At Zest for Living, we have gifts ready to go to the party in every season.
According to the Emily Post Institute, hostess gifts are completely optional for cocktail parties. However, a small food gift, candle and cocktail napkins or for the holidays, something seasonal, like an ornament—would be thoughtful. Be sure to enclose a gift card or tag so the host won’t wonder whose thought it was that counts.
A simple gift under $25 is appropriate for a dinner party. Don’t give anything that will distract the host. Think beyond the traditional bottle of wine and consider candles, soap, brie bakers, garlic roasters and accompanying toppings, cocktail napkins (paper or linen), a small potted plant, a flower arrangement already in a vase. Present the gift to your host when you arrive, or leave it on an entryway table if your host isn’t there to greet you – again remember to enclose a gift card or have the staff at Zest for Living attach a gift tag.
Gifts are optional for casual get-togethers and brunches. Check with the host and offer instead to bring something for the meal and consider providing it on a dish that you can leave behind or accompany it with some napkins.
A gift is mandatory for an overnight stay. You can present the gift upon your arrival, during your stay, or as you leave. Consider giving your hosts something that would be right for them, like a tray, vase or cushion that goes with their color scheme. The longer the stay, the more expensive or elaborate the gift.
What do you give the host who has everything? Everyone likes a thank-you. Even the simplest token can have an impact—candles, flowers, homemade jam, or a batch of cookies.
Here are some great gift ideas:
A Gift of Tea: Infusers or loose tea, a lovely teacup, strainer or teabag holder, a tea gadget, tea towel or napkins.
Flowers or plant in a simple vase or decorative pot.
A gift of food: premium oil or vinegar, dips, or in this case salad dressing combined with servers or even a beautiful bowl.
Candles are always appreciated. Scented Votivo candles will spread fragrance throughout. Tapers or pillar candles are also welcome. Give unscented candles if your hostess is sensitive to scent or a battery operated candle.
Kitchen Gadget: Give a useful gift such as a brie baker, garlic roaster, lemon press or pepper mill. Include one or more of the ingredients that would go with the gadget such as oil, seasoning, cheese topper, lemons or premium peppercorns.
Paper or Linen Napkins: Humorous Anne Taintor cocktail napkins are a perennial favourite or give decorative paper napkins – folded guest towels or oversized dinner napkins are welcome. Consider presenting the napkins in a holder with a whimsical napkin weight.
For a particularly memorable or milestone event consider giving a picture frame and send a photo along with your thank you note.
Everyone can use fresh tea towels. Combine a lovely towel with some glamourous rubber gloves and wash cloths and hand lotion or soap for a complete clean-up kit.