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If there’s one thing I learned from my mother, hosting takes some serious skill and patience. And no matter how modern some time-honored traditions become, hostess gifts never go out of style. Pulling off a crowd-pleasing gathering from start to finish is no easy feat, which is why nothing says “thank you” more than a little something special for the host or hostess.
Still, it can be hard to know exactly what to gift. Not to mention there are different “levels” of gifting depending on what type of gathering they’re throwing. For a summer barbecue bash or festive holiday party, small-scale gifts like a honey sampler or artisan hand soaps are best. On the other hand, a weekend-long trip to the host’s lake house may call for something bigger, like personalized hand towels.
To simplify your shopping, we found the best hostess gifts for every budget and occasion. And no, they’re not a bottle of vino. Whether they’re hosting a wine-tasting party or bridal shower, these hostess gifts ensure you never show up empty-handed.
For the Constantly Cold
The Original Lola Blanket
Know a hostess with the mostest who’s always cold? The oversized, extra-cozy Lola blanket makes a great cuddle time BFF. Made with premium plush material and spanning the entire length of a sofa, the XL version makes for the most comfy movie nights.
“It’s buttery soft and beautifully made, and the elastic stretch is one of those features I didn’t know I needed in a blanket until I experienced it,” says shopping editor Mary Henn in her Lola blanket review. “It’s incredibly plush. Even my 1-year-old couldn’t stop rubbing her hands and face in it, as it likely reminded of her favorite stuffed rabbit.”
ANNAMARIE HIGLEY FOR TASTE OF HOME
For the Flavor Seeker
Olive Oil Subscription
Of all the great subscription boxes out there, Kosterina stands out as one of the best for foodies. With this olive oil delivery service (which we reviewed!), your favorite host receives their choice of extra virgin olive oil every month. Opt for a single bottle of organic olive oil made from olives grown in Greece or go with the flavored trio, which includes garlic, spicy red pepper and Greek herb and lemon.
For the Coffee Connoisseur
Partners Coffee Subscription
Step aside, K-Cups. The Partners Coffee Roaster’s choice subscription is the best way to stay on top of the latest and greatest coffee. It also makes a surprising and welcome gift for coffee lovers.
“I love Partners for their bold packaging and both New York- and global-themed brews,” says Deputy Editor Katie Bandurski. “In my testing for the best coffee subscription, I found that Partners offers fresh, no-frills coffee perfect for morning sipping. (The Elevate was a personal favorite when pulled in my espresso machine.)”
For the Cocktail King or Queen
Luxardo Cherries
Upgrade your favorite host’s cocktail game with a gift that’s sweet, slightly sour and oh-so-decadent. Luxardo cherries may be a splurge normally, but their distinctive deliciousness makes the ideal gift for folks who love their craft cocktails.
“My family owns a bar, and this is the only brand we use there,” says Content Director Ellie Martin Cliffe in our Luxardo cherries review. “You haven’t had a maraschino cherry until you’ve tried Luxardo. They’re the grown-up version of the kiddie cocktail garnish: sweet and a little tart (with no artificial colors). We always have a jar around for cocktails and ice cream. Full disclosure: Sometimes I’ll sneak a cherry for a sweet little snack.”
For the Brunch Buddy
Bloody Mary Bar in a Box
There are so many goodies in this Bloody Mary box! With lots of olives, tomato mix, fiery hot pickles and plenty of cheese for garnish, I can’t recommend this enough for fans of the savory and spicy drink. It even comes with snacks like nuts, sausage and crackers. I pulled it out for a party and everybody was enamored with all the treats and garnishes tucked inside. Just one thing to note: you’ll need to bring your own booze.
For the Bird Watcher
Ferris Wheel Hummingbird Feeder
The perfect gift for the bird watcher, this sturdy feeder from Uncommon Goods is adorable and made with quality materials. Katie purchased it for her mom, and was impressed with the quality.
“My mom is an avid gardener, and one of the highlights of her summer is watching hummingbirds flit to and fro. I knew she would love this ferris wheel feeder with three feeding stations,” says Katie. “I ordered it for her birthday and was shocked by the quality. The glass on this feeder is very thick, and the hand-painted details add a delicate charm. (The red and pink colorways will help attract your feathered friends, too.) I also love that the jars easily lift out of the metal ferris wheel frame for easy cleaning.”
For Your Bubbly Bud
Cheers Gift Set
If you’ve ever endured the stress of hosting a holiday party, you know that a generous host deserves a little self care after the guests have left. This Cheers gift set offers a fun and flavorful edge over the typical box of grocery store chocolates.
