A Few of My Favorite Go-To’s for Holiday Hosts and Hostesses
The holidays bring with them parties after parties, receptions, and visits with cherished friends and family. On top of all of the gift-giving, shopping, and decorating, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why I try to keep a few different host and hostess gifts handy so all that’s needed is a quick bow and a little card as we’re walking out the door.
(Wearing J. McLaughlin ruffled blouse – similar here, J. Crew tartan skirt – similar here)
Holiday Spirits
A good bottle of bubbles, rose, or red are always great gifts for the host or hostess. You can never have too many bottles around the house, especially around the holidays. Wrap a wired ribbon around the bottle for a festive bow and you’re all set.
You can also add paper straws wrapped in a bow (these gold ones are wonderful) and a pack of fun cocktail napkins (I love these flamingos, these, and these Greek Key napkins all by Caspari). These linen August Morgan Christmas cocktail napkins are also so much fun and a great conversation starter.
I also think it’s fun to pick up sparkling apple cider for friends who are expecting or have a few little ones. Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s carry non-alcoholic fizzy beverages in fun flavors.
Poinsettias
Is there anything that shouts “happy holidays” from the rooftops more than this festive plant? Possibly, but I’m so fond of these little red and green beauties that I love spreading the cheer by bringing them along to a host. Just be careful as they can sometimes cause upset stomachs in furry friends if ingested.
Pro tip: Make sure that the poinsettia is in its own planter (most typically are) and that it’s been watered. That way the only thing your host or hostess will have to worry about is how to properly hug you while juggling a glass of wine and his or her newest plant.
Holiday Candles
I love a good holiday scent and almost always have candles burning in our home. There are some gorgeous scents for the holidays that make perfect hostess gifts. This Frasier Fir candle is a classic and Nest has a great one as well.
Williams Sonoma has some wonderful gift sets for the host or hostess to use in the kitchen. They’re on sale right now, too.
Ornaments
If creating wired ribbon bows isn’t quite your cup of tea, you can always include a festive ornament along with your wine or other hostess gift. This Hamilton ornament is so witty and fun. I love it. These blue and white hand-painted pagoda ornaments are a lovely something extra for the host or hostess with a classic taste and just about everything.
Cheers, and happy gifting!
