Ga-Ga for Goody Bags!

We'll admit it -- we're suckers for a great goody bag. The thrill and anticipation of opening one to see what treasures lay inside makes us feel like we're five again. Whether they hold candy or something a bit more extravagant, goody bags are a treat for all ages. When planning your next gathering, surprise your guests with playful and unique parting gifts that will leave them with sweet reminders of your soiree....

• Replace the usual goody bag with something a bit more inventive -- anything from margarita glasses to small  martini shakers.

• Tie your goody bag swag into the theme of your party. For a tropical bash, consider mini key limes, cocktail umbrellas, and a CD of your favorite beachy tunes.... For a girly get-together, a fragrant votive candle, tea bag, and bath salts.... For a baby shower, adorable baby tattoos and mini pacifier SweetTarts.

• Color-coordinate your gifts -- black-and-white bags filled with black-and-white goodies -- for instant style!

• Check out wedding sites for great personalized favors -- even if you're not saying "I do."

• Instead of just handing everyone a bag as they say their goodbyes, or leaving an array of treats to be haplessly grabbed on the way out the door, reinvent the idea of goody bags by allowing guests to create their own -- and incorporate those special takeaways into the entire evening. Think of it as a goody-bag scavenger hunt! Leave colorful Chinese takeout containers or gift bags around various parts of the house, such as the coffee table, in the kitchen, or on end-tables. Encourage guests to fill them with goodies you've placed in oversized bowls throughout the house. Fill some of these bowls with an array of small items -- such as candies, dried fruits, and chocolates. Other bowls can be filled with everything from mini beauty items (nail polish, lip balm, hand lotion) to quirky novelty items.

Check out these great resources for creative goodies:

• Set of four martini shakers -- Plum Party
• Baby tattoos -- Spoon Sisters
• Candy pacifiers -- Gift For New Baby
• Black-and-white bags -- Oriental Trading
• Chinese takeout containers -- Paper Source