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As someone who loves to entertain, I can tell you the best hostess gifts are the ones that make the next party even prettier. Skip the last-minute bottle of wine and bring something she will use and think of you every time. These are the best hostess gift ideas for holiday parties, dinner invitations and weekend visits.
What Makes a Great Hostess Gift
- Something she can use later. Don’t expect her to serve it that night. A gift for her to enjoy later takes the pressure off.
- Elevated everyday items. Olive oil, candles and napkins she would not splurge on herself.
- Beautiful packaging. A gift that arrives ready to give looks thoughtful.
- A reasonable price. Between $30 and $100 is the sweet spot.
- Entertaining-focused. Pieces that make her next gathering more beautiful are always appreciated.
1. Estelle Colored Glass Rose Stemmed Wine Glasses, Set of 6
Why We Love It: Estelle’s hand-blown colored glasses instantly make a table look special, and they are the most photographed glasses at any dinner party. They are about $195 for a set of six at Tuckernuck.
Best For: The hostess who loves a colorful, collected table.
2. Brightland The Duo Olive Oil Gift Set
Why We Love It: Brightland’s olive oil is delicious and comes in the prettiest bottles that look beautiful on a kitchen counter. It is a gift every cook will use. It is about $89 at Nordstrom.
Best For: The friend who loves to cook.
3. Diptyque Baies Classic Candle
Why We Love It: Baies is the candle I always come back to. The scent of blackcurrant and roses is fresh and festive, and the classic Diptyque label looks chic in any home. It is about $90 at Bloomingdale’s.
Best For: A classic hostess gift that never misses.
4. MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Serving Platter
Why We Love It: Courtly Check is instantly recognizable and so much fun on a holiday table. This platter is perfect for appetizers or desserts. It is about $100 at Macy’s.
Best For: The hostess with a playful, collected style.
5. LoveShackFancy Embroidered Cocktail Napkin Set
Why We Love It: Pretty cocktail napkins are one of my favorite little luxuries. These embroidered napkins make even a simple glass of wine feel like a party. A set of four is about $65 at LoveShackFancy.
Best For: The friend who loves a beautiful bar cart.
6. Scalloped Marble Cheese Board
Why We Love It: A marble cheese board is endlessly useful for charcuterie, desserts or as a tray on the coffee table. The scalloped edge makes this one feel special. It is about $32 at Birch Lane.
Best For: An affordable gift that looks expensive.
Hostess Gift Etiquette
- Bring it ready to give. Wrap it or use a gift bag so she can set it aside easily.
- Don’t expect it to be served. Let her know the wine or treats are for her to enjoy later.
- Add a note. A short handwritten card makes any gift more personal.
- Match the occasion. A candle or napkins for a dinner party, something bigger for a weekend stay.
- Send a thank-you. A text or note the next day is the perfect finishing touch.
Hosting this season? See our holiday table setting ideas, the best luxury candles and the best luxury bedding for your guest room.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an appropriate hostess gift?
A bottle of wine, a nice candle, gourmet olive oil, cocktail napkins or a serving piece are all appropriate hostess gifts. Aim for something she can enjoy later.
How much should I spend on a hostess gift?
Most hostess gifts fall between $30 and $100. For a weekend stay, it is thoughtful to spend a bit more.
Is wine a good hostess gift?
Wine is always welcome, but pairing it with something personal, like cocktail napkins or a candle, makes it feel more thoughtful.
What can I bring instead of wine?
Olive oil, a candle, a serving platter, colored glassware or a pretty cheese board are all great alternatives.
What is your go-to hostess gift? Tell us in the comments!
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