Hostess Gifts - Selecting A Gift That Will Garner Appreciation, Not Dust

It’s only good manners to bring something when you’re a guest in someone’s home. Manners and good breeding aside though, buying that gift, especially if you don’t know your host very well, can be daunting. Here are some tips to keep in mind in order to give a gift that will end up in use, not in the back of a dark cupboard.

• Purchase Something Your Host Wants or Will Like

Duh, right? Believe it or not, most people buy others things they want themselves. We’re all guilty of it. If I have to buy a gift for someone who is not a book lover, I panic. Unless you want to have your gift propping up a wobbly table, take into consideration your host. Is there anything he or she has told you they enjoy, or particularly want?

• But What If I Don’t Know What My Host Wants or Enjoys?

Of course, there are situations where you really don’t know your host. Whether you’ve met them only once or twice, or never before, there are a few items you can rely on in a pinch. If your host entertains often, serving trays are always appreciated. If you fear your host may have too many trays already, consider a wooden cheese tray. One can never have too many wooden cheese trays, right?

• Wine

Wine is another old standby, but before you think you’re saved and run out to the liquor store, check to ensure your host drinks. The last thing you need is to hand a recovering alcoholic a bottle of wine. If you already know your host occasionally indulges, but aren’t sure what kind of wine they like, consider your favourites. Telling your host that you purchased your very favourite wine for them is a touching gesture, regardless of whether or not they like that particular vintage.

• Make a Basket

Blessed are the creative, in my opinion. If you have even the slightest bit of creativity inside you, consider creating a gift basket. Fill the gift basket with your favourite bath products, some wine, a candle, or anything else you can come up with! If you live in a rainy climate, even a compact umbrella will be a unique addition to the basket!

If you’re not creative yourself, hire a basket specialist or purchase a pre-made basket from your local department or drug store.

• Stay Away From Food

Many people suggest giving chocolate or cheese trays. If you don’t know your host very, very well, stay away from giving food. A box of chocolates sounds sweet (no pun intended), but if your host is on a diet, is a diabetic or a vegan, they won’t appreciate your gift. Your host could have dietary restrictions you don’t know about, so until you’ve had the oh-so-important “are you allergic to anything” conversation, it’s a good idea to steer clear of food.

• Gift Cards

Some people think gift cards are impersonal. I think they’re genius. There’s nothing like picking out something nice and not paying a dime for it. Spas, shoe stores, coffee shops, clothing stores, bookstores, hardware stores and iTunes are some great ideas for gift cards. If they host parties often, you could even get them a murder mystery game gift certificate for their next gathering! For Shot In The Dark Mysteries gift certificates, email mysterymaiden@shotinthedarkmysteries.com. Tuck your gift certificate into a nice greeting card and you have a nice gift!

• Deliver your Gift in a Decorative Box

Whatever your gift, put it inside a decorative box. Not only will it make your gift look nice, your host can also use it later for a photo box, or something else.

Remember, good manners cost nothing. Honour your good breeding by putting a bit of thought into a gift for your host. If you pick the right item, you’ll be sure to receive an invitation to the next bash!