Thoughtful & Fun Hostess Gifts to Bring to Any Gathering

If you’re invited to a gathering at someone’s home, it’s always good etiquette and a nice gesture to take a gift for the host. It is a way to show appreciation for the person's time and investment in throwing a party. Entertaining takes a lot of effort and planning, even if the host has help, so a small gift is a great way to show gratitude. Plus, it might just encourage them to host again (which is a win for everyone!).

If you’re stumped about what to get your host, there are three (3) categories of gifts that I typically recommend for hostess gifts.

1. Something they can use for future entertaining
2. Something they can share with other guests at the party
3. Something they can enjoy once the party’s over

Here's the breakdown of each and some great gift ideas to go along!

Gifts for Entertaining

If your host loves throwing parties, gift them something that they can use time and again. For example, bespoke place card holders make a perfect entertaining gift as they are classy and reusable for future dinner parties. Also, when selecting gifts for entertaining, think of novelty items that are useful that someone may be less likely to own. For example, while most people own wine glasses, they may not have wine glass charms which add a cute and functional touch for any gathering. Even if your host already owns these items, you can still get them a bespoke set in a theme they don't already have but will certainly enjoy. Other great gift ideas for entertaining include unique serving utensils like cheese knives, cake servers or charcuterie boards. Personalized cocktail napkins also make a great gift for adding style and flair to their next gathering.

Here are some tips and reminders for gifting in this category:

• If this isn’t their first rodeo entertaining, chances are they’ll appreciate something that makes entertaining easier or more fun. So go for it!

• Make sure to consider whether they might already own the item. You don’t want to gift them duplicates of something they already have.

• Choose something thoughtful but not overly common. You don't want to be one of many guests bringing the same item.

• Since this type of gift requires a little more knowledge of the person and what they may already own, I wouldn’t recommend choosing this category of gifts if you don’t know the person very well.

Shareable Gifts

Bringing something the host can share with guests is always a safe (and appreciated) choice. Food and drinks are the easiest go-to here! A nice bottle of wine or a box of gourmet cookies are classics, but a little thoughtfulness goes a long way. Other options include a fancy cocktail mixer set (bonus points if you bring a non-alcoholic version for guests who do not drink), handmade gourmet chocolates or artisanal snacks.

Tips for shareable food gifts:

• Stick to crowd-pleasers (desserts, spirits, fancy snacks).

• Not only are spirits great gift choices but it will be appreciated, even if you gift a bottle that someone else already brought. Duplicate bottles of alcohol at a gathering isn’t usually frowned upon and doesn't typically go to waste. Spirits are also re-giftable so your host will be more than happy to keep or share any unopened leftovers.

• Avoid common allergens like nuts unless you’re 100% sure they’re safe for everyone.

• If you haven’t tasted something before, don’t offer it as a gift.

• If you’re a great cook, you could even make something yourself! Just be mindful not to bring a main dish, as that could interfere with the host’s planned menu. Stick to appetizers or desserts, and when in doubt, ask the host first.

• Please, please, please skip the generic grocery store cupcakes! I know it's tempting to run past the grocery store last minute and grab the first thing you find in the bakery aisle or refrigerator. However, while convenient, grocery store platters and desserts aren't always the best quality. If multiple guests bring them, they’ll likely go to waste. This could also create more work for the host to either store or dispose of food no one wants to eat at the party.

Also, a random, tasteless item from the grocery store can reflect poorly on you and your intent. Instead of conveying to the host/hostess that you thought about him or her, it just says, "I know I should bring something so I just found the cheapest and most convenient thing for ME". Instead, opt for a treat from a local bakery you love.

If you do opt for grocery store shareables, seek out grocery chains that are known for producing higher quality prepared goods and check the expiration date. You do not want to bring items that are within a day of expiration and you definitely do not want to bring expired food.

Gifts for the Afterparty Wind-Down

Not many people think about this, but gifts that help your host relax after the party can be a game-changer! Hosting is exhausting, so a thoughtful self-care gift tells them, “I see the effort you put in, and you deserve a little break.”

Some great options include scented candles or a cozy throw blanket for your host to unwind after a busy night. A luxury hand soap or lotion also makes a small but indulgent treat. If the host is someone you know well, you can easily get them a gift in this category.

Tips for gifting more personal items:

• If you don’t know the host well, I would recommend either choosing a different category of gifts or stick to safe bets like fresh flowers or food. Food and flowers are pretty neutral and are always a safe choice. Flowers also make a pretty elegant gift that adds instant beauty to any space and are a universally appreciated gift.

• Be mindful of the message your gift sends. While a self-care gift can be very well received, avoid gifts that are too familiar or can be perceived as offensive.

• Consider their personal taste. Avoid gifts that do not align with the person's personal preferences. This includes scented products. Do not choose scents that the host will not enjoy. If in doubt, ask or pick a different gift option.

• Avoid gifts that are overly specific, for example skincare. Skincare sets can make great gifts but not for everyone. If your host already uses certain skincare products then buying them a gift set with their faves could be a big win. However, if you don't know anything about their skincare routine, avoid getting them skincare no matter how prestigious the brand may be.

Final Thoughts

Whatever you bring, make sure it’s thoughtful, useful, and shows your appreciation. Whether it’s something for their next gathering, something to share, or something to help them relax after hosting, a little effort goes a long way!

Happy gifting!