14 goodie bags with a twist

Kids can connect with the planet with this eco-friendly party favour. Get the instructions here

These personalized goodies from Toronto-based custom cookie company Dolce Custom Cookies can be couriered anywhere in Canada and the States. Try your own version at home or check in with your local bakery for an order made to your specs. What kid won't love going home with a sugar cookie? Get more informtaion at etsy.com

There couldn’t be a cuter way to thank guests for attending your summer party than with these beach kits. Get the instructions here

What better way to say thanks than giving out a loot bag book? Keep costs down by choosing paperbacks over hardcovers. And watch for sales at your favourite bookstores. 

Be ready with some titles from our incredible list The 100 best Canadian kids’ books of all time.

Bubbles are always a hit with kids—especially the younger set. Add a personal touch by making your own wands. Get the instructions for our bubble wands here

Mabel’s Labels Loot Bag combos include six personalized sets of sticky labels and one bag tag. All you need is a little lead time and a reliable guest list. What’s not to love? Get more information at mabelslabels.com

These vintage-style popcorn containers are available at many discount stores. Add some kernels and a pair of 3D glasses to complete this entertainment-themed party favour.

Incorporate your loot bags into a hands-on party activity with this make-and-take idea. Create tie-dyed socks or t-shirts for inexpensive fun that will long outlast the party. Get instructions at bystephanielynn.com

If you're catering to an artsy crowd, these easy and super-cute stamps fit the bill. Get the instructions here

Have you ever met a kid who didn't love to colour? Rather than going out and purchasing packs of crayons, make use of all the broken pieces you have kicking around to form these super-cool moulds. Get the instructions here

Use the hoard of jars you've been saving to create adorbs reuseable loot and fill them with whatever you like—candy, rubber balls, slinkies, Shopkins. The possibilities are endless.

Hey Party Planner, you've been working hard! Enlist the help of little guests to make their own loot in this fun activity. Set up a candy bar and let the kids assemble their candy skewers. Yum!

The fun doesn't have to end when the party's finished. Send mini chefs home with their own cookie kit to keep the party going at home. Get the instructions here

Consider a donation to a charity of the birthday honouree’s choice in lieu of, or in addition to, your loot bags. Maybe give each child a balloon with a note attached that explains the donation and thanks them for coming. Chances are, your child’s party will have been a blast, and everyone will go home happy to just to have been invited in the first place.

Originally published in March 2014

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