Host & Hostess Gift Guide

The holidays are a wonderful opportunity to share a special meal with friends and family, and if you’re lucky, you’re not the one cooking this year! It is a privilege to be invited into someone’s home for dinner, and holiday hosting requires lots of time and skill! A considerate way to acknowledge all the work being done by the host/hostess is to bring a gift in reciprocity. Here are some simple tips to keep in mind when selecting a hostess gift, and some great gift ideas that will get you invited back!

1. Be discreet. It is not necessary to bring a hostess gift, and other invitees might overlook this tradition. Therefore, it is polite to ensure you are discreet when giving the gift. If others are around when you give the gift, do not expect the host or hostess to open the gift in front of the other guests. Ideally, this exchange should take place during a private moment between you and your host. 
   
   

                                            

2. Wine First. A hostess gift does not take the place of the traditionally offering of wine. If the nature of your relationship or budget constraints dictate you can bring only one gift, opt for an alcoholic offering. Wine is always a safe choice!
   
   

                                                  

3. Lend a hand. The best hostess gift is your help during the event. Offer assistance throughout the evening, especially following the meal. Be a supportive guest, and acknowledge the great deal of work the host and/or hostess has gone to for your benefit. A gracious presence is the most important thing to bring with you. The best hostess gift is your help during the event. Offer assistance throughout the evening, especially following the meal. Be a supportive guest, and acknowledge the great deal of work the host and/or hostess has gone to for your benefit. A gracious presence is the most important thing to bring with you.
   
                                               
4. They’re for everyone! Despite the gendered title, the “hostess” is for party-givers across the gender spectrum. Believe it or not, men often host gatherings too, and are just as deserving of a little extra acknowledgement of the work. 
   
                                                                 
5. Thoughtful presentation. It’s not necessary to formally wrap your hostess gift, but if you’re able to present it in a gift bag with tissue paper or a simple bow, that will add festivity. Stay green and use a recycled paper bag or plain brown bag. A fancy gift card in unnecessary, but if you are able to find a minute to jot down a quick note of thanks to host, that will go a long way to adding heart to the gift (and avoiding confusion if the recipient isn’t able to open the gift during the event). 
   
                                                          
   
   But what to bring? Hostess gifts are often items that the host or hostess is able to enjoy at home. Here are some fool-proof ideas for holiday hostess gifts that are guaranteed to impress:

• A charcuterie board or a set of Cheese Knives
• Scented or (our favourite) Beeswax Candles
• Succulent plant/centerpiece or a bouquet of flowers
• Chocolates
• Preserves
• Olive oil and Balsamic
• Coasters
• Tea towels
• Potted herbs
• Soaps
   
                                                    

The conventions around the giving of hostess gifts are not always clear, but now you have the tools to master this oft-misunderstood gesture. These days, fewer and fewer people uphold the custom, therefore it is especially meaningful to arrive at your holiday dinner with wine and little something extra. Your care and consideration will express your gratitude and infuse your holiday event with the spirit of reciprocity!