Totally Nautical Kids' Birthday Party

Send Home a Memento of the Sea

For a salty spin on the usual goodie bag, cut blue paper treat sacks to form a wave shape. Fill the oceanic bags with treats that give a nod to your nautical scheme: Life Savers, Swedish fish and lengths of Twizzlers tied into sailor’s knots are all great options, while saltwater taffy would be fun for older children. Other favor options include packets of cards for playing "Go Fish," plastic fortuneteller fish and, for brave parents, squirt guns.

Laura Fenton is a Brooklyn-based writer and stylist whose work has appeared in many publications, including Country Living, Family Circle and Good Housekeeping. She is also a regular contributor to Shelterpop.com.