Hostess Gift Guide

Are you in a gift giving dilemma about what to bring to the host of your next holiday party? If you are at all like me, there are many ideas swirling through your head trying to make the right choice. You know it’s not necessary, but you’re not going to show up empty-handed. When trying to find a hostess gift think about your host and their hobbies, favorite foods, and interests.

If you’re invited to a party hosted by a good friend , then you can be a little more personal with your choices. I think books are an excellent gift choice. It can be a unique coffee table book, a trendy bar guide, an inspirational book, or what many women our age find intriguing, a book about Health and Beauty.

One that I recommend, and have gifted recently to friends, is “Love Your Age” by Barbara Hannah Grufferman. When I read this book, I felt like I was sitting around with a good friend discussing all the topics that come to mind within women of our age group. It addresses health issues, skin care regimes, and the benefits of nourishing friendships. If you have ever spent time in what I call “girlfriend therapy” you will enjoy the book.      

Hostess Gift Ideas: 

A picture frame with a picture you think your host would enjoy having. Such as a picture of their pet, or their grandchildren. Find a picture that you think is meaningful to them. It’s easy if you are friends on Facebook as you can just print a picture they’ve posted.

Fresh Cosmetics which is sold at Nordstrom has wonderful scented soaps that I have given to friends and sell for $15 each

Nordstrom has recently partnered with Anthropologie and I found this Capri Blue scented candle 

Golden Two-Piece Salad Serving Set- a great gift especially if they entertain often

I also found these Mud Pie Circa 4-piece Holiday Sentiment Spreader Set on Amazon 

Festive platters bowls, and appetizer plates 

Pottery Barn has this fun snowman cocktail shaker for $34.00

If your host enjoys a good cocktail, then of course I would see what their beverage of choice is and add a little surprise to go along with it. For example, if it’s bourbon then I would add some smoked dark cherries to make an old fashion.

Next, if your host enjoys wine, I suggest you take a gold marker and write something special right on the label. When they get around to opening the bottle, they are reminded of who it was from and when.

Another favorite gift I enjoy giving is spices. I would suggest going to a local spice store and select a variety of sea salts or a box of various meat flavorings and seasonings. The Spice Store will take what you select and box it nicely. I did this last year for my son and son in law.

Finally, even with all the above suggestions you should keep in mind that when someone is hosting a party they do not expect you to bring something. Yes, it is a thoughtful gesture, but they are just wanting to gather friends and enjoy the company. When you attend a party and you’ve had a great time send handwritten note afterwards. A handwritten thank you note can be just as meaningful and much more appreciated then bringing a hostess gift.

Cheers!