I know, I know…I make lots of references to Oprah in my blog, but can we all just agree that her Favorite Things episode each year was the stuff dreams were made of? Unless you’re an ex-Amish, I’m guessing you’ve at least heard of what I’m talking about.

Here’s a briefing for my “Rumspringa Gone Wild” friends. Each year around Christmas, Oprah would compile a list of her favorite things and would surprise her audience with one of each item on her list. Picture getting to go to a taping of the Oprah Show, which is rad in itself; and then being surprised by learning you hit the jackpot by being part of the most anticipated show of the year. The best analogy I can think of would be Charlie winning the golden ticket to tour Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, except she gave gifts that ranged from plush blankets to diamond watches to cruises. Sign me up, right?

As a spinoff from the show, my family and I started having a Favorite Things Party each year around Christmas. There are about seven of us that participate between my sisters, mother, aunt, and girl cousins. This time around was our sixth year doing it, and it’s something we always look forward to. We take turns hosting the party. It includes brunch or dinner, desserts, drinks and lots of laughs and good times. Plus, you walk away with some unique gifts from each guest.

Here’s some highlights from our party this year that I hosted. We had a brunch that included Christmas Mimosas, Quiche Lorraine, sausage balls, a fruit tray with dip, Sunrise Muffins, and peanut butter balls. All of the recipes I found on Pinterest, and they didn’t disappoint!

So here’s how it works. You need to know an exact number of those coming to the party, so R.S.V.P.’s are a must. If your friend or family member can be a flake, you gotta lay down the law for this party and hold them to it! You don’t want to get stuck buying a bunch of extra gifts that won’t be used. Also, you want to keep your number of invites on the lower side unless you’re a Hilton. If you are, then invite away! You’ll all agree on a price limit for the gifts. For ours, we try to stay around a $10-$15 gift. Then with much thought and consideration, you choose something you love in that price range and buy one for each guest.

Over the years, I have received everything from food items to candles or picture frames, to beauty products to gift cards to accessories. You just want to keep it a surprise from the other guests until they open your gift. We take turns passing out our gifts, while giving the story on why the item is so special to us. You may need to give tips or advice on how to use it best. Don’t worry if you need to B. S. your way through this part because some things need no explanation.

Here’s my favorite things gifts this year. I did a candle that smells amazing and topped my package with an ornament, which always makes a cute addition to any gift.

Long story short—it’s so much fun, and I think you’d love it too! I’ve received so many gifts that were items I’d never heard of that have become something I buy for myself routinely. So a gift you receive just may become your new favorite thing so be prepared!

Thanks for stopping in and until next time! Happy Holidays! xo, Christy