The holiday season is here! Are you attending a holiday party or dinner and wondering what to bring for the hostess? Maybe you are looking to switch it up from the tried-and-true bottle of red wine- I know I am! According to the etiquette guru herself, Emily Post, while not required, gifts for the hostess are always appreciated and go a long way showing your thanks for the hospitality.
A good place to start is to ask yourself “what type of gift would I like to receive?” Second, consider the audience. For example, if a member of the household is sensitive to scents (or you are unsure) rethink a candle or fragrant flowers. Another category you may wish to avoid is food. The host has carefully planned the meal and may feel obligated to serve your dish, unless asked to.
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I wanted to kick off this list with something I am excited about, a spin on Advent calendars! Tired of the cardboard ones with cheap chocolate? Or, maybe you have children like I do who just eat it all (and not in the correct order). Below are some great updates to the classic Advent calendar.
Everyone’s favorite preserves company Bonne Maman released their 2023 limited edition Advent calendar, including 23 mini spreads and one honey. Coffee and tea lovers, here you go! Palais des Thés Joyeux Noël Tea Advent holiday calendar features 24 premium single estate herbal, black, oolong, rooibos, and green tea bags; the Keurig Advent calendar variety pack has 24 single serve K-Cup pods.
Most people like chocolate. Am I right or am I right? My absolute favorite European chocolate is made by Leonidas. Trust me, everyone at the party will devour the chocolate from Leonidas. There are many price points to fit any budget; I recommend this general assortment. Next, a splurge at $110, but the chocolate lover will appreciate the Compartes gourmet chocolate Advent calendar gift box. The Godiva Advent calendar has a friendly price tag at $45 and has milk, dark, and white chocolate assortment.
Tea towels make a wonderful gift because they are practical and have many options to find the perfect set for your host. Cotton would be the best material for tea towels as they are absorbent and wash well. Williams-Sonoma makes my personal favorite towels and will last for years. A classic red and green stripe or traditional tartan plaid are a good place to start! These Rifle Paper Co. towels are festive and come in a variety of patterns. Personalization adds an extra nice touch- this monogrammed wreath and embossed christmas tree are great options.
Plants are a classic gift you cannot go wrong with. For the holidays, consider the traditional Christmas cactus or a miniature spruce Christmas tree. Poinsettia plants are popular, be aware if the house has pets before gifting.
Candles can be tricky! I personally LOVE candles but I respect that not everyone shares that same sentiment. If you decide to go with a candle, try not to pick something overly sweet or artificial. This candle features traditional Christmas scents with a clean and modern jar. I am a big fan of the Hotel Lobby brand and this candle has the perfect Christmas tree scent to fill a room.
One thing I really love is a good platter to bring out on the holidays and hosting. This Spode Christmas tree platter is a true classic! Spode also makes a matching serving bowl. If the house you are attending has children, this gingerbread accent plate is whimsical without being overly cheesy (note: this is smaller, good for a dip!).
I saved the best for last, or so I think! Games! Alright, I know not everyone is into playing games but games can be a good ice breaker and come in aesthetically pleasing designs worthy of displaying. This colorful backgammon set is too pretty not to show off! This Scrabble vintage bookshelf edition will fit in perfectly on any bookshelf. I am a big fan of Galison puzzles; this one features a winter ice skating scene that is not overly bright.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click my link but does not change your price. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Let us know your favorite gift you have ever received as a hostess in the comments. Happy holidays!