Goody Bag Ideas for Adults

Goody bags are traditionally given out at children's birthday parties. Full of small treats and prizes, these bags are a way to thank the children for attending the party. Adult goody bags are gaining in popularity, perhaps modeled after the tradition of giving famous guests party "bags" at events such as awards shows and movie premiers. Adult goody bags don't have to be stuffed with lavish gifts to be appreciated, however. Create a gift bag your guests will love by filling them with inexpensive but attractive items.

Gift cards are a great inclusion in any gift bag. Stop by your local coffee shop and purchase a group of gift cards or coupons to put in the goody bags. Other gift card ideas include gift cards for restaurants, craft stores and garden centers. Tailor the gift card to match the occasion of your party.

Place a high-end gourmet candy or mints in the goody bags. Some ideas could include a peppermint stick, a pretty tin of mints, some gold-foil covered chocolates, or a small bag of hard candies.

If all of your guests are 21 or older, you can include a cocktail in the goody bag. Simple put a single-serving miniature bottle of your cocktail of choice in the bag, along with a fun plastic glass or shot glass. Just be sure to remind your guests to save the cocktails for after they get home!

If your guests are women, they will love receiving some lovely scented items in the goody bags. Try placing votive candles, a bag of potpourri, or incense in the goody bags. Bath salts or small, purse-sized tubes of lotion are other great ideas for women.

Almost everyone appreciates a nice pen and notebook. Try giving each guest a small cloth or leather-bound blank notebook in their bag, along with a nice pen.

If your guests stay until the wee hours of the morning, send them home with a goody bag filled with "breakfast" items, such as a package of instant hot cocoa, a donut, or even a small box of cereal with a plastic spoon.