When my daughter left for college I made an “open when” box a fun spin on a care package that keeps on caring throughout the year. It was filled with envelopes that held little treats–like a gift card to an ice cream shop in an envelope marked “Open when..you want to treat a friend.”
The box was such a big hit that I also started to make “Open When” envelopes as favors for party guests when I entertain. I fill a bowl with “Open When” envelopes each holding a treat. On their way out, guests grab one to take home with them. It’s a fun easy way to bring joy to your friends and family long after a party is over.
To make “Open When” favors, just gather a bunch of envelopes (I chose gold ones to be festive), download our “Open When” templates, print them out onto note paper, and attach them to the back of the envelopes with double stick tape. Then, fill the envelopes with little surprises–lottery tickets, gift cards, fortunes, supportive messages, silly photos–making sure the instruction on the envelope match the surprise on the inside. Or, write instructions on the envelopes yourself: “Open When”…”you’re feeling lucky,” “you need a pick-me-up,” “you need inspiration,” “you could use a good laugh.” Then fill them, put the envelopes in a box or bowl and have each party guest pick one up on their way out, to keep the celebration going long after the night end.
Open When Card Ideas
You’re feeling lucky — scratch-off lottery tickets
You get caught in the rain — rain poncho
You want to keep in touch — postcard and stamps
You need a good laugh — a printed joke
You have a clear vision — a glasses cleaning cloth
You get scraped up — a Band-Aid
You need a pick me up — Starbucks gift card
You get a little dirty — stain remover
The hangover hits — Advil single serving pouch
You need a head-scratcher — crossword puzzle
You need advice — red fortune fish
You need a light — flat matchbook
You need to freshen up — mints
You need to see beauty — a compact mirror
You need a touch up — blotting paper
You need to relax — tea bag
You need to mark your place — bookmark
You get cold feet — socks
You feel a little salty — sliding salt tin
What You’ll Need
- Envelopes
- Note cards
- Double sided tape
- Our template
- Assorted items to fill the envelope
How- To
Step One: Download our “open when” templates, print, and cut out.
Step Two: Attach “open when” card to the back of the envelope with double-sided tape
Step Three: Fill the envelope with a surprise that matches the “open when” prompt (see list above or make your own pairings.) Repeat with all envelopes.
Step Four: Seal the envelopes, place them in the bowl and invite your guests to each take one on their way out, keeping the party going!
