Delight your host and say “thanks” with these thoughtful presents.
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Attending dinner parties and visiting someone else’s home for the weekend are a joy, but choosing the perfect present to express your gratitude to the host can often feel like a challenge. The best hostess gifts are thoughtful, perhaps a little luxurious, and always attuned to their tastes.
“Good gifts include gourmet olive oil, embroidered linen napkins, monogrammed coasters, flowers in a vase, specialty coffees or teas, and anything chocolate,” says Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach.
We've carefully curated a list of fabulous hostess gifts that fit the bill and will help make your selection a breeze. Whether it's a personalized piece, a chic home decor item, or a gourmet gift basket, each item on this list has been chosen for its ability to delight and show your appreciation. This diverse collection is designed to cater to various tastes, occasions, and budgets, making finding the best host or hostess gift a pleasure rather than a chore.
Beautifully packaged and wonderfully fragrant, this luxury candle set from Nest is a delightful way to thank your host. Bonus: They’ll think of you every time one of the six scents fills their home.
Price at time of publish: $46
For hosts who love a thought-provoking conversation, give them Esther Perel's card game to pull out after the dinner plates have been cleared. The deck comes with 280 cards so guests will never get bored, whether it’s their first or 50th time playing.
Price at time of publish: $40
For the coffee connoisseur, this sampler offers a taste journey through multiple coffee profiles. The set not only includes multiple flavors from around the world, but also a tasting form and flavor wheel to help the coffee lover better understand their tastes and what they might like to try next.
Price at time of publish: From $22
Spice up your host's cooking with this organic extra virgin olive oil, cold-infused with fresh, hand-picked herbs from the Flamingo Estate gardens. The gift set also comes with salsa macha and honey from the Estate, too.
Price at time of publish: $106
Treat your host to an array of world-class flavors with this spice collection. From garlic pepper butcher’s rub for the barbeque to shallot and herb seasoning to elevate even the most simple of salmon dishes, the set truly has something for everyone.
Price at time of publish: $42
A box of gourmet French macarons is a sophisticated treat that your host is sure to appreciate.
Price at time of publish: $49
Give your host the gift of whimsical elegance with these lobster-embroidered cotton napkins. They're the ideal finishing touch to any coastal-themed or summer dinner party.
Price at time of publish: $30
This luxury reed diffuser from Harlem Candle Company is inspired by the legendary performer Josephine Baker. The sophisticated scent adds an air of opulence and culture to any home.
Price at time of publish: $52
Made from premium merino wool felt, these minimalist coasters are functional for hosting and have a dash of modern flair.
Price at time of publish: $26
Who said you need alcohol to have a good time? This non-alcoholic sparkling wine from French Bloom is a refreshing and inclusive gift for any occasion.
Price at time of publish: $44
A custom gift always feels special, and this personalized serving board is no exception. Perfect for the host who loves to entertain, it's as special and stylish as it is practical.
Price at time of publish: From $45
This vegan leather box with 36 assorted organic teas will add a touch of sophistication to your host's tea collection, offering a cup for every mood and occasion.
Price at time of publish: $99
A gift of pure indulgence, this silk pillowcase will ensure your host's bed is as stylish as the rest of their decor.
Price at time of publish: $99
Lend some light and elegance to their space with this set of two sculptural taper candles from Better Homes & Gardens' Walmart line (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Real Simple’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). Choose from eight colors, ranging from pink and green to orange and dark blue.
Price at time of publish: $7 for 2-pack
This candle holder set is a clean, modern addition to any decor. Pair it with the colorful taper candles above to complete your hostess gift.
Price at time of publish: From $20
Perfect for the aspiring mixologist, this smoking kit from Crate & Barrel has everything your host needs to whip up delectable creations for cocktail hour.
Price at time of publish: $90
Entertaining becomes even more enjoyable with this beautifully designed chess set that can provide hours of fun during your time as a guest and long beyond.
Price at time of publish: $69
Combining fresh fruit and artisan cheese, this gift is sure to be a crowd-pleaser whenever it’s pulled out. From pears to nuts to gourmet cheeses, the crate has everything you need for a spread before dinner or on a lazy afternoon.
Price at time of publish: $100
This stunning dried flower arrangement is a long-lasting token of appreciation that will add a touch of nature to your host's home.
Price at time of publish: From $30
Perfectly mixed and ready to serve, this classic negroni brings a taste of Italy to any party.
Price at time of publish: $39
These vibrant and colorful stemless wine glasses are a thoughtful gift for any wine lover and design enthusiast.
Price at time of publish: $75
Ideal for devoted pet parents, this custom pet portrait will bring a personalized touch to your host’s home decor and make them smile whenever they look at it.
