WHAT TO PUT IN HEN PARTY BAGS!

Written By: Bec

Deciding what to put in hen party bags is made easy with this fantastic list!
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These gorgeous hens party favours are fantastic for guests – being anything from an ice-breaker to a game starter. But even though the final product looks easy to put together; when it comes down to it, thinking about what to put in the bags can actually be quite challenging (probably the reason you’re reading this article in the first place!).

Well, stress less my friend!

​After putting together MANY of these beauties over the years, I’m here to share the fun, thoughtful and downright cheeky party bag fillers available to you. Enjoy x

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Related: Eco Gifts
Related: Awesome Prize Ideas

​ Check Out Our Favourite Goodie Bag Filler Ideas on Etsy

★ Click here to view the hand-picked collection ★

Choosing Your Hen Party Goodie Bags or Boxes

PERSONALISED GIFT BAGS & BOXES

★Click here to view a range of beautiful, personalised gift bags★

When it comes to your bride squad bags, there are so many great options. With the personalised variety being a hot favourite!

From a fabric tote bag (complete with screen-printed name or quote) to a personalised favour box; there's sure to be something wonderful out there that will not only suit your celebration to a tee, but will also make each of your guests feel loved.

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​REUSABLE & RECYCLABLE
Reusable bags come in many colours, patterns and sizes. Making them a great option. Why? Because you can find a size to suit your fillers, colours to suit your theme, and a style to suit the bride-to-be.

And better yet?

Due to their high quality, reusable nature; party-goers can use them again and again. Making them a lovely keepsake as well!

Handy Tip:
If you're after a more affordable option, recyclable paper bags/boxes are worth looking into. Mostly coming in packs of four or more, they too are available in a range of fun colours and patterns. And with everything from adorable little kraft squares to boxes shaped like dresses, you won't find it hard to find something amazing for your special day.

Alternative:
Ask each guest to bring a bag of their choice - one that they already own. Collect these at the beginning of the event. At some point during the celebration, sneak off and fill each bag with goodies (a bit like Santa!). When the party wraps up, send everyone off, bags now filled with wonderful treats!

SURVIVAL (OR HANGOVER) KIT BAGS
Planning on partying hard? Provide guests with sustenance (hello, chocolate) and other fun goodies to help them through the night (...and the next day!).

Related: DIY Survival Kits & Hangover Bags

WHEN YOU DON'T HAVE THE $$$ TO SPLURGE ON PACKAGING
The bags themselves don’t need to be expensive. Rather than going all out, purchase plain paper party bags in kraft, white and/or your theme colour(s). From here you can personalise them however you wish.

Leave them plain, put your calligraphy skills to good use and write each guests' name on their particular bag, cut out a shape to stick to the front [such as a card heart] or purchase gift tags and write short messages to your guests that can be attached to each bag).

PUTTING TOGETHER THE PERFECT HEN PARTY GIFT BAG:
When it comes to gifting little goodies, there are SO many wonderful options (as you will soon see). But before looking through the great list below, I have a couple of tips....

First, you DON'T need to spend a ridiculous amount to delight your guests. One thoughtful gift goes a long way (as do a couple of well-thought out smaller gifts).

Second, the fabulous party bag filler ideas below can also be used for prizes. So if you're stuck in that department, prepare to be inspired :)

​The Ultimate List of Party Bag Filler Ideas

Novelty Items

​18+ ACCESSORIES

★Click here for hilariously cheeky party ideas★

Penis shaped items in general will have the girls in hysterics.

You can keep your bags low waste by purchasing a cooking mould and making willy shaped chocolates or cookies, baking cupcakes topped with pecker shaped fondant, or even by filling the bags with cheeky confetti (see image below).

Whatever you decide, just make sure your group is up for such an event. You don't want anyone to be uncomfortable or offended by the treats in their bag (especially the bride-to-be).

Related: 18+ Hen Parties 'How To'

DRESS UPS
Some sort of accessory that relates to the theme of your party makes for a great filler. Not only fun, but also a simple way to bring the group together. Think anything from headgear (such as flower crowns, headbands, clip on bows, etc.) to actual dress ups (such as sunglasses, long gloves, feather boa's, bow ties or wigs).

Handy Hint:
​Try to include items that your guests will use again. Hit up your local op shop if you're after some fun yet unique goodies! Dress up accessories that you gift your guests will also make fun photo props throughout the event.
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TEMPORARY TATTOOS

A favour and party accessory all in one.

