Most amateur party planners automatically assume party favors are just for weddings. Think again! One way to liven up the festivities -- whether it’s an anniversary, baby shower, birthday party, bridal shower, graduation party, or quinceanera -- is with functional, affordable party favors. Continue reading to discover some unique party favor ideas for your next get together.

One of the many things a bride has to consider is the favors that will adorn the tabletops at her reception. Since party favors are usually marketed to brides, however, most party planners bypass the charming addition that they make for any occasion. Affordably priced and useful, party favors help liven up a gathering, and party planners who want to add a little panache incorporate their various party favor ideas into a celebration to provide guests with a special memento. And regardless of the nature of the gathering, just remember that party favors are no longer solely meant for weddings. Here are some party favor ideas to get you thinking creatively!

Anniversary: Whether it's the first or the fiftieth time, celebrating the bonds of marriage is a special affair for both the couple and their family members. Often, anniversary celebrations are thrown secretly for the couple, who have no hand in its planning. Friends and family choose the cake or dessert, the decorations, and invitations; occasionally, they also choose to incorporate party favors into the festivities, which are always a big hit. Anniversary favors, usually a spin-off from wedding favors, herald love in all its forms and are available in a variety of different styles, colors, and shapes; popular party favor ideas include handy wine bottle stoppers, personalized champagne flutes (so everyone can toast the happily married couple!), and always useful barware sets.

Baby Shower: It's an exciting, but hectic time when it comes to being a mother, and everyone wants to help out by providing assistance, advice, gifts, and, of course, by throwing a baby shower for the mom-to-be! With trays of delicious finger foods and cute baby gifts, the expectant mother and her friends celebrate the momentous occasion. And the perfect way to decorate each attendee's spot at the table is with functional baby shower party favors, such as cheese graters, salt and pepper shakers, measuring spoons, and timers - all of which have a fun, festive baby shower theme.