We have officially entered the season of dinner parties and holiday gatherings. And while there is every reason for you to be ecstatic about attending a party, don’t forget what your mother always used to say, “Never show up empty-handed.” No, there’s no need to empty the wallet to find the perfect gift for your host, but your gift should be thoughtful and specific to them whether it’s homemade or store-bought. Whether your gift for hosts is of long-term use or maybe a food product that could be added to the party, make sure it’s something special that your host will like.
1. Candles
Let’s be honest. If your host is brave and festive enough to throw a holiday dinner party, then chances are he or she probably loves home decor items. And who doesn’t love candles? But don’t bring the cheap, chemical-filled candles to your host. Either make your own, or opt for a candle made with natural ingredients with their favourite scent.
2. Honey
Maybe not the first thing to pop into your head, but many people use honey as a sweetener in place of sugar. And chances are, they’re always buying more. Not to mention it’s super easy to find honey in luxurious packaging. It makes for a quick and thoughtful gift that still looks lavish.
3. Drink Mixes
Going to a holiday party with cocktails? Bring your favourite drink mixes! Whether it’s a gourmet Caesar mix, some pickled asparagus, pickled carrots, or even mulling spices, there is a high chance that your host may at some point need some restocking throughout the party as more and more people show up.
4. Hot Sauce
You probably didn’t expect to see this on the list, but you have to agree a delicious, gourmet hot sauce is not easy to find, especially one that really caters to your palate. Find a couple of your favourites and bring it to the party!
5. Herb Bouquet
Forget flowers. Herbs are what everyone really needs during the holiday party season. Seriously, which holiday dish doesn’t have herbs in it? Find sprigs of rosemary, sage, thyme, and basil, and tie them with a ribbon. Pop them in a small-mouthed mason jar to make it decorative.
6. Bar Soap
Whether it’s body soap or hand soap, this is a daily essential that gets replaced constantly. Share the love and joy by gifting the host your favourite soap vendor and scent. There’s something classy about bar soaps. They look terrific as individual gifts and can make a washroom look the part!
7. Essential Oils
Is your host a lover of nebulizers? A bath enthusiast? Get him or her essential oils! Essential oils come in such a wide range of scents that everyone is bound to have a favourite. Find out what your host’s favourite essential oil is and surprise them at their party.
Clear your mind with your favourite scent.
8. Chocolate
There is never a shortage of local chocolatiers, and finding good ones is always an adventure. You just never really know! Find a few chocolates with unique flavours from your favourite local chocolatier, and bring it to the party. Let your host revel in an adventure of trying new flavours of delicious chocolate.
9. Cheese
Can you really have a party without a charcuterie board? And what’s a charcuterie board without cheese? Cheese is something you can’t go wrong with, and it definitely has enough gourmet esteem to pass as the perfect gift for hosts. You don’t have to be a turophile to appreciate cheese. Your host will love you for it.
Be the turophile you’re meant to be.
Do you have any gift ideas for hosts? Share with us any successful items you’ve gifted in the past. Hosting a big party is no easy feat. Our hosts deserve the love.