I have been wanting to host a favorite things party for quite some time, and since 2018 is all about checking things off of my to-do list, I decided to put my plan into motion. And what better timing than around Valentine’s Day to have a little ‘treat yo self’ moment with friends?!

Originally I was going to host, but when I got word that one of my favorite local restaurants was closing soon, we made an early reservation and picked a date.

The wine was flowing and our orders had been placed, then the real fun began! Here are what the other lovely ladies brought to share:
matches + figuring from a fave local store, Boxwoods Fine Furnishings
original piece from local artist, Emily Stumpf

tote made of recycled saris from Mahima Creations 
J.Crew sunglasses (similar)
Chef’n stem gem + mini Capri Blue Jar Candle
Chef’n Veggichop vegetable chopper

Vasanti BrightenUp! face rejuvenator + que bella eye masks + MojaWorks face towelslocal goodies that can all be purchased at Dogpatch Urban Gardens
Heartland Burrito + Clear Creek Orchard jam + Pickle Creek oil + Zaza’s artisan pasta + Juan O’Sullivan’s salsa

So much good stuff here that I forgot to take photos of what I gave out as my favorite things!

First up, my ‘wear every single freaking day” eye shadow – Nude Glow by Maybelline. The second thing I gifted was a must-have for Iowa’s long winter months – Kiehl’s ultimate strength hand salve. And finally, a new fave for me – this absolutely darling tissue box cover shaped like a house from Umbra!

The nice thing about having a 4:15 dinner reservation? Having time to pop next door to Bubba for a night cap! Oh yeah, and another new favorite of mine are these jeans from Madewell. I don’t think I took them off all weekend!