A gift bag makes a nice keepsake for your guests.
Whether they're for a children's birthday party, a token for your bridesmaids, or a parting gift for guests, gift bags are a thoughtful way to say "thank you" to the guests who attend your special event. It does take some thought, however, to put together a truly spectacular gift bag that goes beyond cheap candy and dollar store trinkets. With a little imagination, a gift bag can be a memorable keepsake without having to cost you too much money.
Themes for Children
Kids' birthday party goodie bags are by far the most common kind of gift bags. It can be challenging to go beyond the regular mix of balloons, plastic toys and treat-sized candy bars. It's a good idea to pick a theme and stick with it. A garden-themed goodie bag could carry child-sized gardening tools, little garden ornaments and seeds--all packaged in a little metal bucket. A princess party could feature gift bags with dress-up items--such as plastic jewelry, feather boas and foam tiaras. These kinds of items are easily available at most dollar stores, so you can put together something special for the kids without breaking the bank.
Packaging for Children
Children love cute packaging, so even if you don't go with a specific theme, there are plenty of adorable ideas for take-home treats. Try a ceramic piggy-bank full of chocolate coins or a painting smock with pockets full of art supplies and other treats. A little treasure chest full of loot would be great for a boy's party. The trick is to find things that will delight the children but won't be thrown in the trash as soon as they get home.
Bridesmaids
It is traditional for a bride to give the members of her wedding party gifts, but a gift bag can also work well. Since the bridal party is chosen in the spirit of female friendship and sisterhood, it can be nice to keep things feminine and choose luxurious girly items, such as flowery soaps, fancy makeup or gift certificates for spas or manicures. Personalize the gift bags so that the items will appeal to each individual bridesmaid. If your wedding has a theme or is a destination wedding, cater the items to that theme.
Other Kinds of Parties
Send your guests home with a little bag of cookies and tree ornaments at the end of a Christmas party. A man's birthday guests might appreciate a bag filled with golf balls and tees.
Tags: gift bags, birthday party, your guests