Choosing a Hostess Gift

A Charming Way to Say Thank You

It's customary when you're entertained in someone's home to bring a small gift to show your appreciation. We call this a hostess gift, and it's given when you're invited to dinner, an open house, a cocktail party, or when you're a houseguest. Some traditional gifts include a bottle of wine, an arrangement of flowers or a box of chocolates or cookies. However, these days there are many creative options for hostess gifts that can lead to delightful surprises because they are unexpected. So the next time someone entertains you, consider some of these more contemporary gift ideas.

Hostess Gift Ideas
A more contemporary approach to hostess gifts is selecting a gift that reflects the host and hostess' tastes. For example:

• An assortment of fine teas combined with a small tea pot or tea ball makes a charming gift for a tea lover.
• Gourmet cheese and crackers will make a savory gift for your gourmet hosts.
• A collection of specialty salts, peppers, or other seasonings will be a welcome gift for someone who enjoys cooking.
• A music CD that reflects the theme or mood of the party would be a good remembrance of the event.
• A journal for recipes or menus will provide the hostess with a way to record her favorite party ideas in the years ahead.
• Picture frames make nice, affordable gifts for any budget, and will encourage your hostess to frame her favorite photo from the party.
• A set of candles which can be used at her next party, or as she unwinds on her own later that evening makes a thoughtful hostess gift.
• A gift of aromatherapy kitchen soaps or hand lotions will make the chore of cleaning up a bit more pleasant.
• An assortment of cocktail mixers will help to get the next party started.
• A bottle of high quality olive oil is a modern twist on the traditional bottle of wine.
• A basket of some of your favorite, gourmet baking mixes will be appreciated by the hostess who likes to bake, but never quite has the time to do so from scratch.
• A guest book that can be used each time she entertains will be appreciated by the hostess who loves having guests in her home.
• A new cookbook from her favorite chef may inspire future dinner parties.
• A box of pretty note cards or stationery is a gift that will undoubtedly be used.