I have no idea when or why the idea of giving a party favor to each party guest began, but I think that it is one of the most important things to keep in mind when planning a party that people will remember. Why? It's simple. Everyone loves receiving gifts. So naturally, giving a party favor to your guests will help them to set your party apart from all of the other parties they attend. And we all know that there are enough parties to attends these days that something really unique has to happen or be given in order to make a party more than just okay.
I will offer a few small suggestions to help you in finding and giving the right party favor to your guests. A good rule of thumb is to never give a gift to someone that you wouldn't enjoy and use yourself. Are you tired of all the smelly samples of lotion and bubble bath? If so, don't try to give them to your friends as a party favor because they probably will not like it either. Before purchasing any party favor take a moment to consider how you would feel when receiving that same gift.
A great party favor should be something unique. A unique party favor can be based on the theme of your party if there is one. For example, if you are throwing a beach themed party, consider giving little baskets with sun tanning lotion and a gift certificate for sun tanning minutes at a local tanning salon. Or consider giving each guest a set of personalized stationary with a fancy pen. Another way to choose a unique party favor is to think about the person you are throwing the party for. If she loves photography you can give each guest a small photo album and a roll of film as a party favor. Throw in a coupon for free film developing to make the party favor even more unique.
Giving the perfect party favor to your guests should be easy and fun. Keep in mind the things you like, keep in mind the theme of the party and the person you are throwing the party for. Then simply be creative. Decide on a party favor that you have never seen given before and wrap your favors in a unique way. Your guests will remember your party for ages after they receive the creative party favor you give.