“The curators did an excellent job collecting items that feel celebratory and festive,” our tester and Executive Culinary Director Sarah Farmer says. “From the superior packaging to the array of products, this box nails it for any occasion that calls for a cheer.”
For the Cozy Queen
Gourmet Hot Cocoa Bundle
Hot cocoa gift sets make the perfect hostess gifts for chocoholics. This gourmet hot cocoa bundle comes with everything required to make a tasty, calming cup of cheer. Inside is a pouch of high-quality Dutch cocoa powder, two flavoring sugars and a card with a recipe for the ultimate hot cocoa.
For the Pinkies Up Pal
Jubilee Tea Chest
Tea Forte is responsible for one of our favorite tea Advent calendars, but you don’t have to snag their Christmas countdown to enjoy a variety of flavors. The brand’s Jubilee tea chest, inspired by the The New York Botanical Garden, comes packaged with gorgeous floral artwork, making it highly giftable. We also love the variety of flavors, including both traditional black teas, green teas, white teas, oolong and herbal blends. With two of each flavor for a total of 40 satchels, your giftee can experience a flavorful tea journey.
For the One That Thinks Variety is the Spice of Life
Signature Bakery Assortment
We’ve tried several of Harry & David’s gorgeous gift baskets, but this baked goods basket is definitely one of our favorites of all time. I personally sampled the signature bakery assortment, which is overflowing with cakes, baklava, galettes, cookies and a cinnamon swirl. Everything looks fresh, and upon opening the box, it smelled absolutely lovely, like a local bakery. There’s a little something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of fruity cookies and cakes or prefer chocolate.
It’s also a great gift for him—especially if he has a sweet tooth!
For the Chocolatier
Compartés Truffles
Although there are plenty of incredible gourmet truffles out there, few compare to those from Compartés. The luxury chocolate brand is known for its ornate confections; some of its bars are even on display in the Smithsonian! In this truffles gift box, you’ll find seasonal ingredients made in the European tradition, each with a chocolate ganache filling. And don’t worry about the quality—they make one of our favorite boxes of chocolates!
For the Momento Lover
Custom Puzzle
Document parties of the past with a custom puzzle to capture your hostess’ most cherished memories. Jiggy puzzles are high-quality prints meant for framing and enjoying even after they’re put together. Just choose between 100 or 500 pieces and upload a photo to their puzzle workshop—they take care of the rest. Psst—puzzle lovers will also adore the brand’s puzzle subscription box.
For the Budding Bread Baker
Nordic Ware Simply Sourdough Bread Baking Kit
Never baked sourdough before? Don’t worry—Nordic Ware’s all-inclusive sourdough baking kit has everything needed for crafting bakery-quality loaves. It’s the perfect present for bread newbies!
“This kit has all the tools you need to start your sourdough journey,” says tester Mary. “From a glass jar for starter with a temp strip and tracker band, to a Danish dough whisk and a baking pan with a domed lid, this kit has all the bread-baking essentials in one convenient package.”
For the Whimsical Baker
Lenox Village House Canisters
Maybe it’s the nostalgia of seeing them displayed in Grandma’s kitchen, maybe it’s the vintage vibes. Either way, it’s no secret that we’re obsessed with the Lenox Spice Village. Inspired by the classic spice village, these three pastel canisters look so cute filled with dry goods or odds and ends. If you love these, check out the new range of Lenox gifts, including spice village pajamas and accent plates!
For the Scent Lover
Mornings at Levain Bakery Candle
If they love the smell of fresh-baked cookies, they’ll find themselves lighting this sweet candle daily. The combination of buttery dough, sweet brown sugar and melty chocolate chips calls to mind a delicious, fragrant bakery. I use my candle warmer lamp on a timer just to make sure I can enjoy the scent of this candle all day long. Stepping into a room filled with this fragrance immediately calms me. There’s just something about that ‘stepped into a bakery’ smell that eases all tension!
For the Classic Baker
Farmhouse Favorites Cookbook
This gorgeous cookbook is full of 250 delicious recipes—everything from hearty breakfasts to cozy dinners and blue-ribbon desserts. Every recipe in Taste of Home Farmhouse Favorites features the best in down-home ingredients, unfussy techniques and comforting flavor. Your sister will be tempted by every recipe inside this cookbook, including cinnamon swirl bread, chicken potpie casserole and chewy chocolate gingersnaps.
