PARTY BAG IDEAS – DELIGHT YOUR GUESTS WITH ECO GIFTS!

AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
A take-home goodie bag is such a wonderful way to show your guests (and bride-to-be!) just how much you appreciate them. After all, celebrating such a milestone wouldn’t be anywhere near as fun if your nearest and dearest weren’t able to attend. However, coming up with party bag ideas that are not only memorable and useful, but also eco friendly can be a real challenge.
​
With the inspiration provided below, though, you’ll have no problem delighting your guests with eco gifts that are not only unique and unexpected, but also zero waste and/or reusable (meaning they’ll benefit the environment as well as party goers in their everyday lives)!

THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.​

LET'S START WITH THE PARTY BAGS...

ECOSILK REUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS
★Click here for Ecosilk Bag images & product details★
Available in a range of fun, bright colours (making it easy to match them to your overall event theme and/or colour palette), these gorgeous Ecosilk Bags not only look great, but are also fantastic for holding bigger gifts or lots of little goodies. And when the party's over? They will easily slot into your guests' everyday lives as they can be used for anything from grocery and clothes shopping to a stylish weekend travel bag!

PERSONALISED BAGS BY BEAUTIFUL BOXES
Want to make things personal? Designed to be re-used, these gorgeous calico bags can be printed with any wording you desire! From names to cute sayings (such as a 'bride tribe' type slogan or a quote your hen says quote often), these will not only be appreciated when received at the actual celebration, but will also be fondly used after the event. Click here to view their entire range.
​

REUSABLE ECOSILK MINI DRAWSTRING BAGS
★Click here for Ecosilk Mini Drawstring Bag images & product details★
Planning on gifting a couple of smaller items such as chocolates, jewellery or little, organic pamper products? The adorable mini bags from Ecosilk could be your ideal packaging option! They're soft to the touch, super cute, and come in the same fun, bright colours as their larger counterparts (mentioned earlier). Following the event, guests can continue to enjoy the convenience of their little bags as they're also great for securing everyday items such as keys, money, credit cards, makeup and more. In fact, mine has become a staple glove-box item - the struggle to find coins in the car is no longer real!

IF YOU WANT TO INCLUDE A THANK-YOU CARD:

SUSTAINABLE, PLANTABLE CARDS
★Click here for a range of beautiful, seeded options★
If you would like to add a sustainable card to your gift bags or boxes, I definitely recommend taking a look at 'plantable cards' (also known as 'seeded cards' or 'seeded paper'). Unlike anything your guests have received before, these types of cards are created with recycled paper and embedded with seeds. This means recipients can read your words and then plant their cards in the garden, ready to watch their (surprise) flowers grow!

STUNNING DOWNLOADABLE, PRINTABLE PRODUCTS
★Click here for a beautiful range of downloadable, editable gift tags★
Bring your theme to life with editable, professionally designed tags, itineraries and/or game cards. But how do you do this in an eco-friendly way? Simple! Purchase a printable product, customise it with your party details, and then have them printed onto recycled paper or card!

PARTY BAG IDEAS: ECO FRIENDLY PRODUCTS TO GIFT YOUR GUESTS

BEAUTIFUL BISCUITS
Biscuits are not only delish, but also the perfect way to add a pop of colour and/or themed fun to your eco gift bags! What's more, if you put a bit of thought into the overall design (i.e. personalise with a cute message, use an image that means the world to your best friend, etc.), they will bring an unexpected and truly beautiful touch to the event.

If you're looking to treat your guests in this way, 'The Confectionist' is a business you MUST check out! Priding themselves on their 'ability to turn absolutely anything into a biscuit', your options for design are endless. Think of the possibilities!
​

HOME-BAKED GOODIES
Is there someone in the bridal party who is a bit of a pro in the kitchen? If the answer is yes, then whipping up some delicious home-baked goodies is a fantastic (and fairly cheap, depending on what you make) favour option. After all, nothing shows love quite like bread, muffins, cupcakes, cakes, cookies, slices or even salsa made from scratch!

And the best part? Home-baked goodness can easily be matched to your overall event theme. Are you hosting a pink party, for example? Use different shades of pink icing on your cupcakes. What about an angel & devil theme? Gift your guests some delicious red salsa in cute, glass jars! Partying in boho style? Add some stunning edible flowers to your treats.

---

REUSABLE STRAWS
It’s not unusual to see straws in hen party gift bags – they’re cute, a cheap filler option and handy for sipping on throughout the event. However, they are often plastic and only used for a couple of hours before going in the bin.  Avoid unnecessary landfill by incorporating eco-friendly alternatives instead! But other than recyclable paper straws, what ARE your options?

First, there are reusable bamboo straws.
Made from natural, durable bamboo, they are ideal for all kinds of cold drinks. And whilst they can be cleaned and used again and again, should you ever need to dispose of them they are also fully biodegradable in the compost or garden! For more information, click here.

Second, there are reusable stainless steel straws.
Also fantastic for all kinds of cold drinks, these straws are made from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel. And if you ever need to dispose of them? They are fully recyclable!

And finally, my FAVE option - colourful stainless steel straws!
Specialising in bright and fun options (including rose gold, rainbow and gold), these straws make the perfect addition to any kind of celebration (whilst simultaneously encouraging people to change their lifestyle habits - which is just one of Tutle & Me's wonderful missions)! Click here to view the whole colourful range.

SPORKS
★Click here to learn more about Bamboo Sporks★
A cute (and convenient) gift idea that can be used throughout the party and in your guests' day-to-day lives! A 'spork' combines a spoon with a fork, making them the perfect utensil for eating at parties, work or even when out and about. Washable, anti-bacterial and compostable (when you feel it's at the end of its lifespan), bamboo sporks are a plastic-free, zero waste gift that is extremely handy!

---

FLOWER, FRUIT & VEGETABLE SEEDS
★Click here to view gorgeous seed pack favours★
Seeds of any kind make such a beautiful gift! Not only because they continue to grow and can thus be enjoyed long after the celebration has ended, but because they’ll also bring back wonderful memories every time a guest looks at them.

What’s more, they can be gifted in unique ways.

Flower seeds, for example, could be given to your guests in little pots. You could even go one step further and actually plant the seeds, making them a cute little ‘Pot Luck’ favour (pun intended!). This means they won’t know the flower they’ve chosen until it has actually grown – oh the anticipation!
​
Fruit and vegetable seeds can be gifted in much the same way; placing the packets in eco-friendly bags or adorable little trays (that guests can go on to grow them in). Once again, there’s also the option of ‘Pot Luck’ favours, whereby you gift guests seeds that have already been planted. Choosing a tray at random and finding out what their fruit or vegetable plant is only once it’s sprouted all being part of the fun!
​

HERBS
★Click here to view gorgeous herb pack favours★
Like flower and vegetable seeds, herbs are the gift that just keeps on giving – growing and providing flavour to meals long after the party is over. There are a few great ways to gift herbs. Adding packets to gift bags or pots (as mentioned above) is one option, as is planting herb seeds and allowing guests to pick their ‘surprise’ pot at random. Then there are organic Herb Garden Kits; already packed in stylish favour boxes, they come with everything you need to grow herbs at home!

MAGIC BEANS
Who doesn't enjoy a bit of 'magic'?! These adorable beans have words or images engraved on the central pod (their seed), meaning they will display a message as they grow. And speaking of growing, once planted your magic bean plant will sprout for about a month in their tin, at which point you can transplant it to your garden (where it will probably flower!).  It’ll also produce its own seeds if you pop it in the ground. Easy party bag ideas that are fun, unique and lasting!
​

SEED BOMBS
Seed bombs are basically little balls made up of soil, seeds, clay and water that, when you're ready, will grow flowers wherever you throw them! If you love a bit of DIY, seed bombs can be made at home (see instructions here).

However, if you don't have the time to create these little balls of life yourself, I recommend taking a look at 'The Bee Sitters'. They make and sell seed bombs that are not only affordable, but will also be loved by the bees and butterflies as much as your guests! Click here to view them now. Alternatively, if you would like to stick to the party spirit, it's definitely worth looking into these cocktail mix seed bombs. They will grow into beautiful garnishes that can be used at later events!

SUCCULENTS
★Click here for an amazing range of succulent favours★
Succulents - they are beautiful, easy to look after (always a good trait in living gifts), can be kept indoors or outdoors, and will make the favour tabel at your event look absolutely stunning! In other words, they are a gift that everyone will remember (for all the right reasons!).

---

NATURAL BODY SCRUBS
Add a touch of luxury to your goodie bags with some stunning, natural body scrubs. Used to cleanse and exfoliate, such a gift will leave your guests with the most beautiful, baby-soft skin – and honestly, who can say no to that?!

For those looking to indulge in this way, Freya's Nourishment has a range of gorgeous, cruelty free, natural body scrubs that are both gentle and nourishing. And whilst you probably know that body scrubs are great for, well, the body; the Coconut and Coffee Body Scrub (pictured below) is also fantastic for your lips, feet and hair!

