How to Host a Favorite Things Party
May 13, 2025
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Hosting a Favorite Things Party might just be my new favorite way to gather friends. It’s simple, joyful, hilarious, and everyone leaves with new must-haves they didn’t know they needed!
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Pin ItThis isn’t your typical gift exchange; there’s storytelling, laughter, good food, and that magical mix of charm + connection that makes a gathering unforgettable. Here’s how I hosted mine – from the food to the party flow and how you can recreate it too.
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So, what is a Favorite Things Party?
Here’s how it works:
- Each guest brings 3 of the same favorite item (around $15), unwrapped.
- All the items go on a display table.
- We do 3 rounds of choosing – everyone goes home with 3 new faves!
- For each round, we draw names from a bowl. Names go back in after each round for a fresh order.
- Each guest gets 1 steal total, so use it wisely!
- You can’t steal from someone who just stole from you; keeps it friendly and fun!
Trust me: the speeches are where the magic is. My friends had us crying laughing. Turns out everyone is an undercover comedian and product influencer.
Brunch Menu for a Favorite Things Party
Here’s what I served for our brunch-style Favorite Things Party:
- Mint Mojito Coffee Station – iced espresso + fresh mint syrup (SO refreshing)
- Frittata
- Banana Bread
- Blueberry Snacking Cake, Roasted Carrot Hummus and Salad with Warm Bacon Vinaigrette – ALL from my book!
- Cheese Platter – with olives + Marcona almonds
- Cinnamon Rolls + Strawberry Croissants – from a local bakery
- Sparkling Grapefruit Martinis
- Sparkling White + Rosé Wine
Hosting Tips
Set a $15-ish limit – but know some people will go rogue.
Remind guests to bring three of the same items, unwrapped.
Encourage funny or heartfelt explanations – this is where the memories are made.
Set up the items like a mini market table so it feels special.
Bonus: have a little gift or flower for each guest to take home.
Quick Planning Timeline
Here’s how I pulled it off without the stress:
Day of: Got ready first, finished the food, lit the fire, and hit play on the playlist!
4 weeks before: Sent out invites + made a mood board
2 weeks out: Ordered charming details + gifts
1 week out: Finalized the menu + checked the weather
3 days before: Grocery run + guest reminders
Day before: Set the table + prepped what I could
You can totally throw a Favorite Things Party for any occasion – Mother’s Day, birthdays, holiday gatherings, girls’ night, or just because it’s Tuesday and you need a little joy. It works year-round and never gets old.
More Party Ideas
How to Host a Wine and Cheese Party
Planning one? Pin this or send it to your group chat; your Favorite Things Party is going to be so good!
