Well, the holidays are officially upon us even if it’s Halloween tomorrow. I’m in full-gear planning amazing, useful holiday posts for you and one that I am always asked for is hostess gift ideas. And not just the same old bottle of wine or candle! I took a bit of time to brainstorm this list of truly awesome, desirable hostess gift ideas and I hope you like it. Also, be sure to let me know what you think of this new format!
Unexpected Hostess Gift Ideas That They Actually Want
I’m doing gift guides a little differently this year and curating lists based on budget. I hope you like this change! In my opinion, the key to giving a good hostess gift is planning. I noticed that when I didn’t plan ahead, I defaulted to picking up a bottle of wine on our way. Sort of lame and expected, huh? But if you know that you’ve got a dinner party or holiday party on your calendar, you can put in a bit more effort! I’m sure your host will appreciate the thought.
Hostess Gift Ideas, under $25
Food markers, $12
I absolutely love the idea of giving a hostess a gift they will actually use in the future while entertaining. These food markers are charming and perfect for helping to identify food sensitivities, thus making the host’s job easier!
Washed cotton napkin set, $22
A set of soft napkins with pretty eyelet stitching makes for a fab gift that will get you invited back.
Smile back massager, $8
Help the host take a load off after the party with this super-cute, ’90s throwback back massager.
2-Piece wick trimmer and candle snuffer set, $25.90
Ok, these candle tools are slightly over the budget, but such a great gift!
Jute trivet set, $22
Every time I host, I feel like I never have enough trivets — I’m sure yours feels the same! These trivets will come in handy in a pinch.
Balsamic vinegar of Modena IGP, $22
This fancy vinegar is straight from the source of the best in the world and is certified!
2020 Lunar Calendar, $20
Treat your host to a hand-drawn lunar calendar that they will want to keep even after the end of the year.
Marble and glass decanter, $19.95
I love how the marble adds a touch of luxury to this otherwise basic decanter.
Vanilla glossed ceramic case, $22
I find that people typically bring flowers as a gift, but forget the vase! Show up with this handmade ceramic vase and you’ll save the day.
Hostess Gift Ideas, under $50
Subscription Flower Service, $30
If you’d like to give a gift that continues to give and you’re local to Seattle, I highly suggest looking into The Stemmery! Disclosure, Sarah is a good friend of mine and a contributor here on the blog, but that doesn’t change how genius her business is. With her floral subscription service, you can choose to gift a bouquet on a weekly, biweekly, or monthly basis.
Nothing Fancy: Unfussy Food for Having People Over, $32.50
Giving a cookbook could guarantee that you’re invited back next time so that you can test out the new menu!
Giant tumbling tower game, $50
When dinner is over and dessert’s been served, guests can gather ’round this fun game for some laughs.
Round raw edge tree ring cutting board, $29.99
A beautiful wooden cutting board makes the perfect gift, especially for someone who loves to entertain. I love that this one can be hung up from the string, too.
Wood essential oil diffuser, $35
Give the gift of aromatherapy with this charming wooden diffuser.
Brass pour over coffee dripper stand, $39.99
After dinner comes coffee, at which point this pour over stand will be the star of the show!
Lavender citrus + matcha mint bath salt duo, $44
Encourage your host to take a load off after the party with these soothing essential oil infused bath salts.
Framed greenhouse terrarium, $34
A terrarium is definitely a cool, unexpected gift for the hostess this holiday season. Bonus points for including a few air plants!
Brass coaster set, $38
These solid brass coasters will patina over time, making them almost like an heirloom. Plus, you’ll be helping your host protect their furniture.
I didn’t include any gift suggestions that were over $50 because that just felt like too much to spend (or is that just me?) Maybe I don’t go to fancy enough occasions, but spending anything over $50 on a hostess gift feels excessive to me. And don’t forget to include a hand written thank you note!
Check out the rest of my 2019 Gift Guides:
- My Go-To Gifts for the Holidays
- My Annual Plant Lover Gift Guide
- Purr-fect Cat Lady Gift Ideas
- Gift Ideas for Your Husband, Brother, & Dad
- Sustainable Gift Ideas for Your Earth-Loving, Hippie Friend
- Practical & Stylish Small Home Gift Ideas
- Thoughtful Gift Ideas to Encourage Self-Care
- Ultimate Gifts for the Chicken Lady
