So, you’re hosting a party and stuck on what to give the kiddies to take home as a party bag. I’m sure many of us agree they are probably unnecessary, but unfortunately its very easy to feel obligated to do them when everyone else is handing them out :)

So here are my top 5 alternatives..

1 CREATE SOMETHING TO TAKE HOME

Get the kids to create something during the party, this can be as simple as a mask they colour in and add feathers/decorations to, a beaded necklace or bracelet, or even a fridge frame that they colour in and can later add a pic from the party.

2 NOTEBOOK AND COLOURING SET

How cute is this idea - buy little inexpensive notebooks and crayons, and bundle together to create little packs, they kids will love them and so will their parents. Pic and idea by: http://www.ashleyannphotography.com

3 HAVE A PINATA AND LET THE KIDS FILL UP THEIR OWN PARTY BAG

Create little bags for each guest with their names on them (or provide them with letter stickers and let them decorate their own, as an extra activity) - then set up a pinata and let them fill their own bags!

4 A PRETTY BALLOON

Kids love balloons, so why not let them all take one home at the end of the party. The best part of this idea is that they can be used to decorate the party as well. Either a plain old fashioned balloon fixed to a stick with streamers added for extra prettiness, or a helium filled balloon (add some gold confetti inside for extra wow). Try Kmart for balloon sticks and balloons, or Look Sharp for helium filled balloons. This balloon is from Target, Australia.

5 A THEMED DRINK BOTTLE/CUP

There are heaps of great themed drink bottles and straw style cups out there, these are a great idea, as the kids can use them to drink out of during the party and then take them home with them. You could even fill them up with some wrapped lollies to take home. These ones are from Kmart NZ.

Hello ,

I’m so pleased that you have taken the time to stop in and read my first blog - this is really just a quick one to introduce myself and tell you a little about The Pretty Collective and how I hope it can help you..

So, I am Catherine, a mother to three kids, a wife, and a dabbler in all things creative. As long as I can remember I have been drawn to creating, making some horrible handmade xmas gifts, cards and creations for my poor grandparents and family members… but it’s something I’ve stuck with and enjoyed, and hopefully I’ve got a bit better in the process!!

The Pretty Collective provides a small range of hire items that are mostly handmade by me, my hope is that they provide an easy way for you to put together a special occasion with minimal stress, and without having to do all the running around. I’d love to help you create something that brings you and your special people lots of joy, and makes some special memories as well.

I also love to create one-offs, wreaths, paper flowers, decor items and I am happy to custom make designs on request. I would love to help fill your spaces, be it a nursery, office, or business with a few key pieces that make you smile.

Thanks for stopping by and please feel free to get in touch if there’s something I can help with!