If you're having a themed event (mermaids, for example), you could gift fake tattoos that tie the whole party together (e.g. matching mermaids, an assortment of mermaids, images that represent the ocean, shells, etc.).

Don't have a theme but would like your group to match in some way? Consider grabbing some fun quotes or images of the groom instead!

JEWELLERY
Woven friendship bracelets, matching rings or a stunning set of earrings all make for beautiful gifts.

You may also like to get a little crafty by providing each guest with DIY jewellery kit. They can then create their own unique treasures that will forever remind them of this special day.

Foodie Treats
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BAKED GOODS
Think anything from cookies or cupcakes to cake slices or brownies. When deciding what to include, make sure you go with the option that best suits your celebration (i.e. for a healthy hens getaway you might include protein balls; whereas a naughty night on the town would be a great excuse for some 18+ biscuits!).
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​CHOCOLATE

Always a winner. Always. Because, let's be honest, there's not many people out there who don't enjoy these delicious treats.

So, the hard part isn't really deciding whether or not to include chocolate in your hen party gift bags. Nope. It's more a question of what TYPE of chocolate should it be?!

Small chocolate hearts, little frogs, favourites, mini chocolate bars covered in personalised wrappers, 18+ chocolate treats - the list is huge when it comes to your options here.

Handy Hint:
Purchase in large packs (even better if they're on special) to save money.

MINI ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
It's your hen weekend. Guests are preparing to party. And there’s no better kick-off than yelling ‘cheers!’ and knocking back a delicious (or cringeworthy) bev as a group!

Whether you go for pre-made shots or miniature spirits/champagne is up to you, your budget and the drinking preference of the bride (i.e. if she never drinks spirits, add mini bottles of wine or champagne instead; and visa versa).

Handy Hint:
​Save up small glass jars in the lead up to the hen do. Purchase bottles in your drink of choice (wine, champagne, cocktails) and fill each jar. Make sure the lid is closed tight.

Finish it off with a gift tag and twine bow. Or for a more personal touch, attach small wine bottle labels (customised for your party) to each jar.

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Other Hen Party Favour Ideas

GAME CARDS
Hen night games that require some sort of guest input make fab (and cheap) fillers! My absolute FAVOURITE game for this purpose is 'Truth or Dare... with a Twist' (click here to view instructions).

To find the perfect game for your particular party, click here and browse the list.

Click here to view ↑ this ↑ truth or dare printable

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JOKES & RIDDLES
People love to laugh. So this option is not only cheap and easy to put together, but also a great way to get everyone happy and in 'party mode'.

To organise, search for jokes/riddles related to hens parties, relationships and friendship (even some sneaky wedding jokes would work!); then write down the ones that resonate best with your particular bride-to-be/group. In other words, if you have some conservative guests in the mix, don’t choose the raunchiest jokes you can find.

Once you’re happy with your selection, type up the jokes/riddles, print them off, mount them onto card (stick to your party theme colour palette for best results), and place into your loot bags. I recommend providing each guest with their own unique joke/riddle to read out at the beginning of the party – it’s a great ice-breaker.

If you're after a more finished look, you can also opt to have jokes, riddles and even quotes professionally printed onto small cards that suit the occasion. 

Handy Hint:
​For hilarious riddles that will force people's mind into the gutter (but actually have a VERY clean answer!), Check out these 'riddles that sound dirty' #toofunny

LARGE GIFTS
If you have a smaller group or a large budget, more expensive gifts are definitely an option.

Hosting a pamper themed event? Invest in some beautiful robes, dressing gowns or slippers for the bride and her friends. Hosting a Hollywood Glamour themed event? Organise professional makeup for each of the girls (along with some take-home natural makeup products). Treat your gals in a creative way!

Keep In Mind:
Whilst thoughtful and useful, these types of gifts can get quite expensive - especially when you have a large group to buy for.

​PENS OR TEXTAS
Probably not what you were expecting to see on a party bag ideas list, but there’s a great reason behind it!

Back Story:
For my sister’s hen do I wanted to create an extra special and memorable keepsake. To do this, I took her shopping prior to the party for a white dress; one that she wouldn’t use EVER again. On the day of the party, each guest was gifted one coloured permanent marker via their goodie bag, and asked to sign the ‘guest book’ with them. Trick being that the guest book was actually the white dress being worn by our beautiful bride-to-be.

​Throughout the night everyone wrote notes to my sister on her dress; with the messages getting more and more risqué (and the laughs louder and louder) as the night went on.

Handy Hint:
Pens, pencils and textas are great for completing game cards as well as unique keepsakes (such as the one mentioned above). Purchase in bulk (or large packs) for a discounted price, then collect them all after the party to use around the home so they don’t go to waste. Alternatively, ask each guest to bring along a pen/permanent marker from their collection at home.
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PLAY-DOUGH (HOME MADE)
If you're planning on including hen games such as 'moulding' (moulding a man, body parts, etc.!); consider placing balls of play-dough in your goodie bags. 

A great home-made recipe that has been tried and tested by yours truly is on the side of McKenzie's Cream of Tartar containers (no affiliation, just LOVE the result!). Add food colouring in your theme colours to tie everything together.

To view the recipe, click here.
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REUSABLE STRAWS & CUTLERY

A cute filler option that also come in handy throughout the night (sipping on cocktails, digging into delish desserts). However, plastic and paper straws or cutlery are often only used for a couple of hours before going in the bin.

Unless you go the sustainable route!

From bamboo and stainless steel straws, to bamboo cutlery sets, there's a great range of stylish, reusable products out there to suit a variety of budgets.

​​SURVIVAL ITEMS
Items such as hairties and bandaids can come in handy throughout the evening. As does water, small snacks and lip balm.

You can even use a 'Survival Kit' as your actual party bag - a practical option that will be appreciated and used by guests.

​Related: DIY Survival Kit

Pamper Products

​TREAT YOURSELVES

Items such as natural body scrubs, organic lotions, luxe hair products and even natural makeup can be the perfect thank-you for your guests - especially when your celebration is based around pampering.

​If you're interested in hosting your very own pamper night in (to match the gorgeous favours you've organised), click here for inspiration!

Plantable Gifts

MAGIC BEANS
Surprise your guests with a little bit of magic! These fairy-tale beans have words or images engraved on the central pod (their seed), displaying the message as they grow.

And speaking of growing, once planted they will sprout for about a month in their tin. You can then transplant them to your garden where you'll probably be repaid with a flower. It’ll also produce its own seeds if you pop it in the ground, keeping the magic growing forever. In other words... it's a gift that just keeps on giving!
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PLANTS, FLOWERS & SEEDS

Plants make stunning favours that guests can decorate their homes with.

Succulents, cacti, herbs or even growing flowers are great options. If you would prefer something easier to transport, seeds are another wonderful idea (your guests can then grow anything from sunflowers to their own vegetables).

​Make the Bride-to-Be Feel Extra Special

Now that you have some fillers to consider, I want to turn your attention to the guest of honour. She will be appreciative of anything you organise for her (meaning you could simply pass her a bag that's the same as everyone else's); BUT it is fun to spoil your hen; it's her special day, after all!

If treating that bestie of yours is something you would like to do, I recommend grabbing a larger bag and filling it with everything the girls have in theirs (minus the game cards, of course!) plus some extra goodies.

​Fun Accessories

To start with, think along the lines of a custom 'Bride to Be' sash, a beautiful veil, special accessories JUST for your hen (such as a gorgeous headpiece made from real flowers), hints for the night, a gift guaranteed to make her smile (such as the custom face biscuits pictured below, made by the talented team at ‘The Confectionist’), etc.

Meaningful Goodies

​Then, think about gifts that would truly mean the world to her. Would she absolutely LOVE a voucher to her favourite store? A new fruit tree for her garden? Or something a little more personal - such as a keepsake photo album filled with pictures of the bride and each of her guests (along with written memories/well wishes)? 

Get brainstorming with the bridesmaids and/or mother of the bride - together you will be able to come up with something that is perfect for your hen (and she'll love you even more for it)!

Hint:
To help you think of ideas, we've outlined some of our favourite thoughtful gifts below.

Related: Thoughtful Party Ideas

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CONCERT AND/OR THEATRE TICKETS
If there are any bands, singers or plays touring that your bestie would give anything to see, why not purchase 2x tickets as the ultimate surprise? If it's too risky purchasing actual tickets (booking around weddings, honeymoons and everyday life can be hard when it's for yourself, let alone someone else), you can always grab a voucher and let your bride-to-be know what the money is intended for.