NATURAL HANDMADE SOAP
A very affordable way to treat your friends to some pampered goodness is by including beautiful, handmade natural soaps in their party bags. Available in a range of colours, shapes, sizes and fragrances, it's a favour you can have a bit of fun with (for example, match the soap colour with your overall party colour palette for instant themed gifts!).

When it comes to natural, handmade soap, we're loving the sample packs created by 'Byanne Soaps'! Absolutely perfect for favours, each pack comes with 8 individually wrapped soaps ready to hand out at your event. To view the beautiful samples we're talking about, click here. Alternatively, check out their entire range by clicking here.

---

ECO FRIENDLY GIFTS FOR YOUR BRIDE-TO-BE

​Whilst the above options would also make great gifts for your bride-to-be, I’ve always liked to give the guest of honour the same thing as her friends... plus a little something extra. It is her special day after all!
​
If you’re looking to do just that, you’ll love the section below. Dedicated to stunning, eco-gifts that do cost a bit more than those mentioned above (and therefore aren’t recommended for each and every guest, unless you have a large budget!); these products are PERFECT for treating your beautiful best friend on a day dedicated to spoiling her!

Handy Hint: click here for six eco-friendly ways you can wrap your bride-to-be's gifts.

BISCUITS... WITH A TWIST!
Whilst the biscuits mentioned earlier would make an absolutely beautiful surprise for your best friend, 'The Confectionist' also offer a way to take gifting one step further... with life-size face biscuits!

Whether you have your bride-to-be's face turned into a delicious treat, or present her with a life-sized edible snack of her fiance's face ("hubby" on the hens - imagine the photos!), these gifts are '100% guaranteed to strike a giggle!'. ​Learn more by clicking here.

On the other hand, if a collection of themed biscuits is more your style, they also offer beautiful, hand-painted tins filled with biscuits fit for a bride! Once the contents have been devoured, your bestie will be left with a gorgeous keepsake tin that can be filled with photos, cards and other memories from her hen's party or bridal shower. ​Click here to learn more.

​HOMEMADE GIFT BASKET
Create a truly meaningful gift by asking each of your guests to bake/create something special for your bride-to-be. This could be anything from muffins, slices, scones, sauces and jams to fresh produce or a knitted rug. Alternatively, you could ask guests to purchase a small eco-gift (such as those on this list). Put them together with some home baked goodies, place them neatly in a stunning basket and present to your bride-to-be at her celebration!

---

CONCERT OR THEATRE TICKETS
If there is a band, singer or even play touring that your bride-to-be would give anything to see, why not purchase 2x tickets as the ultimate surprise (it's then up to her whether or not she takes her new husband or a friend)?! If you are booking a particular date, make sure it's nowhere near the wedding or honeymoon. If it's too risky purchasing actual tickets, you can always grab a voucher and let your bride-to-be know what the money is intended for!
​

GIFT VOUCHER
If there are any activities or experiences your bride-to-be has wanted to do FOREVER (anything from sky-diving to a pamper sesh at her local day spa) a special gift voucher could be the ideal option.

Alternatively, if your best friend's group of girls have some special talents (such as makeup artist, photographer, etc.) treat your hen to some meaningful vouchers instead. For example, have a hairdresser and photographer in the group? Why not organise a cut, colour and photoshoot for the bride and her husband/family?! 

---

BEESWAX WRAPS
★Click here to view a beautiful range of beeswax wraps★
Who knew wraps could be so much fun?! Available in a range of funky colours and patterns, Beeswax Food Wraps make a reasonably priced, environmentally friendly gift that will become a kitchen fave! Fantastic for covering leftover dinner, large salad bowls, sandwiches, cut vegetables and more, these reusable food wraps are the perfect alternative to plastic wrap (and make your fridge look like a colourful party at the same time)!

​CUSTOM BOXES
Whether you're after a unique way to 'wrap' gifts for your bride-to-be, or a personalised way for your best friend to store those precious memories from her special day (such as photos, ticket stubs, letters and more), custom boxes are definitely something you should look into.

The ideal way to create an unforgettable gifting experience, these beautiful boxes will show your bride-to-be how much her friends love her.
​Click here to learn more.
​

DECORATIVE WOODEN VASES
★Click here for more photos & info on these beautiful vases★
I adore anything rustic. The charm, the character, the uniqueness of each piece. And if your best friend is anything like me, she is going to LOVE this gift option! Carefully handmade in a private woodworking shop, these stunning wooden vases are one of those wonderful, versatile products products that everyone can't help but admire (trust me, they're in our house and they're a hit!).

