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 werent 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 the perfect gift. Not only are the ideas below unique and unexpected, but they're also zero waste and/or reusable (meaning they'll benefit the environment as well as party goers in their everyday lives)! This article probably contains affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link below. Please see our Disclaimer for more info :) ​Related: Eco Party Tips 
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If You Want to Include a Thank-You Card:
OPT FOR SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS
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!
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!
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DOWNLOADABLE, PRINTABLE PRODUCTS
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.
At For Every Hen we have a range of printable products - with a percentage of each sale going towards planting trees around the world! Learn more here.
At For Every Hen we have a range of printable products - with a percentage of each sale going towards planting trees around the world! Learn more here.
The Best Eco Friendly Gift Ideas for Your Guests
Edible Gift Ideas
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, jams, 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.
Handy Gift Ideas
REUSABLE STRAWS
It's not unusual to see straws in hen party gift bags. They're a cute, 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?
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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!
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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!
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 Turtle & Me's wonderful missions).
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!
Living Gift Ideas
​FLOWER, FRUIT & VEGETABLE SEEDS
Seeds of any kind make such a beautiful gift. Not only because they continue to grow and can 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 in little pots. You could even go one step further and plant the seeds, making them a cute 'Pot Luck' type favour (pun intended!). Guests won't know the flower they've chosen until it has actually grown - oh the fun and 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!
What's more, they can be gifted in unique ways.
Flower seeds, for example, could be given in little pots. You could even go one step further and plant the seeds, making them a cute 'Pot Luck' type favour (pun intended!). Guests won't know the flower they've chosen until it has actually grown - oh the fun and 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
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.
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!
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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).
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
​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 table at your event look absolutely stunning. In other words, they are a gift that everyone will remember (for all the right reasons!).
HANDY TIP:
The best eco-friendly gifts have more than one use!
Succulents, herbs and flowers can be planted ahead of time into recycled glass jars (collect them from friends, family and your home - they add up quickly). These beauties can then be used as table decoration at your event, and then handed to guests to take home as favours at the end. Win/win!
The best eco-friendly gifts have more than one use!
Succulents, herbs and flowers can be planted ahead of time into recycled glass jars (collect them from friends, family and your home - they add up quickly). These beauties can then be used as table decoration at your event, and then handed to guests to take home as favours at the end. Win/win!
Pamper Gift Ideas
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?!
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.
NATURAL LIP BALM
Get those lips feeling soft and hydrated with a luxurious natural lip balm. A useful favor that your gals will be drawn to throughout the day and night; gift at the start of the party so that it can be whipped out when needed!
THE GIFT OF GIVING
Rather than gifting physical products, why not donate to your bride-to-be's favourite charity instead? You may like to hand each guest a plantable card outlining the amount donated in their name and a description of the charity/why your hen wants to support it.
Another option is planting a tree for each guest (click here to learn more).
Rather than gifting physical products, why not donate to your bride-to-be's favourite charity instead? You may like to hand each guest a plantable card outlining the amount donated in their name and a description of the charity/why your hen wants to support it.
Another option is planting a tree for each guest (click here to learn more).
Eco Friendly Gifts for the 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!
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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!
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Edible 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 fiancé'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!
Related: Bachelorette Gift Basket Ideas
Related: Bachelorette Gift Basket Ideas
Experience Gifts
CONCERT, FESTIVAL 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!
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GIFT CARDS & VOUCHERS
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?! ​
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?! ​
Handy Gifts
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 they make your fridge look like a colourful party at the same time).
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 they 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.
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REUSABLE COFFEE 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 best friend's day-to-day life.
​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 best friend's day-to-day life.
REUSABLE WATER 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' will allow your hen to enjoy water, cocktails AND coffee, the three drinks of choice when it comes 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.
The 'Rolla Bottle' will allow your hen to enjoy water, cocktails AND coffee, the three drinks of choice when it comes 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.
Living Gifts
ECO GIFT PACKS
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 becuase 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!).
Create your own or purchase from a beautiful small business - this gift will be appreciated either way.
And becuase 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!).
Create your own or purchase from a beautiful small business - this gift will be appreciated either way.
GREEN THUMB GIFTS
With many health benefits (such as purifying the air), 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), good luck (such as bamboo) and/or indoor plants that aren't too hard to care for are best for gifting.
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), good luck (such as bamboo) and/or indoor plants that aren't too hard to care for are best for gifting.
Pamper Gifts
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.
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 clay masks and handmade soap, your beautiful best friend will be enjoying the ultimate in relaxation in no time!
Articles Related to Green Gifts
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SERVING FOOD & DRINKS:
When hosting an event, food and drink is sure to feature. Sadly, one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted. Food and drinks are also one of the main sources of plastic waste each year. Luckily, your can steer clear of these stats with a little sustainable party planning! |
We Hope Your Hen & Her Eco Conscious Friends Love Their Sustainable Gifts!
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 one of the eco friendly products on this list but it won't work for your gift bags, you can use it as a prize instead!
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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 one of the eco friendly products on this list but it won't work for your gift bags, you can use it as a prize instead!
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​P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THIS ECO-FRIENDLY GIFT GUIDE - AND HELP OTHERS CELEBRATE INA SUSTAINABLE WAY! :-)
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