Most
of us think only of weddings when considering party favors.
However, they are often given at birthday parties or any social
gathering at which the host wants to thank their guests for
coming. These favors can range from very simple items, such
as a small parcel containing a sweet or two, to extravagant
gifts. The history of the favor reveals that the first to give
them were the Italian nobility and their wealth permitted them
to give items made of silver or gold.
The
majority of us do not have the money to be able to buy our guests
anything extravagant. However, there are simple ways to show
your appreciation which do not have to cost a lot of money.
If your gathering involves a formal, seated meal favors can
double as place settings. For example, at a wedding each place
setting could be marked by a miniature champagne bottle with
a label displaying the name of the person who is to sit there.
Then, all of the guests will have their own cork to pop for
the toast.
If
your budget allows, you could purchase a small photo frame for
each guest at your party. Inside you could place a piece of
paper with their names on. This would then give your guest a
keepsake of the event. In addition, when you send them a thank-you
card after the occasion you can include a photo taken at the
time for them to place in their frame. This ensures that every
guest has something to cherish from your gathering.
Another
way to add life to traditional favors is the way in which you
display them. If your party has a theme then you can incorporate
this into their decoration. If you are having a beach themed
party, for example, you could place a children’s bucket,
filled with sand, in the center of each table and place the
favors in there.
If
you are creative you could make bookmarks or embroider handkerchiefs
for each guest with their initials on. Alternatively, if your
guests are friends you made through a shared hobby you could
incorporate that into your favors. For example, a group of golfers
may appreciate a ball or a couple of tees more than chocolate.
Also, this adds the personal touch as your gifts are relevant
to your guests and this makes them feel appreciated and valued.
There
is no limit to what you can offer your guests as party favors.
All you need is a little bit of imagination and enthusiasm and
yours can be the party everyone wants an invite to, just for
the favor!
About the Author:
The
author is a regular contributor to Best Party Favors where more
party organization and party favor advice is freely available.Party
Favors
