In this post, I’ll be sharing a “Book Swap” themed party with fully mapped out event details and helpful party planning tips to inspire your next gathering.
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If you’re looking for a unique and engaging theme for your next gathering, consider hosting a book swap party, also known as a book exchange party. This type of event is versatile, appealing to various age groups and suitable for many occasions, from birthdays to casual just-for-fun get togethers.
A creative spin on this theme is a “Books and Brunch” party, which combines the joy of sharing beloved reads with a cozy, social brunch setting.
Today’s post is a guide to help you plan the perfect book swap party. Let’s dive into all the party planning details!
Welcome to Party Planning: a series where I virtually plan themed events and bundle them up into a perfectly packaged blog post to inspire your next gathering!
It’s no secret to those who know me that I love to host. So much so that I’m fully convinced putting together a themed party is my love language. Whether it’s hosting a bestie’s milestone birthday or celebrating a holiday with a large group of friends, I’m always down to dive deep into the planning process, go as above and beyond as possible, and tap into my “extra” gene to pull together a fun and memorable event for everyone to enjoy.
However, as much as I live for hosting, there’s just no way to realistically fit all of these perfectly put-together themed parties into real life schedules and budgets. So, as a self-proclaimed “Pinterest Girly” who has spent years curating my Party + Events board (with over 1,000+ pins and counting!) I figured I would start virtually planning events right here on the blog: from the initial moodboard and color palette to the party favors and dress code ideas. I’ll even be including Spotify music playlists and invitation templates… because a great themed party is really all about the details.
So, if you’re looking to host an event this upcoming season but aren’t so keen on the planning process, this series will set you up with a complete rundown of themed gatherings you can use as inspo (or directly copy) for your next event!
How to Host a Book Exchange Party
Mood Board + Color Palette
To capture the charming bookish vibe, I started by gathering images from Pinterest and creating a mood board in my digital party planner.
(Planner: The Perfect Gatherings Digital Party Planner x TWG Designs | App: Goodnotes5)
When creating mood boards, I enjoy incorporating inspiration for every aspect of the event, from food and attire to party favors. I make sure to gather ideas not only for significant decorations like table centerpieces and backdrops but also for the smaller details in between.
Neutral and soft muted colors, paired with touches of vintage elements, served as the primary inspiration for my mood board for a charming book exchange party. Think delicate beige and cream hues, accented by soft blush and sage green, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Vintage brass candlestick holders and antique book pages added an elegant, nostalgic touch to the setting. By blending these gentle colors with timeless vintage pieces, I was able to craft a cozy, intimate environment that felt both sophisticated and welcoming.
Invitations
The invitation acts as a first impression. Set the tone for your book swap party with invitations designed to look like vintage library checkout cards.
These nostalgic invites will not only delight your guests but also provide the perfect opportunity to communicate important details. If you’re looking for a pre-made option, check out this editable version from Zazzle or this customizable version from Etsy.
Aside from displaying the overall theme and tone of the event, make sure your invitation includes all essential information like the date and time of the party, location, and any other relevant details like RSVP instructions, dress code, or carpool suggestions.
For a book exchange party, be sure to include the BYOB (Bring Your Own Book) note, encouraging everyone to bring a wrapped new or gently used book to share. This small touch will instantly immerse your guests in the literary theme.
Alternatively, you can use Canva (my favorite online graphic design platform) to create digital invites for a more informal and relaxed approach to party planning. Make a 1080 x 1920 px sized graphic, save it to your phone, and then send it out to your guest list via text or email.
Decorations
Creating the right atmosphere is key to a successful book swap party. Start with a table runner made from book pages to add a literary flair.
For centerpieces, consider placing flowers inside open books, combining the elegance of fresh blooms with the charm of well-loved novels.
Enhance the cozy vibes by scattering pillows and blankets around the sitting areas, inviting guests to curl up and get comfortable.
For a unique backdrop or statement ceiling installation, use fishing line to hang book pages and flower buds.
Add a vintage touch with brass candlesticks and wine bottles as bases for tapered candles.
If the party is in celebration of someone’s birthday, personalize it with a banner displaying the age as a book chapter, like “Chapter 33.”
Food
A well-curated grazing table will keep your guests happily munching throughout the event. Include a variety of snacks such as a mezze platter with hummus, olives, and pita bread, flatbreads with various toppings, charcuterie cups filled with meats and cheeses, and Snickers chocolate dates for a sweet touch.
A popcorn bar with assorted flavored popcorn—both salty and sweet—adds a fun and interactive element to the spread. This diverse selection ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Signature Drink
Books and tea are a match made in heaven, so a tea-themed signature drink is a must.
For warm weather, consider serving a refreshing iced peach tea, while a hot toddy would be perfect for cooler days. These beverages not only complement the theme but also add a cozy, comforting element to the party.
Activities + Favors
The main event, of course, is the book exchange itself. Have each guest bring a book wrapped in paper, with a short blurb about why they love it written on a sticky note or small card—without revealing the title.
During the party, distribute the books “white elephant” style: each person draws a number and, in turn, chooses a wrapped book or “steals” one that’s already been opened. This adds an element of surprise and fun to the exchange.
Additionally, you could incorporate creative activities such as making bookmarks (check out these DIY ribbon charm bookmarks) or painting canvas tote bags. The tote bags serve a dual purpose as they can also be used by guests to carry their new book home.
Dress Code
In my party planning series, I usually include a section about the dress code. However, this is always optional and depends on the type of event. While a dress code isn’t necessary for a book swap party by any means, I think it can add an extra layer of excitement that guests usually enjoy.
For a casual book swap party, opt for a comfortable and cozy dress code. If you’re hosting a “books and brunch” theme, pajamas could be a fun choice. For tea party-themed book swap, consider a Bridgerton chic dress code or something similar.
SHOP THE LOOK // 1. checkered claw clips / 2. gold hoops / 3. PU leather tote bag / 4. fresh cream perfume / 5. tinted lip balm / 6. glass tumbler cup / 7. slouchy lounge set / 8. cozy socks / 9. canvas tote bag / 10. pearl nail polish / 11. memory foam slippers / 12. warm and cozy candle
Music
Last but definitely not least, make sure to prep a Spotify playlist ahead of time with soothing instrumental tunes to create the ideal atmosphere for a gathering filled with stories and conversations.
A book swap party is a wonderful way to bring people together, celebrate a love of reading, and enjoy each other’s company. With thoughtful invitations, charming decorations, delicious food, and engaging activities, your “Books and Brunch” event is sure to be a hit.
I hope this post inspired you to host your own Book Exchange Party for any upcoming occasion.
If planning is your jam, check out The Perfect Gatherings Digital Party Planner and keep all of your party plans, tasks, to-do lists, and more… organized in one easy-to-access digital file!
This post was all about a Book Swap themed party. If you like this content, check out these posts below!
– DIY Ribbon Bookmarks with Charms
– 12 Popular Books To Read This Summer | Summer TBR List
– Charcuterie Board 101 | My Tips, Tricks, and Shopping List
– Springtime Garden Picnic | Party Planning
Xx- Laura
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