For the Banana Buff
Best of Magnolia Bakery Sampler Pack
Whether they’re obsessed with banana pudding or they’re a die-hard Magnolia Bakery fan, they’ll love trying out the famed NYC spot’s sampler pack. Choose from two or several containers of banana pudding (which Magnolia Bakery is best known for), along with a tasty cupcake combo. All of these yummy baked goods are packed in a keepsake Magnolia tin, too, for pretty and fun packaging.
Upon my first taste, I couldn’t believe how rich and delicious these goodies were—especially the famed banana pudding. Beneath the first layer of pudding is a smorgasbord of vanilla cake and soft, ripe banana pieces. It’s truly a joy to indulge in every bite!
DARIA SMITH FOR TASTE OF HOME
For the Frequent Hoster
Estelle Colored Wine Glass Set
If your favorite hostess loves luxury, a set of Estelle colored wine glasses is a welcome addition to her kitchen cabinet. These delicate, hand-blown glasses come in a variety of beautiful colors to match any decor and are made by artisans in Poland.
“Mixed stemware sets work especially well for entertaining because each person has a designated color,” says tester Daria Smith in her review of the stemware. “Estelle is centered on the principle of everyday luxury, made for a casual drink (from sweet tea to an Aperol Spritz) with friends after work.”
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for the super organized
Skylight Calendar
This digital calendar will come in handy when they’re planning their next big event. They will be able to create custom lists and menus that can be shared with family and friends. And when they’re not in full party-planning mode, the Skylight calendar is sure to help them manage their normal day-to-day.
No subscription is required, but they do have the option to upgrade to Calendar Plus. This annual subscription offers a reward system for kids, meal planning, a photo screensaver and more.
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for the home bartender
BruMate Cocktail Shaker
Shake up their mixology game with BruMate’s new cocktail shaker. This insulated shaker is 100% leakproof thanks to its OctaLock lid. Speaking of lids, the spill-proof lid on this shaker features easy-to-see markings in 1.5-ounce increments so they can measure, shake and pour perfect cocktails at their next get-together.
“My old shaker would leak everywhere if not held just right,” says staff writer Marisa Hillman. “I replaced it with BruMate’s shaker and now, not a drop of my espresso martini goes to waste!”
for the cheese monger
Murray's Small Timeless Classics Cheese Board
When it comes to cheese of the month clubs, Murray’s is at the top of our list. But you don’t have to commit to a monthly subscription in order to send your host to a savory treat. Murray’s Small Timeless Classics Cheese Board features five varieties of cheese totaling 1.75 pounds. It also includes two packages of artisinal crackers, dried Turkish apricots, fresh grapes, sun-dried cranberries and almond halves, all skillfully arranged on a rectangular wooden tray.
for the cuddler
Warmies Capybara
Hosting may be fun, but it isn’t always easy. Help them alleviate any lingering stress with this on-trend capybara from Warmies. All they have to do is pop it in the microwave for a minute and they’ve got a warm, weighted friend to keep them company while they kick back and relax. It’s filled with natural grains and French lavender for a truly relaxing experience. Even if they’re not capybara fans, there are several other weighted stuffed animals to choose from!
for the game lover
Telestrations Party Game
Whether they’ve spent months planning or are hosting an impromptu get-together, Telestrations is sure to be a hit. This family-friendly party game is the modern day game of telephone but instead of whispering to one another, players have to draw what they see and guess what they saw.
“We almost always break out Telestrations when we host small gatherings,” says Marisa. “It’s such a hit with both kids and adults that we bought a second game to accommodate more players.”
For the Traditionalist
Mrs. Fields Pop-Up Fruit Bowl
Beautifully packaged fruit is a time-honored gift for a hostess. This pop-up fruit bowl offers a nice twist on the traditional option with a reusable wooden bowl that arrives in a box with carefully packed oranges, apples, pears, lemons, limes, mandarins and kiwis.
“As someone who has bought many flower arrangements and fruit bouquets online, I think the price tag on this pop-up bowl is totally fair,” says Senior Shopping Editor Caitlyn Fitzpatrick. “The fruit is high quality and the adorable, apple-shaped bowl will last for many refills to come.” Caitlyn received her own bowl and still uses it to hold her weekly fruit haul.
For the Charcuterie Crew
Boarderie Charcuterie Board
If they love hosting, you know they love charcuterie. Send them a gourmet Boarderie gift piled high with artisanal cheeses, cured meats and other accouterments. It arrives fully assembled—no cutting, chopping or arranging required.
