How to Choose the Perfect Hostess Gift
Photo: Lisa Hubbard
Simple ways to show your appreciation.
A gift for your hostess need not be extravagant, but a little creativity does go a long way toward making this present surprising and special.
Add a Special Touch to an Ordinary Gift
Instead of the expected bottle of red or white wine straight from the shop, why not offer a festive sparkling wine or sweet dessert wine with a ribbon tied around the top? Or, rather than presenting a bundle of flowers wrapped in paper, make a lovely arrangement yourself in a container you don’t mind parting with, a plain glass vase from the florist, or an old mason jar. That way, the host won’t have to take time from her preparations and socializing to cut the stems and arrange the flowers.
Smart Tips for Food Gifts
Food gifts are always appreciated. Just don’t bring something that could interfere
with the hostess’ menu plans; she can always put a tray of chocolates or cookies out along with the dessert, but a cake or tart could complicate matters (unless you know it will be a big party with a buffet of sweets or if you offered in advance to provide dessert). And it doesn’t have to be something to serve that evening, either; you could bring homemade banana bread, granola, jams and jellies, or a selection of coffee and teas.
Personalize Your Present
If the hostess likes to cook, luxurious ingredients, such as dried porcini mushrooms or a bottle of truffle oil, make wonderful gifts. You can also select whatever fruits or vegetables are in season. This might be easiest in the summer, when so many succulent fruits and berries are at their best, but in the colder months, you might select a perfect pumpkin or a few unusual winter squashes. For a different kind of thank-you gift, consider bringing along a camera. Take a few pictures at the party, then frame one or two for your hostess.
Visit MarthaStewart.com for: 16 Creative Hostess Gift Ideas
