We’ve all been there: you get an unexpected house guest during the holiday season, and you don’t want them to leave empty handed. Or, the opposite happens, you get a last-minute invitation that you can’t really turn down…and you have to bring something, because you aren’t an animal…no…you’re a person who knows how to be polite.
Such is the plight of the modern hostess. You know the one. Everyone knows at least one. (I’m not the one.) The type of gracious person who makes sure every person who enters her home feels welcome and appreciated. Here you’ll find great gifts for your favorite hostess…why not pick up something special that will make her smile?
Monogrammed Soap & Towel Gift Set
Sure, if you have advanced notice, you can have the soaps personalized. But I’d go ahead and buy a few sets with a charmingly neutral “XOX,” though. Everyone can do with some hugs and kisses.
Nathalie Lete Helena Apron
The prettiest apron I’ve ever seen in my entire life, this apron might just change the “I don’t really cook” attitude I’ve had for the last three years.
Margarita Gift Set
There’s no two ways about it: this margarita set is stunning. I’d gift this with a bag of tortilla chips and a container of salsa from a favorite local Mexican restaurant.
Always Pan
The pan you’ve seen all over Instagram and TikTok would make a thoughtful gift. Slip a gift certificate to Whole Foods inside the gift bag so the recipient can make a special meal.
Handcrafted Acacia Wood Slab Cheese Board
Gift this beautifully rustic acacia wood board with a hunk of manchego and a glass of crisp white wine.
Quincy Composite Agate Cheese Board
Sure, you could gift this with cheese, but why not offer some decadent chocolate instead? Everyone has done a cheese plate…but a chocolate plate would be a fun take on an informal tasting.
Bartesian Premium Cocktail Maker
Genius. Absolutely genius. Fill the containers with whatever spirits you like: tequila, gin, vodka, rum, and let the cocktail maker dispense the perfect proportions of whatever mixed drink you like.
Caraway Baking Set
For the pal who watches The Great British Bake-Off and thinks ”I could do that,” this Caraway baking set is the perfect gift. I’d gift this, then try to finagle an invitation to brunch at the recipient’s house the next weekend.
Bleecker Bar Starter Gift Set
New products that look like old products are one of my favorite things. The Bleecker Bar set looks like something you’d find at your great-grandmother’s house, but with thoughtful, modern touches. The company is certified Fair Trade, which means the people who make these sets are fairly compensated, and the manufacturer backs community-boosting projects in the worker’s city.
Wild Groves Infused Olive Oil Set
Herb-infused olive oil is always a good idea, and this gift would make any hostess smile. Present with a gift card for a local pizza place so the recipient can drizzle the oil on top of their favorite slice.
Crafthouse Smoking Cloche
The hostess who loves throwing impressive dinner parties will practically weep with joy when you present her with this smoking cloche. And isn’t that what love is all about? Causing a loved one to break out in happy tears?
Waterfall Coupe Glasses
I love these glasses more than I like most people. I’d be tempted to keep the set of four glasses for myself and drink my orange juice out of them.
Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede 230 Hour Candle
Nobody does soft and romantic like Jo Malone, and the peony and blush suede candle offers a subtle-yet-pretty scent that smells upscale. I’d gift this with a book that I think the recipient would enjoy.
Truffleist Wood Gift Set
It’s a scientific fact: truffles make everything 87% better. This gift set of truffle-infused oil, honey, salt, and mustard would make a gourmand very, very happy.
Our Place Perfect Pot
Sure, Le Creuset is a classic, but the Our Place Perfect Pot is a work of art. Available in your choice of colors, the all-in-one pot can handle anything from roasting to braising to steaming with ease.
Handmade Alphabet Marble & Wood Coasters
An inexpensive-yet-classic home accessory, this under-$30 set of coasters is the perfect gift for a new friend. The type of gift that says “I come in peace,” and I also have good taste.
Jonathan Adler Gala Vase
We all have that friend. That friend who’s the loudest person in the room. Whose infectious laugh can cause everyone to stop and stare. Give that friend the gala vase to let her know that you love her magnetic personality.
Gucci Green Herbarium Teapot
When tea is more than something you sip — it’s an event — it’s time to consider the Gucci teapot.
Vintner’s Wine Opener
I love this wine opener — it looks like it could be a modern work of art or a vintage sex toy. Either way, this bad boy is meant for display.
Wüsthof Gourmet 12-Piece Knife Block Set
I once took a knife skills class at Williams Sonoma, so I’m totally a knife snob. Wüsthof is one of those legacy brands that is reliable, sturdy, and built to last. Don’t sleep on this gift set.
Who’s your favorite Hostess with the Mostest? What gift are you getting her from this list? Tell us in the comments below!
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