Gift Guide 2017: For the Host/Hostess

Plaid Cocktail Napkins// Mug// Champagne Bears

Slippers// Ornament

Champagne Shot Glasses// Wreath// Candle

Plaid Throw// Dog Toy// Cards Against Humanity

Today is the kick off for gift guides! And, of course, we are starting with some gifts for the host or hostess (see last year's here). I like to start off with this guide every year because these are ideas that are great year round. Whether you're going to a summer barbecue, a night-before-Thanksgiving party, or Christmas Eve at your boyfriend's parents, these gifts are always good to give!

I write this on here a lot, but I have drawers full of gifts just like these to keep on hand. When in a pinch, I always think a bottle of wine is appropriate, but I always like to go above and beyond. It's a lot of work to host a party or dinner or event, and it's always nice to show your appreciation. I'll do several more host/hostess guides this season, so keep an eye out for that. This is one of my most requested guides! 

Cocktail Napkins// I think any type of cocktail napkins make a great gift. Whether they're embroidered with their initials (like these) or themed for the holidays, you can't go wrong! I don't think you can ever have too many sets. You can also grab some paper napkins at a lot of grocery stores. Caspari has the prettiest designs and I know they sell them at stores such as Homegoods and Fresh Market! 

Mug// I love mugs and they are another thing that you really can't have 'too many' of. I like to pair it with a pound of ground coffee, a box of tea, or a Starbucks card. 

Champagne Bears// I am a huge candy person, so I always love receiving candy. But these champagne bears are really something special. I get them each year and you actually put them in your champagne. They're delicious on their own, too, but as the bears soak up the champagne, they become even better! 

Slippers// If you are visiting a single girlfriend, I think it's always fun to get something for her that's pampering. I love these adorable slippers, but other good ideas are lip balm set, eye gel patches, or face mask sets. Basically anything slightly frivolous and luxe that you probably wouldn't buy on your own!

An Ornament// I love these ginger jar ornaments, don't you?! They come in a set of 6 so you could either give the entire set as a gift, or you could just give one here and there! I love receiving ornaments because then they become sentimental and will remind you of the person or the event! The ornaments also come in a pretty red!

Champagne Shot Glasses// How fun are these?! They are shot glass-sized champagne flutes! Slightly cheesy, but if your host or hostess loves champagne, I think this is amazing. Getting something that's fun and casual like these shot glasses is perfect if you know the person really well or if it will be a wilder party. Maybe a formal dinner party would not be the place for these, but a really fun Christmas Eve cocktail party would be the perfect place! 

Wreath// Most wreaths are pricey, but I think they really make an impression and something they'll have all holiday season long! I just love this boxwood wreath with the navy ribbon. It's so simple and classic. Williams-Sonoma has an incredible collection of gorgeous wreaths!

Candle// This is pretty basic, I know, but I LOVE candles. This particular scent is my current favorite. Voluspa makes reasonably priced candles, but some of my other favorites to impress are Jo Malone and Diptyque. I also think it's fun to get a cute box of matches to pair with the candle! 

Throw Blanket// This is one of those things where you can find at almost any budget. I personally love this plaid monogrammed option. It would be a lovely gift- especially if you are an overnight guest around Christmas or Thanksgiving!

Dog Toy// Don't forget their pets! I always think this is such a cute idea and the pups will love it! 

Cards Against Humanity// This game is absolutely hilarious and so much fun when played in big groups. Such a fun thing to bring to a party! 

If You're Pressed for Time:

- Bottle of Wine

- Pound of coffee (if they don't drink)

- Cookies/dessert of some kind (bring it on a pretty platter like this for them to keep!

- Gift card to their favorite restaurant 

- Gift card for a manicure (with a cute note about the hostess pampering her hands after doing all of the dishes!) 

After You Visit:

- A handwritten note (always do this, especially if you are staying overnight!)

- Flowers

- Hello Fresh (or any other meal subscription for the week with a cute note like 'you cooked all weekend, so here's something to make it easy this week!)

More Host/Hostess Gift Ideas: