quite charming. Also try giving seeds and a small pot at the beginning of growing season.
I scream, you scream!
A gift certificate for a cone at the local ice cream parlor will be appreciated in the hot summer months.
When personalized to suit your child’s personality and party-theme, party favors can literally be the icing on the cake.
Pamela D. Williams
Pamela D. Williams is the owner of Party Prep, located in Urbana. She is the proud mother of 2-year-old Ollie and is married to James Cheers, III.
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Very nice article. I will use these suggestions with my son’s birthday party. Thank you so much.
Favorite party favor ever was big-boy/big-girl underwear for a 3-year-old birthday party which matched the party theme. All the kids loved them — the ones who were already using them wanted to put them right on and the ones who weren’t using them yet had some motivation.
I like to put whatever I’m giving in something real — a little purse, a decorated pail, etc. When the disposable items are gone, the container is still useful. (But on the record I’d be thrilled if we could forget the whole favor thing. It’s gotten way out of hand, IMO.)
The Tickle Me Plant Party Favor packaged in the usa made my kids Birthday Party a huge success. In it you can grow a real Plant that moves when you Tickle It! The leaves instantly fold and even the branches droop when Tickled! You have to see the video and grow your own to believe this is real. I found it at (Http://tiny.cc/Ticklemeplant)