How to Host a Favorite Things Holiday Party
The holidays are all about sharing joy…and what better way to do that than by swapping your favorite finds with your favorite people? A Favorite Things party is part gift exchange, part girls’ night, and part retail therapy recap, all rolled into one festive celebration.
Personally, my friend’s annual favorite things fête is my absolute favorite party of the year. After a few years of attending (and designing the invitations), I’ve got the routine down pat. So whether you’re planning a cozy pajama party or a sparkling holiday soirée, here’s how to host a Favorite Things party everyone will look forward to year after year.
Choose the Perfect Invitation
Every great party starts with an invitation that sets the tone. Whether you prefer something with cozy hygge vibes, playful and bright, or a classic “old money” aesthetic, your invite should include the key details: the date, time, location, and—most importantly—how the gift exchange works.
You can explore a few of my favorite invitation designs here, most of which are available for digital download as well as professionally printed and shipped. If going the digital route, I recommend uploading your invite to an app like Paperless Post for easy sharing, RSVP tracking, and updates.
Invitation Wording & Gift Instructions
This isn’t your average Secret Santa! Favorite Things parties follow their own fun set of rules. You’ll want to make sure your invitation explains them clearly so everyone comes prepared.
Here’s a sample wording you can use or tweak:
“Please bring 3 of the same favorite thing, each valued around $[insert amount], wrapped individually. You’ll go home with 3 new favorite things chosen by friends!”
It’s also helpful to mention whether guests should bring gifts in a certain theme (for example: beauty products, kitchen gadgets, cozy finds, or under-$50 favorites).
How the Exchange Works
On party night, write each guest’s name on three slips of paper and place them in a bowl. When it’s their turn, each gift giver will draw three names from the bowl, and those three lucky friends will receive one of their gifts.
It’s amazing how many hidden gems (and cult favorites!) make their debut at this party each year. Everyone always wants follow up details, especially for coveted gifts they didn’t end up getting. I recommend either designating one guest to keep track of the gifts and sharing the info later, or sending a Google spreadsheet post-party for guests to add links to their gifts.
Food, Drinks & Party Theme
Here are a few easy ideas to make your Favorite Things party memorable, chic, and cohesive:
- Pajama party: Keep it cozy with pjs, slippers, hot cocoa, and a dessert-focused menu.
- Sparkle & sip: Bling it out with champagne cocktails with a swirl of edible glitter, twinkle lights, and gold metallic or silver shimmer decor accents.
- Drinks: Serve a signature holiday cocktail (like cranberry prosecco punch or peppermint espresso martinis) alongside mocktail options or sparkling waters.
- Snacks: A grazing board or potluck-style spread works beautifully. Guests can bring their own “favorite thing” to share.
Favorite Gift Ideas to Bring
Part of the fun is finding that perfect “favorite thing” to share. Whether it’s a beauty staple, kitchen essential, cozy candle, or cult-favorite snack, the goal is to choose something you genuinely love and can’t stop raving about.
Favorites I’ve received over the years have run the gamut from a Barefoot Dreams blanket and book bundle to Maldon Sea Salt in a display-worthy wood salt cellar.
Ideally, you’ll already have something in mind, but if you’re stuck and need some inspo, check out my curated list of tried-and-true crowd-pleasers on Benable. You’ll find ideas across every budget and category, all tested and loved!
Final Tips
- Set a budget so everyone’s gifts feel equal. Ours is around $60.
- Add a personal touch: Be ready with a few words to explain why you love your chosen item.
- Don’t forget music! A holiday playlist keeps the energy up during the swap.
Whether it’s your first time hosting or an annual tradition, a Favorite Things holiday party is guaranteed to spark great conversation and major joy. It’s the perfect reminder that the best gifts are the ones we truly love…and the friends we share them with!
Planning a celebration for a loved one who’s fresh off the market? If you love the idea of a celebration that feels effortlessly chic, full of charm, and inspired by fresh local finds (or your favorite Nancy Meyers movie), a farmers market themed bridal shower is the perfect pick! 
