The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re aiming to get the girls together, why not make it one to remember with an epic Favorite Things Party!
Sure, you could just order some pizza for an after-work, before the kids go down soiree, but that’s no fun! Let’s amp it up this year and create those CORE MEMORIES… after all they are farther and fewer between since we figured out Santa doesn’t really climb down the chimney to deliver just what we asked for every year. We actually have to MAKE that magic happen, friends.
So, let’s talk how to host a favorite things party they’ll never forget, along with gift ideas for every price point, so you can claim the title of Hostess of the Year (you know… if that really were a thing.)
Note: When you shop via links on our site, we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Savvy Swaréy. Learn more.
What is a Favorite Things Party?
Thanks to the magic of TikTok, a Favorite Things Party is the friendsmas gathering we never knew we needed but can’t live without now. While the rulebook might have some tweaks depending on the host, here’s the scoop:
Everyone invited to the party picks one thing they swear by and can’t imagine life without.
It could be anything from under eye patches that are basically liquid gold, the comfiest cozy socks, or a snack you literally cannot put down since you discovered it—essentially, anything that you’re head over heels for. Then, you strut into the party, gift(s) in hand, ready to trade for a bunch of other treasures that your ride-or-die ladies swear by.
Basically, think Secret Santa, but without the stress of finding the perfect gift. Oh, and did I mention you can score more than one awesome present? It’s like a gift exchange on steroids, and it’s a party to boot! Honestly, who wouldn’t be game for that?
How to Throw a Favorite Things Party They’ll Love
Now that you know what a Favorite Things Party is, we can get into the basics of how to throw one. It’s pretty simple, there’s just a few things to consider and keep in mind to make sure it’s a light-hearted, fun experience for all involved.
Here’s how to make it smooth, fun, and totally unforgettable.
Get Ready: Favorite Things Party Prep Made Easy
Before your guests show up, set the stage for a party they’ll be raving about:
- Pick a Theme: A fun theme instantly ups the vibe and makes your party more memorable. Think cozy “Pajamas & Pancakes,” a glitzy “Glam Night In,” or something totally unique! A theme isn’t just for fun; it ties everything together—from decor to outfits to gift ideas.
Need some inspo? Check out 31 Friendsmas Theme Ideas for all the creative vibes.
- Deck It Out: No need to go over the top, but a few festive touches go a long way. Twinkly lights, a DIY Christmas garland, and even a DIY photo backdrop can make the space feel extra special.
- Send Out Invites: Whether you go digital or old-school with printed cards, make sure your invites include all the details—like how many gifts to bring, the budget, and any theme or dress code. Check out the FAQs Section for guidance!
Favorite Things Gift Exchange: How It Works
Once everyone arrives, it’s time for the main event! Here’s how to keep it simple and stress-free:
1. Set Up the Drawing: Grab a bowl, some paper, and pens. Have each guest write their name on as many slips as the number of gifts they brought (three gifts = three slips) and drop them into the bowl.
2. Show & Share: When it’s their turn, each guest introduces their favorite thing—what it is, why they love it, and why they picked it to share. This part is always so much fun because everyone gets to see new must-haves they didn’t even know they needed.
3. Draw & Gift: After explaining their pick, the guest draws names from the bowl (one name per gift) and hands their gifts out. Keep going until all the gifts are exchanged and everyone has something special to take home.
And that’s it! The beauty of a Favorite Things Party is that everyone walks away with new treasures and lots of laughs. Just remember, the goal is to share things you genuinely love—that’s what makes it so fun and personal!
Next, let’s talk about some gift ideas! Feel free to share this list with your girlfriends if they are stuck on what to bring.
Top Favorite Things Gift Ideas for Every Budget
OK, last but not least, if you need some inspiration on what to bring either as a guest or a hostess, here are a few of my picks for a Favorite Things Party gift exchange:
Favorite Things Party Gift Ideas Under $50
SIO UNDER EYE BEAUTY PATCHES | $30
A co-worker turned me on to these, as yes, sadly, I am aging as much as I hate to admit it. I’ll throw these on at night for about a week at a time (they are reusable if you handle as instructed). You can also grab forehead patches, and chest patches!
STANLEY 40 OZ. TUMBLER | $50
I know, I know… a bit basic. But I don’t care. I was gifted my Stanley Tumbler for a birthday and I’ve loved it ever since. It makes a great gift because it’s likely something someone wouldn’t splurge on for themselves.
Favorite Things Party Gift Ideas Under $25
LA ROCHE POSAY MINERAL SPRAY | $20
I absolutely swear by this in the winter. After I apply my face lotion, and before applying my makeup, I spritz my face for an extra hydration boost. It helps fend off any pesky dry patches that pop up during the colder months.
HONEST PRIME & PERFECT MASK | $20
This is another great winter purchase in my book. I re-buy every year and incorporate this as part of my weekend routine. It’s great because it’s gentle and hydrating, perfect for combatting winter-time dryness.
Favorite Things Party Gift Ideas Under $15
MAGNETIC LEATHER BOOKMARK | $6
Again, I was gifted one of these magnetic leather bookmarks for my birthday (a monogrammed version), and I absolutely love it! No more losing my place, or using the book jacket as my bookmark!
TANGLE TEEZER EGG BRUSH | $10-15
This one was actually a gift my friend bought last year for our Favorite Things Gift exchange! I use it every single day and now, it’s made MY favorite things list and it’s a great find under $15!
Favorite Things Party FAQ
A Favorite Things Party is a fun gift exchange where guests bring a few of their favorite items to share with others. Think Secret Santa, but with gifts you personally swear by—like cozy socks, beauty must-haves, or delicious snacks. Everyone leaves with new treasures and tons of inspiration!
The standard is 3 gifts, but you can adjust based on your group size and budget. Just make sure everyone knows how many to bring ahead of time!
Affordable options include scented candles, skincare minis, gourmet snacks, or cute stationery. Stick to a price point (like under $25) and choose items that feel thoughtful yet practical.
Send out invitations 3–4 weeks ahead of time to give everyone time to RSVP and shop for gifts. Around the holidays, earlier is better since calendars fill up fast!
Invite friends or family who share similar vibes. A smaller, close-knit group works best to keep things relaxed and fun. Bonus: It’s a great excuse to bring together your favorite people!
OK friends, that’s all I got for you. With these Favorite Things Party ideas you’ll be on your way to earning the coveted title of Hostess of the Year! So, deck the halls, pour the eggnog, and get ready to sleigh the hosting game.
Happy holidays to you and yours!
Xo,
Kels
P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe to get the printable party planning checklist!
One thought on “How to Host the Ultimate Favorite Things Party + Gift Ideas”