“My favorite part of the Boarderie board was the experiential aspect,” says Editor Annamarie Higley in her review of the board. “A few friends and I had a lovely time huddling around the board, trying each item, discussing the flavors and swapping opinions, sipping wine intermittently.”
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For the Fully Stocked Bar Cart
Shaker and Spoon
When you’re shopping for a cocktail lover, you can’t go wrong with a gourmet cocktail kit from Shaker and Spoon. Their library of all-inclusive cocktail boxes covers a range of spirits, from rum to champagne and everything in between. While the boxes don’t include alcohol, you can head over to Curiada and snag the Shaker and Spoon recommended selections for each box there. Or, use your favorite brands instead. Feeling generous? Pay for a few months of a subscription for a gift that keeps on giving!
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For the Outdoorsman
Solo Stove Tabletop Fire Pit
Fun fact: You don’t need a huge backyard or secluded spot in the woods to get the camping experience. With the Solo Stove Mesa, your buddies can have a bite-sized campfire almost anywhere. They’ll love breaking in their new home by making s’mores and keeping their hands warm next to this cozy outdoor staple.
For the Tea Partier
Smeg Retro Stovetop Whistling Kettle
Nothing makes a house feel like a home quite like a hot beverage. Splurge on this Smeg stovetop kettle, and they’ll think of you every time they brew up a cup of their favorite tea. Between the retro spout cap and cute whistling alert, they’ll appreciate the coziness this kettle brings.
For the Charcuterie Connoisseur
Personalized Serving Board
For over-the-top events that entail long hours of planning, we lean on personalized hostess gifts, like this gorgeous wood and marble serving board. Made from Acacia wood, the board is complete with marble accents and three small bowls. Customize it with their initials or last name for an extra thoughtful cheese board gift idea. It’ll become an heirloom piece in no time!
For the Flower Arranger
Dried Flower Bouquet Diffuser
A seasonal flower arrangement and diffuser all in one? Check! This is one of the best hostess gifts because they get two surprises in one. This dried flower bouquet diffuser sits pretty on any tabletop or makes a beautiful guest bathroom addition. Whatever they choose, it blooms with scents of lavender and eucalyptus all year long.
For the Every Host
Infused Olive Oil Set
Whether you’re headed to a holiday party or baby shower, gift sets like this infused olive oil collection are just the treat to have in your back pocket. It’s a simple yet thoughtful way to show your thanks without overdoing it. I mean, who doesn’t like the sound of blood orange-infused olive oil?
For the Home Cook
Earlywood Essentials Set
If you want to impress the host or hostess, unique and functional gifts like this wooden utensil set are the way to their heart. It includes two large flat sautes, one scraper and one large spreader. Each utensil is made of hardwood and is multifunctional, making this set an ideal gift. Have you checked out these other gifts for foodies?
For the Brunch Boss
Mimosa Sugar Cubes
Mimosas on the fly? Say no more. These minute mimosa sugar cubes turn any glass of bubbly into a mimosa or bellini in 60 seconds—no fruit juice necessary. They pair perfectly with your next at-home brunch or wine-tasting party.
For the Sentimentalist
Host with the Most Candle
What better way to show your appreciation for a dinner party or gathering than with a candle that says it all? This natural soy-wax candle boasts fruity notes of pomegranate, wine, rose, black currant and cedar to fill their home with gratitude. We love a candle collection that smells as good as it looks.
For the Homegrown Foodie
State Spoon Rest
A spoon rest is an essential tool that doesn’t just serve a purpose—it also adds personality to the kitchen. Practical and pretty, this state spoon rest reminds them of their roots while adding some character to the counter. They’ll think of you every time they cook!
For the Experimental Cook
Gourmet Salad Dressing Spice Kit
The hostess isn’t the only best-dressed guest at the party—now her salad will be, too, thanks to this gourmet salad dressing spice kit. Complete with an adorable glass bottle and spices for whipping up chili lime vinaigrette, lemon poppy vinaigrette and sesame ginger vinaigrette, the set is perfect for experimenting with new dressings and marinades to show off at your host’s next dinner party.
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For the Holiday Enthusiast
Bat Wine Opener
Whether they’re obsessed with spooky season or holidays at large, this bat wine opener is guaranteed to put a smile on their face. Plus, it doubles as a bottle opener. We tried the bat wine bottle opener, and trust us, every bottle of vino needs this trusty sidekick.
