We’ve all been there—leaving a party with a tiny bag of favors that somehow end up at the bottom of a purse, forgotten in a junk drawer, or mysteriously vanishing on the way home. (Oops.)
But party favors don’t have to be useless clutter! If you’re putting time and effort into DIY gifts, make them worth keeping. Think practical, stylish, and maybe even a little indulgent—because no one needs another baggie of stale candy and plastic whistles.
So, ditch the throwaway trinkets! These DIY party favors are stylish, practical, and something your guests will actually use and love. Perfect for any celebration! Here are DIY party favors that your guests will actually use (and love!)—whether it’s a birthday bash, bridal shower, or a casual get-together.
1. Mini Spa Kits (Because Everyone Needs Self-Care)
Perfect for: Bridal showers, baby showers, girls’ nights, or any excuse to pamper.
Create small self-care bundles with:
- DIY sugar scrubs in mini jars (brown sugar + coconut oil = magic)
- Tiny bottles of lavender or peppermint essential oil
- A handmade lip balm or bath bomb
- A cute scrunchie or mini hand lotion
Bonus: Package them in a muslin bag with a handwritten “Relax, you deserve it” tag. Guests will actually use these instead of tossing them into the party favor abyss.
2. Personalized Candles (Because Who Doesn’t Love a Good Scent?)
Perfect for: Birthdays, weddings, or cozy fall/winter gatherings.
Making DIY candles is shockingly easy. Melt some soy wax, add a wick to a small glass jar, mix in essential oils (vanilla, citrus, or eucalyptus are crowd-pleasers), and let them set.
Personalization ideas:
- Label them with a fun pun (“You light up my life!”)
- Use guests’ initials or a monogram
- Match the scent to your event theme
It’s a favor that smells amazing and won’t end up in a landfill—win-win!
3. Custom Spice Blends (For the Foodies in Your Life)
Perfect for: BBQs, dinner parties, and foodie-themed events.
Mix up some DIY spice blends in tiny glass jars or test tubes! Some easy combos:
- Taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika)
- BBQ rub (brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne)
- Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme, garlic powder)
Add a simple recipe tag like “Sprinkle on chicken for instant deliciousness.” It’s a favor that keeps on giving (and makes their meals tastier).
4. Mini Potted Plants or Succulents (For a Gift That Keeps Growing)
Perfect for: Baby showers, weddings, and eco-friendly events.
Small succulents or herb plants in cute pots make adorable favors. You can personalize them with mini signs like:
- “Let love grow” (for weddings)
- “Watch me thrive” (for milestone birthdays)
- “Thanks for sticking around” (for any event, really!)
They double as table décor and a lasting memory of your event.
5. Homemade Flavored Syrups (Because Fancy Drinks = Happy Guests)
Perfect for: Brunches, cocktail parties, and foodie gatherings.
DIY flavored syrups for coffee or cocktails are chef’s kiss. Some easy flavors:
- Vanilla bean syrup (sugar, water, vanilla extract)
- Cinnamon brown sugar (great for coffee lovers)
- Strawberry basil (amazing in cocktails or lemonade)
Bottle them in mini glass jars and add a tag with serving ideas (“Try me in iced coffee or over pancakes!”). Your guests will think you’re a DIY genius.
6. Custom Tote Bags (Because Plastic Bags Are Out)
Perfect for: Bachelorette parties, retreats, or events with a theme.
Buy blank canvas totes and DIY your own designs using fabric paint, iron-on transfers, or stencils.
Some fun ideas:
- A quote that matches your event vibe (“Good times & tan lines” for a beach party)
- A cute, minimal design (like a simple heart or initials)
- A funny inside joke from your friend group
Unlike cheap favor bags, these totes will actually get used—whether for groceries, books, or running errands.
7. Mini Cocktail Kits (Because Happy Guests = Happy You)
Perfect for: Weddings, adult birthday parties, or NYE bashes.
Assemble tiny cocktail kits with:
- A mini bottle of liquor (like whiskey, tequila, or gin)
- A small can of mixer (tonic, soda, or juice)
- A recipe card (“Mix, sip, enjoy!”)
For a non-alcoholic version, swap the booze for gourmet sodas, tea blends, or flavored syrups. Either way, your guests will love these.
8. DIY Hot Cocoa or Coffee Mixes (For Cozy Vibes)
Perfect for: Holiday parties, winter weddings, or cozy gatherings.
Layer hot cocoa ingredients in mini jars (cocoa powder, sugar, crushed peppermint, marshmallows) and tie with a cute ribbon.
For coffee lovers, make a DIY cold brew kit with:
- A small bag of coarse-ground coffee
- A simple brewing guide (“Steep in cold water for 12 hours, then enjoy!”)
Bonus points if you add a reusable straw or a fun coffee pun tag!
9. Personalized Bookmarks (For the Readers & Writers)
Perfect for: Book club parties, literary events, or any book-loving friend group.
Handmade bookmarks are super easy—just use thick cardstock or laminate printed designs. Some fun ideas:
- Quotes from your favorite books
- Simple watercolor designs
- Tassels or pressed flowers for an extra touch
Add guests’ names for a personalized touch, and voilà—no more dog-eared pages!
10. Scented Sachets (For a Fresh & Fancy Touch)
Perfect for: Weddings, showers, or classy events.
Fill small fabric sachets with lavender, dried rose petals, or cedar chips for a natural air freshener. Guests can pop them in drawers, gym bags, or suitcases for a fresh scent.
Make it extra cute by stamping the sachets with your event date or a cute quote (“Stay fresh!”).
Final Thought: If It’s Not Useful, It’s Clutter
DIY favors don’t have to be expensive or complicated—just thoughtful. Choose something your guests will love, actually use, and maybe even Instagram.
Because let’s be honest: If it’s not practical, pretty, or delicious, it’s probably not making it past the car ride home.
Which favor idea is your favorite? Or do you have a go-to DIY party favor that people actually love? Let me know in the comments!