A Favorite Things Party is one of my favorite ways to gather friends — low pressure, thoughtful, and genuinely fun. The idea is simple: everyone brings one (or a few of the same) favorite item within a set price range, and you spend the evening sharing, swapping, and discovering new things you might not have found on your own.
The “favorite things” can be anything — a beauty product you swear by, a cozy accessory, a home find, a book, or even a pantry staple you always gift. Part of the fun is hearing why someone loves what they brought. It turns gift-giving into a conversation, not just an exchange.
It’s equal parts girls’ night, show-and-tell, and the coziest kind of party.
Here’s how it works.
Step 1: Set the guest list and price
Invite a small group — anywhere from 6 to 12 people works best. Decide on a price range ahead of time (usually $25–$50) so everything feels fair and easy.
Step 2: Pick the rules
Each guest brings one favorite item (or the same item multiple times, depending on your group) within the price range. It should be something they truly love and would happily gift again — beauty, home, cozy accessories, pantry favorites, books, etc.
Step 3: Wrap and label
Have guests wrap their item and include a small note explaining why they love it or how to use it. This is one of the best parts and always sparks conversation.
Step 4: Set up the exchange
Place all the wrapped gifts in one spot. You can:
- Draw numbers
- Pull names from a bowl
- Or go around in a circle
Each person opens a gift, shares it with the group, and reads the note before moving on.
Step 5: Swap or keep
Some groups keep what they open, while others do a final swap round at the end so everyone leaves with something they’re excited about. Choose what feels right for your group.
Easy Hosting Tips for a Girls’ Night
Keep the hosting simple so you can enjoy the night too.
- Lamps on, overhead lights low or off, plus one really good candle
- Chilled white wine, a simple spritz, or sparkling water with citrus
- Grazing boards that feel effortless
- Loose seating — stools, floor cushions, poufs, whatever you have
- Fresh flowers, a great candle
- And the essentials: wine, snacks, and deep conversation
A Favorite Things Party is less about the gifts and more about the connection. It’s cozy, meaningful, and one of those nights that feels easy to host but special to attend.
What to Bring
If you’re unsure what to bring, think about something you personally reach for all the time — useful, a little indulgent, and easy to love. Based on this edit, here are a few of my go-to ideas:
- A luxury body soap or lotion that feels special but still practical
- A clean beauty favorite — think lip balm, mascara, or a glow product you always keep in your bag
- A pretty candle with a soft, crowd-pleasing scent
- A chic hair accessory like a claw clip or brush you use daily
- Cozy accessories — socks, wraps, or something soft you’d gift again and again
- A small home upgrade, like cocktail napkins, matches, or a tabletop detail
- Everyday extras — sunglasses, a compact umbrella, or lace thongs
- A thoughtful little indulgence that feels elevated but not over-the-top
The best gifts are the ones you’d happily buy again for yourself. If you love it, chances are someone else will too.
