A hostess gift, also called a host gift, says thank you without adding to the host’s work. The best ones can be put aside during the party and enjoyed the next morning. Flowers that need a vase, or a dish that has to be served right away, do the opposite.
Match the gift to the occasion
A hostess gift is a token, not a present that has to impress. For a casual drinks evening, a small box of chocolates is enough. For a dinner where the host has cooked for hours, something a little more generous is a nice way to say thank you. If several of you are invited together, such as a couple or a family, bring one gift from all of you rather than one each.
Things to enjoy the next day
- A box of chocolates
- A jar of honey, jam or a spread from a local producer
- A bag of coffee beans or a box of tea
- A bottle of olive oil
- Breakfast for tomorrow: good granola, a loaf of bread from a bakery, a jar of jam
Attach a short note that says it is for later. Hosts often feel they have to open and serve whatever arrives, and the note takes that pressure away.
Things for the house
- A set of dish towels in a neutral color
- A candle in a jar, in a mild scent
- A small potted plant that doesn’t need a vase. If they have cats or dogs, skip lilies and other plants that are toxic to pets
- A pack of cocktail napkins or coasters
If you know them well
Pick something tied to a conversation you have had: the cookbook they mentioned, a puzzle for a family that likes puzzles, a board game for a house full of children.
If the host has young children
When the host has young children, a small book or a craft for them is often more welcome than another gift for the adults. It also keeps the children busy for the first half hour of the party.
Drinks
A bottle of wine is a traditional hostess gift, but it is not right for every home. If you don’t know whether the host drinks, choose something else, such as sparkling juice, a specialty soda or good coffee.
What to skip
- Cut flowers without a vase. The host has to stop and find one
- Food you expect to be served that evening, unless you arranged it in advance
- Anything strongly scented
- Decorations, unless you know their taste
After the party
A short message the next day thanking the host for the evening matters as much as the gift. Mention one thing you enjoyed: the food, the company, a game you played. It takes a minute and is often remembered longer than whatever you brought.
Wrapping
A paper gift bag with tissue and a handwritten tag is enough. Write your name on the tag. After a big party, the host may want to send a thank-you note and needs to know who brought what.