For Under $15
Hand Cream
Because their hands are like their paintbrush, this mini hand cream keeps the entertainer’s palms feeling their best. It’s an affordable hostess gift great for when you don’t want to show up empty-handed during the holiday party season. If Tocca’s hand cream smells anything like their perfume (which is my all-time favorite), the host will thank you long after the party’s over.
For the Queen of Luxury
Agate Coaster
Practical and polished, these gilded agate coasters are oh-so divine. Available in six stunning colors, every coaster boasts a different cut and glimmer, so each hostess gets a gift as unique as they are. More importantly, they’ll never have to worry about their furniture falling victim to guests’ drinks again.
For the Bread Baker
Bread Warming Blanket
Hostess gifts for bread bakers? Coming right up. Affordable and nothing short of thoughtful, this bread-warming blanket keeps their creation at just the right temperature to ensure every dinner party guest receives a slice of warm, homemade bread. It says, “I loaf you,” all on its own.
For the Decorator
Candle Warmer Lamp
Candle warmer lamps are a great gift for candle collectors. Not only do they look cute, but they also help candles last way longer than burning them. In our tests for the best candle warmer lamp, tester Mary was impressed with the look and versatility of this fluted option.
“I love the calming, soft glow it gives off while I’m working, especially on overcast or rainy days,” she says in her full review of the candle warmer lamp. “The scent is lighter than when you burn a candle, but my candles last way longer, and I actually prefer the gentler fragrance. It’s enough to fill the room without being overwhelming.”
For the Preppy Entertainer
Personalized Hand Towels
If the hostess in your life is obsessed with making their home feel like a luxe hotel, these plush hand towels are such a treat for their powder room. Personalize them with the hostess’ last name or initials and match them with the color palette of their guest bathroom. They’re a treat for the hostess and their guests!
For the Candle Queen
Candle Accessories
Keep the host or hostess’ best candle collection up to par by gifting them this three-in-one candle care set. Complete with a wick trimmer, candle snuffer and wick dipper, the set comes in a champagne gold color that’s classy and practical enough to display on their coffee table.
For the Foodie
Finishing Salts
The secret to a tasty homemade meal? Finishing salts, of course! Think Bolivian rose salt, black lava salt and so much more. Every foodie from grill masters to beginner home cooks will appreciate the extra spice in their life. Pro tip: You can gift the entire eight-piece set or gift two at a time for a hostess gift that keeps on giving.
For the Colorful Chef
Pretty Kitchen Towels
In the kitchen, you can always use more towels. These Anthropologie kitchen towels are perfect for the host or hostess who loves to experiment with color. They brighten up the kitchen no matter the season.
For the Salty One
Personalized Rimming Board
Though an all-expenses paid trip to Margaritaville is ideal, hosts and margarita lovers alike will still appreciate this affordable, personalized bamboo board. It’s compact yet thoughtful, and it makes rimming those margarita glasses with salt so easy. These other alcohol gifts are always fun, too.
For the Snacker
Flower Bowls
Take their hosting game to a whole new level with these fun snack bowls. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe, they’re just the right size for serving with a charcuterie board, chocolate board or even taco board.
For the Charmer
Drink Markers
These fun drink charms make it easy for every party guest to claim their beverage. With charming identifiers like a mermaid or starfish, these beach-themed markers add some personality to everyone’s wine glass. Heck, these charms are so cute, the host in your life will put ’em to use with or without a party.
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For the Plant Parent
Mini Succulent Garden
Plants and flowers are always welcome hostess gifts, and this mini succulent garden is the sweetest little find to show your thanks. The succulents arrive beautifully arranged inside a ceramic pot. All you have to do is show up with it to your next gathering.
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For the Classic Entertainer
Taste of Home Farmhouse Entertaining Cookbook
Gift some fun yet incredibly helpful inspiration with the Taste of Home Farmhouse Entertaining Cookbook. With chapters on summer parties, Christmas Eve appetizers, kids’ Thanksgiving tables and so much more, all of their hosting woes are covered in this essential guide. They’ll share the gift of farmhouse meals in no time.
For the Mixologist
Flavored Simple Syrup Set
For the host who’s also a part-time mixologist at their parties, gift these flavored simple syrups. With flavors like cherry almond, pear rosemary, cucumber habanero and grapefruit basil, they encourage playful experimentation and top-notch sips. They also pair well with our favorite glassware for mixed drinks.
