Party Souvenirs: Consumables VS. Non-edibles

Let’s face it. One of the reasons why we love going to parties is the freebie. But although party souvenirs are not our main reason of going to an event, they are a good way to make the party memorable.

I’ve received different types of giveaways and souvenirs - from the very usual figurine and ref magnets to the delectable mini cakes, cookie baskets and candy boxes. And from all the souvenirs I received, I can classify them into two categories - the edibles and the non edibles.

There is really no rule when it comes to party giveaways and both edible and non edible souvenirs are acceptable. But both types have their own pros and cons.

Non-Edibles

The general purpose of a party souvenir or give away is to serve as reminder to the guest of the event that took place, and of course what better way to achieve this than to provide everyone with non perishable items like figurine displays and mini dolls. At home, we have a glass cabinet where we place all the souvenirs from the 18th birthday parties, wedding anniversaries and christening parties we attended, and because they’re just too many, I think we might need more cabinets!

When I look at a particular souvenir in that cabinet, I always remember the time I went to that particular event. But the downside to receiving such giveaways is the fact that I have no use for them and I might throw them away at some point. If you are a sentimental person, it’s not easy to keep away something given to you. If you want to save space and be practical, you might just store those souvenirs in the attic never to be opened again until the next party comes. Consequently, you yourself might opt for other souvenir options if you are going to have your own party.

Displays are the most common non edible souvenirs in 18th birthday parties. If you want to give away one-of-a-kind memorabilia, choose something that your guests can also use like box containers, mouse pads, bag tags, paperweights, USB disks, mini bags and key holders. I myself get more excited when I receive such items because I know I can use them and I won’t be wasting space in my room for an additional display.

Edibles and other consumables

Edible souvenirs like cookies, mint candies in container boxes, tea leaves and mini cakes satisfy the palate of your guests when they get home from your party. Other consumable items that are given away at most events include scented lotion, bath soap, liquid soap, exotic oil, one-of-a-kind coffee and wine.

Consumable giveaways leave a good impression on your guests. These items are excellent party giveaways because they can be used. But their advantage is also their own downside. Since these souvenirs can be consumed, there won’t be anything left for the guest to remember you or your party.

If you’re thinking of giving away consumable items as souvenirs, make sure to create a balance by attaching something that can be kept by your guests. You can attach your mini cake with a carved wooden tag with your name and message engraved on it so that when your visitors are done with the cake, they still have a keepsake from your party, aside from the crumbs that are left for the ants to feed on.

When giving away edible souvenirs, make sure that your guests know that they can be eaten. Once, I attended an 18th birthday party that gave away display figurines of a ballerina. After a few days, ants were surrounding it and I found something melting underneath the item. It was too late when I realized that the figurine was actually a container with candies in it. I still got to eat some of the un-melted ones, but the worse part was having to clean up the sticky residue it left on our glass cabinet.

Other party souvenir ideas:

Giveaways can be as personal as you want them to be. Since it’s your event, you are the star of your show, as well as your giveaways and party favors!

How about giving away a compilation of your favorite songs? By adding a personal touch, you’re also making a statement and exuding your personality to the world. Have a customized unique design printed directly on the Music CD and place it on a CD sleeve printed with a label that says “Thank you for coming!”

A friend of ours who is also a good pianist recently had her 18th birthday party. She gave away a CD compilation of the classical pieces she recorded! Through this souvenir, she was able to showcase her talent to her friends and family.

Think of something memorable you can give your guests. Debutantes shouldn’t miss this chance to be as creative as they can be!

MINI CAKE