When it comes to finding the perfect hostess gift, the key is striking a balance between thoughtfulness and practicality. As someone who has hosted countless dinner parties, weekend brunches, and the occasional impromptu gathering, I can assure you that the most memorable gifts are those that reflect both the giver’s personality and the recipient’s style.
Hosting: What Makes a Gift Memorable
Let me start with a little personal anecdote: one of my favorite gifts as a hostess was a beautifully wrapped olive oil infused with lemon. Not only was it useful (hello, easy salad dressing!), but it also felt luxurious without being over the top. It’s those small touches—a thoughtful detail, a hint of indulgence—that make a gift truly special.
When I host, I’m always delighted by gifts that show a little extra effort. A bottle of wine is classic, of course, but a unique bottle with a story behind it? Even better. One guest brought me a bottle of natural wine with a handwritten note about where they discovered it. I still think about that gesture.
The Quiet Luxury of Thoughtful Giving
The idea of “quiet luxury” has been buzzing lately, and for good reason. It’s less about flashy branding and more about timeless elegance and quality. Think about a beautifully scented candle in a minimalist design, a set of linen napkins, or a small batch artisanal jam—things that bring beauty and utility to everyday life.
One of my go-to gifts for hosts is a hand-poured soy candle with a subtle fragrance, like fig or vetiver. It’s understated yet indulgent, and it works in almost any home. Another favorite is a set of gorgeous tea towels—something every kitchen needs, but elevated with a pretty pattern or luxe material.
Tailoring Gifts to Interests
A hostess gift doesn’t have to be one-size-fits-all. Consider the host’s personal interests or the occasion itself:
For the culinary enthusiast: Gourmet salts, a unique spice blend, or a beautifully bound cookbook.
For the entertainer: A sleek cheese board, elegant wine stoppers, or cocktail napkins with a bit of wit.
For the cozy homebody: A soft throw blanket, a small succulent, or a box of premium herbal teas.
And don’t overlook seasonal touches. In the fall, a jar of spiced honey or a mini pumpkin arrangement can be perfect. For winter gatherings, a tin of handmade hot cocoa mix feels festive and personal.
Hostess Gifts I Love to Receive
Personally, I’m a sucker for anything edible or drinkable. Local honey, craft chocolate, or even a jar of homemade chutney always feel so thoughtful. I also appreciate gifts that help me relax after the party, like bath salts or a good-quality hand lotion.
If you want to add an extra layer of charm, include a note. Even a short “thank you for having us” transforms a simple gift into something much more meaningful. After all, the true essence of a hostess gift isn’t about the item itself but the sentiment behind it.
The Art of Giving, Elegantly
A great hostess gift doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s about choosing something that feels intentional and aligned with the recipient. Whether it’s a beautifully wrapped bar of artisanal soap or a set of handmade ceramic coasters, the best gifts celebrate the little joys in life.
So next time you’re invited to a gathering, skip the generic box of chocolates and opt for something with a little more soul. Trust me, your host will thank you—and so will your future invitations.
Without furhter ado, I'm sharing some of my favorite (and my friend's favorite) hostess gifts to both give and receive.
This beautiful serving board will be appreciated not only for the thoughtfulness of the personalization but I have no doubt you'll see this used for years to come at any other parties or events you attend at your host's home.
Buy at Crate and Barrel: Monogrammed Serving Board
Perfect for the foodie hostess. I have one of these and I like to record the recipes when I have a dinner party or host holidays. I note who was over, when it happened, etc. It's super fun to go back through this and recall all the fun times.
Buy on Amazon: Blank Recipe Book
An elegant addition to any coffee table or hutch. Pairing the Skeem Glass Matches with a favorite candle is a great cohesive gift.
Buy on Amazon: Skeem Glass Match Cloche with Striker
We have played this so many times as just our nuclear family and at dinner parties. This is a great gift for a host or hostess who has a blended group who may not know each other well and will keep the small talk moving.
Buy on Amazon: TableTopics
Not going to lie, I use this olive oil on the daily and I think i've given it as a gift a mininum of a dozen times. A great hostess gift or even for your favorite cook as a holiday or birthday gift. These bottles look chic and cool sitting out on any countertop.
Buy on Amazon: Graza Olive Oil Gift Set
Is your host chic and knows style when they see it? This gorgeous jadeite glass cake stand is such a lovely way to say thank you to your host.
Buy on Amazon: Martha Stewart Highbrook Jadeite Glass Cake Stand
I adore giving luxurious hand soaps and lotions. Rarely do we treat ourselves to these things so when you give it as an unexpected gift, it's all the more meaningful. I learned about this brand when I was in Paris 10 years ago and have been buying it for people ever since.
Buy on Amazon: Aesop Hand Soap
For all those coffee lovers, you can't go wrong with a hostess gift of beans. Cafe Du Monde is an infamous well-known restaurant in New Orleans. It's a good cup of Joe.
Buy on Amazon: Cafe Du Monde Coffee Chicory
This is genius and I just ordered one for myself. This little bread blanket keeps your favorite loaf nice and warm. If you want to give a unique hostess gift you are sure she doesn't yet have, this is it.
Buy at Uncommon Goods: Bread Warming Blanket
I actually just hosted a holiday dinner party yesterday and a wedding gift that we received, Waterford candle holders, on the table. When i went to find candle sticks, I was chalk out. This is a great gift for any hostess to add candlelight ambiance to any party.
Buy at Anthropologie: Fluted Taper Candles
For the host or hostess that loves to create a craft of signature cocktail for their parties. Such a fun thing to have on hand and a great conversation piece.
Buy at Uncommon Goods: Infuse & Pour Alcohol Kit
A beautiful and decorative butter dish is such a sweet gift. Surely this would be treasured by any hostess.
Buy on Anthropolgie: Old Havana Butter Dish
I love the idea of giving this book, which celebrates the beauty of gatherings, with a lovely loaf of homemade bread or specialty baked goods from a local bakery.
Buy at Amazon: Sunday Suppers: Recipes + Gatherings: A Cookbook
I think everyone wants a home that's warm and inviting and has a pleasant smell. This is a thoughtful and more unique gift than a standard candle.
Buy at Crate&Barrel: Geranium + Bergamot Diffuser
For those hosts and hostesses with a sense of humor, this is perfect. Who says that a hostess gift has to be anything but funny?
Buy on Amazon: Smells Like A Hostess Candle
These little rose shaped soaps are gorgeous and would look beautiful in any powder room. They also smell amazing and luxuriously scent any bathroom.
Buy on Amazon: Scented Soap Petals
Cheers to the party and dinner invites in your future!
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