50+ Favorite Things Party Gift Ideas Under $25

(Updated 10/12/26) A Favorite Things Party is a guaranteed good time. Period.

What started as an annual tradition for me quickly became one of my all-time favorite ways to gather friends. There’s something magical about watching people who’ve just met start bonding over the things they can’t live without — from a perfect mascara to a must-have kitchen gadget.

I’ve taken a short break the past couple of years to test out other party themes (research, of course 😉, but this one always ranks high on my “most fun ever” list.

If you’ve never hosted one before, check out my post on How to Host A Favorite Things Party step-by-step tips. Then come back here for some seriously good Favorite Things party gift ideas that have all been real hits! 

How a Favorite Things Party Works:

While every hostess puts her own spin on it, the concept is simple: everyone brings their “favorite thing” to share.

For my party, I ask guests to bring three of the same item, traditionally around $15 each. With prices these days, though, I’d probably bump that to $20.

There are always a few people who go over budget (we love the enthusiasm!), but no one should feel pressured. Keep it fun, lighthearted, and doable for everyone. You know your guest list best, so choose a price point that works for your crew.

Pro Tip: Think of it as a gift swap meets show-and-tell—with snacks, laughter, and maybe a splash of wine. 😉

 

Table goals, right? Every single one of these gifts represents someone’s “can’t live without it” item — and by the end of the night, we’ve all found a few new obsessions.
The ultimate Favorite Things Party haul — what would you bring?

What to Bring to a Favorite Things Party:

We’ve all been there. You RSVP “Yes!” and then instantly ask yourself, “Wait… what am I bringing?”

Here’s how to find your perfect pick without overthinking it:

  1. Think in categories: Beauty • Home • Kitchen • Hobbies • Entertainment • Food
  2. Choose something you actually use or love — that’s the magic of these parties.
  3. Travel sizes are perfect for beauty gifts (and super packable).
  4. Shop smart — grab sales or coupons when you can.
  5. Have fun with it! People love playful or unexpected gifts.

Favorite Things Party GIFT ITEM IDEAS:

Below are real gifts that have been given at my parties — crowd-pleasers all around! 

(PLUS a few bonus items that I use and love since our last Favorite Things gathering.)

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4. OPI Chip Skip Prep Coat

(*Item has been gifted 3 years running!)

5. Trader Joe's Lavender Dryer Bags

(Gifted with Lavender Grow Kit w/planter seeds)

8. Wet Brush

(Aquaphor was given along with Brush)

10. Electric Rechargable Candle Lighter

(Lighter was given along with a candle)

11. Dryer Balls

(By Friendsheep - Organic & Free Trade)

12. Solar Lantern

(Lantern given was similar)

28. Sally Hansen Base & Top Coat

(Paired with OPI Nail Polish)

29. OPI Nail Polish

(Paired with Sally Hansen's Base & Top Coat. *Another item often repeated)

34. CND Solar Oil

Nail & Cuticle Care

35. Insulated Cup

(14 oz. - coffee “to go”)

36. Packing Cubes

(Fav for Travel)

43. Tile by Life360

No more searching for car keys! (Set of 4 - Break up the set for your unique gift!)

I hope you’ve found a few new favorites for your next Favorite Things Party—or at least got those gift-giving wheels turning! And the best part? So many of these finds pull double duty as birthday gifts, girls’ weekend goodies, hostess gifts…or maybe even your next Favorite Thing. 😉

Still looking for more little gifts with big potential? Be sure to check out my 100+ Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Adults & Teens. It’s packed with even more fun, affordable finds that would be right at home at a Favorite Things Party. (Because really, can you ever have too many great gift ideas?)

Want more gift ideas, easy entertaining inspiration, and everyday reasons to celebrate? Subscribe to Fun with Fun-Size and you’ll also get access to my exclusive Resource Library.

And come hang out with me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram @funwithfun_size—there’s always more FUN happening over there!

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