Summer barbecues, newlywed housewarmings, or simple family get-togethers are just a few examples of events that may leave you scrambling for ideas on what to bring as a host/hostess gift. Do you go big and bold or do you turn to the fail-safe bottle of wine? I’m not saying anything is wrong with a nice bottle of their favorite wine, but I’m here to help you think outside the bottle with a beautifully created gift basket. Gift baskets are the perfect gift because they are so versatile and are great for any gifting occasion. I’m sure you know how easy it is to spend hours shopping and searching for that perfect gift, so to make your life a little easier (in the gifting department at least) I want to give you a few host/hostess gifting options that will help you shine at your next party.
Occasion Gifts
So let’s start with the occasion for the gift, let’s begin with a housewarming party. The housing market is up so the probability of you getting invited to a housewarming party is high. No matter if it’s a first-time home buyer, or a couple downsizing, these gift options suit any new homeowner. Consider things the person or couple can use in the new home. For example, a wooden cutting or cheese board with a set of cheese knives and tea towels are a great gift combination. Another gifting option would be a neutral colored picture frame combined with a fresh-scented candle and matches. If you know the recipients new home has a wood burning fireplace, add in some fireplace matches, a bundle of kindling, and a luxurious throw. A side note about throws: There is a misconception about gifting a throw when temperatures are not colder, but they can be given all year round.
Seasonal Gifts
Another option is to think seasonal when coming up with the perfect host’s gift basket. This is always fun because you can let your creative juices flow and if your creative juices are all dried up, we can help you. To start let’s go with a spring/summer-themed gift basket. Summer is when most people spend a lot of time outside, so creating a gift basket for the friend who’s into gardening would be appreciated. A trowel, with a pair of garden gloves and seeds or bulbs, would be a great gift that will flourish all season long.
Help the host celebrate the cooler temperatures of fall with a door wreath or doormat and a fall-scented candle. Or how about a night around the campfire with a gift basket with all the fixings for making delicious s’mores.
Winter is the perfect season for staying inside and baking a few of their favorite yummy desserts, so treat them to a basket brimming with everything they’ll need to complete a cozy night in. Include measuring spoons, a wooden spoon, and a great dessert cookbook. This will definitely be a gift any baker would love.
KISS
Keep it simple, and don’t stress out. These times together with friends and/or family are not all about the perfect gift, they are about making lasting memories with people you care about. The gift is about showing them your gratitude for that invitation. My motto is to never walk into a party empty-handed. There is a lot of work that goes into planning a get-together, showing up with a gift means you understand that. Take something you know they love and let it become a part of their lives in a way that always reminds them of you. Always remember, that every gift should tell a story. The gift is less about what is inside and more about the message you are sending them through its contents.
Happy gift giving!
