There was a time when if you were invited to dinner, you took a gift for your hostess. You didn’t even really have to think about it. Although this charming tradition has fallen out of favor in our new, more casual society it is still a thoughtful way to thank someone for a lovely evening.
If you’d like to revive this practice, here are some hostess gift ideas that run the gamut from classic to unique. Choose something that fits both your personality and your hostess’s tastes.
If you are unsure of whether or not a hostess gift is appropriate, err on the side of generosity and take a gift. If you have been invited to spend the weekend or an evening with friends be sure to take a gift – $30.00 or less for dinner parties is about right.
If you are staying a weekend then consider a batch of muffins, coffee, or quick breads. For other occasions, like cocktail parties, hostess gifts are generally nice but not necessary.
- Wine is a classic gift. Choose the best wine you can for your budget. Merlot or pinot gris are both good choices when you don’t know what to buy.
- Why not be different and bring the ingredients for some unique martinis or margaritas? Add some fun glasses.
- Â Spend some time at the local gourmet store and choose a collection of unusual spices, salts, and herb blends. Smoked salt, smoked paprika, Himalayan pink sea salt, and hand blended steak rubs will give your hosts a chance to try new flavors.
- If you are known for your banana bread, or creating amazing truffles, it is perfectly appropriate to bring a homemade gift from your kitchen. Be honest with yourself about your skills though.
- A local product, like specialty jam, jelly, or uniquely flavored honey is a delicious and unexpected choice. Add a vintage serving dish to create a lasting memory.
- Artisan products like cheese, breads, or micro-brewed beer allow your hosts to try something new.
- Scented candles are casual gifts that almost everyone loves. If you’re unsure about what scent to choose, go with a food scent. Cinnamon, apple, and buttercream are scents that have universal appeal.
- Flowers are always appropriate. Choose a mixed bouquet and leave the roses for that special someone.
- Chocolate. There is nothing else that needs to be said about this.
- A basket of fresh fruit is a classic choice. Give that a modern twist by choosing a basket and putting in a variety of artisan fruit Italian sodas in it.
- Loose leaf tea and an infuser tucked into a small basket with an antique tea cup or two works perfectly for the tea aficionado.
- A package of an artisan roast, limited edition, organic coffee will thrill the coffee lover.
- You can buy herb plants at your local garden store. Choose herbs that are commonly used and easy to grow like basil, chives, and tarragon.
- If you know your hostess pretty well choose the newest cookbook by her favorite author, a favorite collectible, or an accessory for her home.
- Create an ice cream sundae themed gift with ice cream dishes, a variety of sauces, toppings, and sprinkles.
photo credit: Sarah Sphar