Price at time of publish: $9
This beautiful book offers inspiration for anyone who loves to entertain. It’s filled with stunning imagery and expert advice on planning a party, along with a diary to record dinner guest lists and menus.
Price at time of publish: $145
Handcrafted and versatile, this mug is a simple but thoughtful gift that your host will use daily.
Price at time of publish: $40
Sleek, stylish, and sustainable, the Aarke Carbonator III will allow your host to make sparkling water at home in seconds. And although it’s an investment, it will quickly become a favorite for guests who love sparkling water, not to mention saving them countless trips to the store, along with disposable bottles.
Price at time of publish: $229
Add a splash of color to your host's table setting with this vibrant placemat set.
Price at time of publish: $75
This beautifully crafted vase will add a touch of elegance to any space. You can further enhance this host gift by bringing it filled with a special bud.
Price at time of publish: $22
This set of hand wash and lotion offers a touch of spa-like luxury to any kitchen or bathroom. Both have the calming scent of lavender and cedarwood.
Price at time of publish: $38
Give the gift of comfort with these cashmere ballet flats that are as cozy as they are chic.
Price at time of publish: $135
Bring some fun and nostalgia to the party with these disposable film cameras. They're a great conversation starter and a way to capture memorable moments on your visit.
Price at time of publish: $41
A sleek and chic gift for the organized host, this black notebook can be personalized with their initials for an extra special touch.
Price at time of publish: $69
Any host will welcome an assortment of artisanal ice creams to bring a sweet touch to any gathering.
Price at time of publish: $68
Personalized notecards are a classic and thoughtful gift for the host who values thoughtful correspondence.
Price at time of publish: $66
This miniature citrus tree adds a pop of green and can even provide your host with fresh fruit right in their home.
Price at time of publish: $65
Gift them a modern, versatile pitcher that's perfect for mixing up refreshing drinks or simply displaying as a sleek piece of kitchenware.
Price at time of publish: $40
Full of heartwarming tales of Taiwanese-American culture along with mouthwatering recipes, this cookbook is perfect for the host who loves global cuisines.
Price at time of publish: $40
These vibrant napkins will bring a pop of color to any dining table, making every meal a festive occasion.
Price at time of publish: $60
This pair of glass flutes is a sleek and elegant gift, adding a modern touch to any home bar.
Price at time of publish: $96
For the host who loves a good game night, this stylish deck of cards will elevate any evening of entertainment.
Price at time of publish: $14
You could chill your wine in the fridge, but where’s the fun in that? For the hostess who knows how to set a good table and throw a good party, this stylish cheetah print ice bucket would make a fun and fashionable addition to any party.
Price at time of publish: $98
There’s no need to spend a large amount of money or put any financial strain on yourself to delight your host. There are plenty of affordable options that will make anyone happy, and a good hostess gift does abide by the maxim that it’s the thought that counts. Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, agrees. “Spend whatever you can afford,” she says. “Host gifts are generally small and affordable, including many under $50.”
Plenty of products make for good hostess gifts, especially those that fall under the realm of home, kitchen, and personal care. When it comes to house-related gifts, consider items that contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere. For instance, a beautifully crafted vase, a set of scented candles, or a stylish coffee table book can enhance a home's decor and provide a daily reminder of your appreciation.
For the kitchen, gourmet ingredients, unique utensils, and specialty beverages make for excellent gifts. A gourmet olive oil or a selection of artisanal teas can elevate everyday meals into something extraordinary. Alternatively, a well-crafted serving board or a chic apron can be both practical and delightful.
While the universe of potentially wonderful hostess gifts is large, there are a few categories you might want to avoid to maximize the chances that your gift will be both loved and used. “Avoid giving alcohol if you aren’t sure the host drinks,” Whitmore says. “And even if he or she does, don’t give alcohol unless you know it’s their favorite blend.”
Other recommendations to avoid giving your host a gift they don’t end up using? “Avoid anything with a heavy fragrance,” Whitmore says. “What might appeal to you may or may not appeal to the host.” It’s also best to double-check before making a final selection for your host to make sure nothing is out of date and the seals are intact. And as funny as you might think a gag gift is, these can be risky, so it’s best to stick with tried and true delights your host will actually be able to use and enjoy.
This article was written by Elizabeth Loomis, a seasoned writer who has spent years covering lifestyle topics that have given her a discerning eye for what makes a gift both delightful and memorable. From her time reporting on the latest trends in interior design for The Zoe Report to her work exploring the dynamic world of beauty for InStyle, she's developed an understanding of how aesthetics and functionality can merge to create standout products. Her expansive coverage of lifestyle topics for Well + Good, The Spruce, and other lifestyle publications has further enhanced her sense of the beautiful, the functional, and the unique. To compile this list, she spoke with Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, and combed through countless products to bring you the best of the best.
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