As I mentioned last week, whether or not the host or hostess of a party asks me to bring something, I always do. It may not be 
something for the party, but a little gift for the host is always a good way to go in my book. But here’s the thing … I’m sick of giving bottles of wine. Everybody’s go to for a host/hostess gift is a bottle of alcohol – wine, champagne, scotch, you get the picture. I like to think a little outside the box with all of my other gifts, so why not with a hostess gift? If you want to show your appreciation in a way that doesn’t include wine, chocolate, or flowers, keep on reading for three of my favorite ideas for host/hostess gifts.
Think about this. Have you ever received a gift from a party guest and then found yourself re-gifting it to somebody else? Of course you have. But wouldn’t it be nice if you knew for sure that your gift recipient was able to enjoy what you give to them? Of course it would!
- Non-Edible Home Goods: It’s easy to turn to Edible Arrangements or a box of chocolates when it comes to gifts for a party host. I’m not saying there is anything wrong with that (I’m a big fan of sweets). All I’m saying is that your host is probably getting a ton of that stuff from other guests. What about a gift that lasts longer than 45 seconds, like a coffee table book on a subject that you know interests them, or a nice candle? UncommonGoods.com has some really awesome gift ideas and you can sort them by recipient, age, and price! Just be careful if you go this route that you truly know your host’s taste and style so that you’re giving a gift of value rather than clutter.
- Next Day Treats: If you DO want to go the edible route, and again, there is nothing wrong with that, consider bringing something that your host won’t feel pressured to share with the party. Hosting a party is exhausting so is cleaning up the next day. A nice quick bread or gourmet coffee or tea will allow your host to take a beat the next morning and enjoy something without having to prepare it. You could even make a small basket with some artisanal jams and biscuits.
- Something Family Friendly: Your gift is of course aimed at the person who invited your and threw the party but that doesn’t mean you can’t consider the entire family. A gift for their child and or pet shows that you know what they care about and that you care too. Depending on the situation and your budget, you could do both – a little something for the host specifically and then an additional gift for the family.
Christmas is next week! How many holiday parties do you have left? Are you hosting one yourself? What would you think if you got one of these three gift ideas?
Rebecca McKinney
I wanted to create this blog for a few reasons. First and foremost, to share tips, tricks, and knowledge about the food and beverage industry in general but also to help people see a different side of the restaurant world. Every restaurant has a totally unique culture and world within it. I want to help open people’s eyes to more than how fast the service is or how easy or hard it is to secure a reservation.
So, thanks for stopping by! I welcome your ideas, input, and feedback and hope you enjoy!
Eat well & travel often,
Becky McKinney
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