Handy hint: These stunning vases can be used as part of your event decor, and then presented to your bride-to-be once the celebration is over. They can then be displayed around her home - a beautiful memento from her special day that will bring a smile to her face every time she looks at them!

REUSABLE COFFEE CUP
★Click here to view a gorgeous, personalized keep cup★
For the girl who loves her coffee, tea, hot chocolate or even smoothies, there's no better gift than a reusable coffee cup that can be taken EVERYWHERE with her! Available in a range of fun, bright colours and finishes (such as glass and stainless steel), these chic alternatives to takeaway cups will fast become a staple in your bestie's day-to-day life!

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
★Click here to learn more about the 'Rolla Bottle'★
Reusable water bottles are a great gift as they help reduce plastic waste and are something we can all use in our everyday lives. But what if I told you there was a bottle out there that is also perfectly geared towards hen parties? The 'Rolla Bottle'!

The 'Rolla Bottle' will allow your hen to enjoy water, cocktails AND coffee, the three drinks of choice when it come to partying with the girls (and the morning after)! And when they're empty and you're not using them? They can roll up to a fraction of their size and be stashed away in your handbag until the next cocktail on the go is required. Once the party is over, the Rolla Bottle will easily slot into your bride-to-be's life as it's so easy to carry around and care for!

---

ECO GIFT PACKS
★Click here to view a range of stunning eco gift hampers★
There is something special about receiving a gift pack that has been chosen especially for you. The anticipation, the layers, the thoughtful notes - unveiling the contents is a wonderful experience in itself. And because such a gift does bring so much joy, it's a fantastic way to spoil your best friend at her hen party, bridal shower or kitchen tea (the fact that they're also eco friendly is an added bonus!).

GREEN THUMB GIFTS
★Click here for indoor plant gift inspiration★
With many health benefits (such as purifying the air - click here for more information), plants make a fantastic, sustainable gift option that can be enjoyed for many, many years to come! And because of this, they also make a lovely reminder of the day they were received (in this case, the pre-wedding celebrations).

When it comes to plants there are plenty to choose from; however I have found in the past that edible (such as lemon trees, olive trees and potted strawberries), lick (such as bamboo) and/or indoor plants are best for gifting.

---

NATURAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS
When it comes to your closest friend, she deserves the best of the best; and what better way to spoil her than with a selection of luxe, all-natural beauty products? From relaxing bath/foot salts (that are great for your hair and bone health, among other things) to beautiful scrubs (like those mentioned earlier), there are so many ways to make the bride-to-be feel special.

If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to pamper gift ideas, I recommend, from experience, looking into the Freya’s Nourishment range. Combining luxury with living consciously, products such as the Hydrating Body Oil (designed to leave you feeling ‘thoroughly hydrated, yet smooth and supple’) and Rose Hand Scrub (a wonderful scrub that softens skin, protects against wrinkles, helps relieve eczema and more) ooze sophistication and have the added benefits of physical and emotional healing qualities. To me, these factors alone make both products a great option for any soon-to-be bride!

PAMPER PRODUCTS
Everyone deserves to be pampered - especially when there's a wedding in the equation! So why not treat your gorgeous bride-to-be with some beautiful, organic pamper products to use in the lead-up to her big day? From vegan coco-rose bath soak and organic lip balm, to pink lavender clay masks and handmade soap, your beautiful best friend will be enjoying the ultimate in relaxation in no time!

---

ARTICLE RELATED TO ECO GIFTS:
If you enjoyed the eco gifts inspiration in this article, we think you will also love the following low-waste party ideas! From the invitations through to the decorations, there are eco-friendly party tips for every part of your celebration. Click here to read the article now.

---

ENJOY YOUR ECO-FRIENDLY PARTY!

There you have it, whether it be wedding favors, party favour ideas, or hens goodie bag ideas - this list of absolutely gorgeous eco gifts are bound to make any guest's day! And remember, when putting them together you don't actually need a ridiculous amount of fillers. One beautiful item (either or its own or in a bag/box) can be more than enough!

I hope you have a fantastic time at your celebration! Please let us know how your favours turned out (or what you did at your event) via the comments section below or social media. I LOVE hearing your stories, as do the other For Every Hen community members!

Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
​(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)

Hot Tip: If you love a product on this list but it won't work for your gift bags, you can use it as a gorgeous eco-prize instead!

CLICK FOR FREE PRINTABLES!

P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE STUNNING ECO GIFT IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)