Gifts for the Host
The holiday season is a time for giving and gathering. If you’re invited to someone’s home for a festive celebration, you might wonder what to bring as a Christmas gift for the host. Below are some tips and ideas.
What Is a Good Hostess Gift?
A hostess gift is not just a formality but a way to express gratitude and respect for the hospitality of your host.
For Summer Parties
For summer barbecues, a custom apron for the pit master, a high-quality grill set, or a beautifully designed glassware set for lemonade or iced tea make excellent gifts.
For Easter Brunches
Easter brunches have a more intimate and elegant vibe. Consider bringing a set of delicate, pastel-colored table napkins or a gourmet Easter-themed food basket for your host.
For Thanksgiving
For this holiday, ideal hostess gifts include beautiful fall foliage or a cornucopia filled with fresh harvests and Thanksgiving favorites like cranberry sauce and sweet potato chips.
For Christmas
Christmas hostess gift ideas include a set of holiday dish towels, an ornament set, or a bottle of mulled wine. Even a small, classy decoration that fits within the host’s existing décor can make for a thoughtful present.
How Do I Choose a Gift for the Hostess?
Selecting a gift can be as delightful as receiving one—if you know what you’re doing. Here are some tips to find the best hostess gifts for Christmas parties, Thanksgiving, and other occasions.
-
Consider the host’s interests – If they have a green thumb, a potted plant is an excellent choice. For a wine lover, a good bottle paired with a unique corkscrew will do the trick.
-
Think about the occasion – A gift for a casual barbecue will be different than a gift for an elegant dinner party. Make sure to align your choice with the event’s tone.
-
Get creative – Personalized gifts, like a custom-made serving tray or a monogram charcuterie board, add a personal touch many hosts will appreciate.
-
Take note of the host’s lifestyle – If your host is a fitness junkie, opt for a stylish water bottle or a set of organic teas instead of a basket of sweets.
-
Choose practicality – Items they can use during or after the party, like a wicker basket or a set of coasters, are always well-received.
Frequently Asked Questions
We answer some of the most common questions about gifts for hosts and hostesses below.
Should you bring a gift to the host for a party?
There is no strict rule for bringing a hostess gift. However, if you are not well acquainted with them or it is a special occasion, offering a small gift is a considerate gesture.
How much should I spend on a hostess gift?
The amount you spend should be based on your relationship with the host and your budget. A good rule of thumb is to spend at least $20 as a gesture of gratitude. However, plenty of inexpensive hostess gift options are available, such as coffee mugs, candle sets, and bath salts.
How do I give a gift to the hostess?
Give your gift as soon as you arrive at their home. Make sure to hand the Christmas gift to the hostess discreetly so as not to take away from the event’s excitement. If you bring a perishable gift, give it to the host beforehand to avoid inconvenience.
Bringing a well-thought-out hostess gift helps build rapport and secure your invite to the next event. Request a catalog to find the best Christmas hostess gifts this year.