For the Sweets-Fanatic
Fresh Cookies
Who wouldn’t want to be greeted with a freshly baked treat? Wow them with these New York-famous chocolate chip cookies from Levain Bakery. They’ll arrive on their doorstep ready to be gobbled up. Read how much we love them in our Levain cookies review.
For the Game-Lover
Conversation Card Game
When new guests are around or the conversation gets dull, this card game is here to help. We’re Not Really Strangers is a conversational card game that builds connection. Prompts like “What does my phone wallpaper tell you about me,” or “What’s been your favorite memory this past year,” lighten the mood and deepen guests’ understanding of each other.
Though it’s recommended to play with four to six people, it’s ideal for large gatherings, too. I bring it to family holiday parties (they can get awkward real quick), and everyone walks away feeling refreshed and entertained after playing together. We’ll raise a glass to that!
For Under $50
Checkered Cheese Knives
Elevate their charcuterie game with these elegant, checkered cheese knives. Take it to the next level by pairing them with your loved one’s favorite fromage!
For the Queen of Amazon
Honey Drizzler
Collecting unique Amazon gadgets is an art form, and any skilled collector needs to add this adorable honey jar to their compilation. It’s like a maple syrup dispenser but for honey.
We tried the honey drizzler and can confirm it’s the perfect vessel for displaying and pouring honey without all the mess. Not only does it make a wonderful gift for bakers, but it’s also the perfect complement to the host or hostess’ tea collection.
For the Aromatherapy-Obsessed
Cheerful Essential Oil
We all have an entertainer in our lives who’s obsessed with essential oils. Adding another essential oil diffuser blend to their collection is a surefire way to put a smile on their face. I can’t think of a more appropriate scent than this cheerful blend that’s described as “sunshine in a bottle.” With notes of lime, bergamot and grapefruit, it sets the mood for the whole evening.
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For the Edgy Book Worm
Tequila Mockingbird Cocktail Book
For under $20, the Tequila Mockingbird: Cocktails with a Literary Twist recipe book is the best cocktail book money can buy that’s guaranteed to light up any literature lover’s face. From “Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margarita” to “Romeo and Julep,” they’ll be delighted with cocktails that pair well with their favorite classic novels. And if they don’t drink alcohol, these mocktail books are equally wonderful.
For the Spa Lover
Artisanal Soaps
When it comes to gifts for hostess parties, we love gifting soap—it smells fantastic, everyone uses it, and if you get handmade bars with cute labels, they double as home decor. This soap set from Amazon comes with six chic bars ideal for just about any host or hostess.
For the Perfumist
Capri Blue Volcano Room Spray
If there’s one thing hosts are always trying to perfect, it’s creating a welcoming, long-lasting signature scent throughout their home. And there’s no aroma more timeless than the Capri Blue Volcano room spray. With notes of orchid, jasmine and gardenia, it makes any room bloom with the smell of fresh-cut flowers.
For the Party Chef
Cold-Pressed Olive Oil Set
Olive oil is an essential ingredient for any home chef, especially one who loves hosting parties. Brightland’s cold-pressed olive oils are known for their high quality and exceptional flavors, and they’re favorites of celebrities like Oprah and Reese Witherspoon.
FAQ
What is a proper hostess gift?
While not always expected, a hostess gift is a nice way to show appreciation for your host’s efforts. It doesn’t need to be extravagant—a small token like flowers, candy, wine, home goods, decor or snacks works well. Cater the gift to the host’s tastes to ensure they’ll enjoy it.
How much should you spend on a hostess gift?
Hostess gifts typically range from $20 to $50. The goal is to show appreciation without making other guests feel uncomfortable. It’s a simple thank you, not a significant investment.
When not to bring a hostess gift?
If the host asks you to bring something specific, like food or drinks, you’re not obligated to bring an additional gift. You can still bring one if you like, but it’s unexpected.
What does a dinner party host actually want as a gift?
Broadly, consumables like cheeses, desserts, breads and hors d’oeuvres are good gifts, especially if you don’t know the host or hostess’ decor style. They may not want anything that they need to find a place for (don’t we all have too much stuff?), so if you’re not sure, bring something that can be consumed—even better if it’s something that aids with their meal prep for the party.
Why You Should Trust Us
At Taste of Home, we delight in sharing recipes, products and ideas that will elevate your lifestyle. Our editors and testers have years of experience preparing meals, planning events and shopping for the perfect gifts. For this article, we searched for an array of giftable items at various price points. We combed through hundreds of reviews to further ensure that you’ll find the perfect gift for your favorite host and hostess.
