Growing up I was always taught that you never go anywhere empty handed! Every time you go to someone’s home you bring something. Something to reflect your appreciation for having you over, for dinner, a party, hosting you for a visit, whatever the occasion. It doesn’t have to be expensive but just a small something.
The holiday season is right around the corner and your holiday schedule will book up quick! We already have a party to attend every weekend starting the last weekend in November through the whole month of December! So crazy! I’m not sure when I’m going to plan ours small gathering but then again we just moved and don’t really know anyone! One thing that is really cool is some parties are family friendly and some are not! A fun mix!
With all the parties I started to think about what we would need to bring! Trying to stay ahead of the game & time flies. I don’t want to be scrambling each week to find something.
We have a ton of work parties to attend. That makes it a bit tricky because I don’t know them and hubby can only say so much. So creativity comes in… And my list of Best & Worse Hostess Gifts!
Best Hostess Gifts…
Wine, port- could be hit or miss. Some people have favorites.
Flowers or small plant- usually a hit! Who doesn’t like flowers?
Wine cork- could be a hit
Unique olive oil or vinegar- if they like to cook!
Rosemary tree or other fresh herbs plant- usually a hit!
Poinsettias- screams holiday!
Hot sauce- could be hit or miss.
Homemade pasta- could go either way! Hope they aren’t Paleo!
Assorted coffees or teas- A winner!
Chocolate- a winner! Everyone loves
Jelly/ preserves- could go either way!
Cookies- if they have kids and a sweet tooth they will love!
Homemade baked goods- everyone loves homemade cookies!
Candles- could go either way.
Ornament- could go either way! Make sure they celebrate Christmas!
Cookbook- you have to really know the person! You don’t want to offend them if they are cooking you dinner!
A new kitchen appliance or gadget- perfect if you want to go the extra mile for your hostess!
Presentation is everything so take a few minutes to wrap, bow or put in a gift bag/ box
And if your feeling extra creative attach a small card!
Worst Hostess Gifts…
*** Warning- Please don’t bring these if you want to remain friends or they are someone you don’t know very well! I can’t be responsible for losing friends***
“Good Intention Gifts” – self help books!
The thoughtless gift- a cigar to a non smoker or wine to a non- drinker!
The dust collector- looks ok but really it’s just clutter.
Gage Gifts- Hostess gift not frat party gift
A framed picture- No one wants a framed picture of you, your child or your pet!
Cosco size bag of candy- that’s just wrong!
The re- gift
Leave me a comment if you have a suggestion for either list!
This is awesome!!!! Port- now that is a gift I want!
Thank you! Thanks for stopping by!
Offering a point of view as one who subscribes to the “less is more” philosophy. I rarely, if ever, bring a gift. (The exception being if I know the host/hostess particularly well, and have come across a something that jumped into my arms & told me I must convey it to said host or hostess.) However thank-you cards/notes are a big hit. Those I tend to send out, via snail mail, after the event.
Thanks for sharing your viewpoint and your “less is more” philosophy! Thanks for stopping by!
These are great ideas/suggestions!
Thank you! And thanks for stopping by!
That is 1 rule of thumb that my wife stands pat on.. always bring something with you.. Those are good suggestions.
Thanks & thanks for stopping by!