If you’ve ever wanted to host a favorite things party but felt overwhelmed by rules, gift swaps, or all the moving parts- this is your sign to keep it simple! I’ve been hosting these for years, starting back when we were in med school and money was tight. Over time, our situations have changed, but the heart of it has stayed the same: make it cozy, keep it low-stress, and let everyone go home with something they love!
my shirt + similar pants + shoes
: HOW IT WORKS
Everybody invited is asked to bring one of their favorite items (wrapped or in a gift bag). When we were in med school, we kept it affordable and had everyone bring three $5 gifts. The past few years, we’ve all been in a better spot financially, so we decided to get one gift in the $25-$35 range.
Toss everyone’s name into a bowl and have everyone draw one name. Whichever person draws your name gets your gift. No stealing, or complicated rules. And here’s the best part: when someone opens your gift, you get to explain why it’s your favorite….where it’s from, why you’re obsessed, what makes it special, etc. This is always everyone’s favorite part because it becomes something that everyone wants to get the link for.
: HOSTING MADE EASY
Like I said, I keep it simple! I never send fancy invitations or spend weeks planning. I literally just send a quick text to my girlfriends. My house is already decorated for the holidays, so I don’t ever need to do anything extra there! And when it comes to food, last year I just told everyone to bring their favorite treat or snack. And let me tell you- we had so much food. I served my favorite protein balls and snowball cookies, but we had so much food that I didn’t even need to prepare a thing. Some of my friends brought chips + guac, popcorn, cookies, etc, and it was all delicious!
Want to know the fun tradition I always do at my parties? I tell everyone to come in their Christmas pajamas/loungewear! It removes all the pressure of dressing up, and everyone gets to be comfy and relaxed. It instantly sets the tone for a girls’ night where we can just sit on the couch chatting for hours!
And that’s it! At the end of the day, a favorite things party should feel welcoming, low-key, cozy, and full of thoughtful gifts. It’s truly just a girls’ night surrounded by blankets, snacks, pajamas, and fun conversations- with the bonus of going home with something you love!
: WHAT TO BRING?
I wanted to share a few of my favorite things, in case you need some ideas!
Geometry Towels – I gift these towels to literally everyone in my life. Friends, teachers, sisters, etc and everyone loves them. They are the best kitchen towels a woman could ask for! They come in a million different patterns, and we also love their bath towels, tablecloths, dishcloths, and more. Don’t forget to use code KAILEE for 15% off!
Salty Tub – I’ve been sharing these bath kits for years! They make the best gift for anyone in your life. They have lots of fun themes to choose from, and each kit comes with some salts + accessories to match the theme. Both Joe and I love their kits. Their site is currently 40% off through this weekend, but my code KAILEE will save you money all year long!
Sharing more of my favorite things below…
SOME OF MY FAVORITE THINGS
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Thank you for being here! I hope you have the best favorite things party with all your friends + loved ones!
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