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ENGRAVED OR PERSONALISED KEEPSAKES
Is your hen in need of a new watch? Or perhaps she LOVES wearing gorgeous bracelets? Why not purchase a special gift for your best friend and have it engraved - reminding her of the fun she had at her hen's/bridal shower, and of the beautiful people she is surrounded by!

​GIFT VOUCHER
If there's an activity or experience your hen has wanted to do FOREVER, or if you wish to pamper the beautiful bride-to-be, consider including a special gift voucher.

This could be for anything from sky-diving (something she's been talking about doing for a VERY long time) to a pamper session at her local day spa (because every bride can do with some TLC in the lead up to her wedding day).

​GIFT VOUCHER (WITH A TWIST!)
Does your bestie's group of girls have some special talents? Treat your hen with some meaningful vouchers - donated by the ones she loves!

For example, have a hairdresser in the group? Why not create a voucher for a cut and colour? A makeup artist? Gift her a makeup session. A photographer? How about a special photoshoot for the happy couple after their big day?

HOMEMADE GIFT BASKET
Create a truly meaningful gift by asking each of your guests to bake/create something special for your bride-to-be. Muffins, slices, scones, sauces, jams, fresh produce or a knitted rug - any or all of these options would be absolutely perfect!

Alternatively, ask guests to purchase a small gift. Put them all together with some home baked goodies, place them neatly in a stunning basket and present to your bride-to-be at her celebration.

​Related: Bachelorette Gift Basket Ideas

A MEANINGFUL POEM
Get creative with the other bridesmaids and put together a cute (or hilarious!) poem about your hen and her friendship with each of her guests.

Make the task easier by asking everyone to email you details on how they met the hen and what their favourite/funniest memory is with her. Then incorporate this information into the ultimate poetic story.

Print the final copy onto some nice paper and include it in your hen's bag as a fun ice-breaker AND beautiful keepsake.

Other Party Bag Filler Tips

​STICK TO YOUR THEME
If you're planning a themed event, keep it going within your gift bags. Great ways to do this include:

• BAKED GOODS: top cupcakes with icing in your colour palette, or even add on some cute fondant decorations that relate back to your theme
• CHOCOLATES: love hearts suit a 'Love' theme perfectly, whereas chocolate coins are perfect for a 'Police' or 'Cop versus Robbers' party!
• PAMPER PRODUCTS: if you're hosting a 'Robber' themed event, add some black lipstick. Likewise, including red lippy for a 'Vintage' party will not only add to the overall costume, but be a welcome gift that can be used again and again.
• PHOTO PROPS: include props that relate to your theme - for example, tiaras and Disney quotes for a 'Princess' party.​

RECYCLE, REUSE & UPCYCLE WHEN POSSIBLE
​Saves you money, saves unnecessary landfill. If purchasing new products, make sure they're something your guests will use at home and/or items that can be recycled. There are also a great deal of businesses who sell eco-gifts and products that would perfectly suit a hens/shower.

Related: Hosting a Low-Waste Event

Articles Related to These Hens Party Bag Filler Ideas

​ECO PARTY FAVOUR IDEAS:

Coming up with party bag ideas that are not only memorable and useful, but also eco friendly can be a real challenge. The inspiration in this article helps with this. Unique, unexpected, zero waste and/or reusable - these eco gift are bound to delight.

Click here to read the article now.

THE BEST PARTY ​PRIZE IDEAS:

In need of some sneaky prizes for your event? Lucky for you there is definitely no shortage when it comes to fun prize ideas! From home cooked goodies to reusable drinking tools, this list will give you all the inspiration needed to treat those winning guests of yours!

Click here to read the article now.

Enjoy Filling Your Party Bags with Your Favourite Goodies!

Before signing off I want to take a moment to remind you that you don’t need a ridiculous amount of hens night party favours for goodie bags to be a hit. Even one item in a beautiful little box or bag will be received with delight.

And one final tip – whatever you decide to fill your goodie bags with, just make sure it relates to your overall celebration. For example, if you have a pirate theme, gift your guests some skull shaped chocolates. It’s more memorable and builds more excitement that way!

As always, I’d love to see your gift bags in action – so please share your pictures and/or fillers with myself and the rest of the For Every Hen community via the comments section below.

Cheers to an AMAZING celebration with party bags adored by all!

Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
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P.S. The below image is perfect for Pinterest... Go on and share these fun hens party bag filler ideas - you know you want to! :)