How to Host a Favorite Things Party
May 13, 2025, Updated Jun 19, 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!
Looking for more party ideas? Check out my Harvest Party and How to Host a Wine and Cheese Party
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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
- Semi-Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
- Sparkling Grapefruit Martinis
- White Sangria Recipe + Rosé Wine
Eden’s 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideal group size (6–12) and how to scale the item exchange for smaller or larger groups.
Yes—and you should! I usually say around $15 per item, but give it a little wiggle room so it doesn’t feel too strict. There’s always someone who brings a fancy face oil or a candle that costs $24. Let them! It adds to the fun and gives everyone major gift envy in the best way.
Toss everyone’s name in a bowl and draw one at a time each round. After picking, their name goes back in for the next draw. Everyone gets one steal total—so choose wisely! You can’t steal from someone who just stole from you, which keeps it playful, not cutthroat. It’s the perfect mix of strategy, laughs, and “wait, I need that!” energy.
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
Planning one? Pin this or send it to your group chat; your Favorite Things Party is going to be so good!
