Choosing Great Gifts for Hosts
The key to a good host or hostess gift is that it falls into at least one of the following categories: helpful and general enough to be universally appreciated, discrete enough that it isn’t somehow an imposition to receive, special in a way that the host probably wouldn’t think to get it for themselves, relatively convenient for you to procure, and is actually for the person hosting the party, and not for the party itself.
The Best Hostess Gifts:
SiliconE Spoonulas
We’re a spoonula family. Look for one that’s constructed as one continuous piece, from the handle to the spoonula itself. Glued-on handles tend to break! Flexible with a sharp edge, we have a Di Oro spoonula for every member of the family and then some so we never have to fight for one.
Mini Whisk
When you gift this GIR mini whisk, you’re really gifting a lifetime of perfectly emulsified salad dressing. It’s an item that your host or hostess isn’t likely to already have in their kitchen, but it’s also a tool they’ll find themselves reaching for often. You can shop the full color range at GIR.
Microplane
A little kitchen luxury for zest, cheese, garlic, ginger, and nutmeg! This idea comes via Melissa Clark, and is very much spot on for hosting folk. It’s also one that they might not already have in their kitchen.
Milk Frothing Wand
This falls under the category of delightful things people have been meaning to buy, but haven’t yet. They’re usually rechargeable via USB and fit into crammed utensil drawers or desk drawers at the office!
Kitchen Scale
We’re always extolling the virtues of having a kitchen scale around, but they’re still really not common in American kitchens! This one may not be the coolest out there, but it is the most reliable one we’ve ever used.
"Good" Olive Oil
A very nice bottle of olive oil is a great alternative to the traditional choice—a bottle of alcoholic something. A nice and fruity one for dipping crusty bread or finishing off soups and pastas makes everything feel extra special.
Baggu Cooler Bag
I know we all have loads of reusable shopping bags now, but Baggu consistently comes out with unique and clever bags like this fun cooler bag. You can transport items for the party and leave it behind as a host gift—plus, you’re sure to find one that fits their taste and aesthetic!
Balsamic Glaze
In keeping with the "what can I get that isn’t a bottle of wine" theme, balsamic glaze feels special and a little fancy—and is also really versatile! You can make it yourself (The Mediterranean Dish has a recipe!), buy an affordable one, or go all out depending on your budget!
Cookie Dough
Make cookie dough, freeze it in a log, and include slice-and-bake instructions, so your host can enjoy warm cookies from the oven. (And without the pressure of having to share them with the whole party!) As Sarah said as I was writing up this guide, she would be thrilled with this gift!
Stone Journal
This journal serves as a kitchen companion for the experimental cook! The pages are made of water and greaseproof stone paper so there’s no runny ink! The cover is vegan leather and we love the red color!
Flakey Salt
Quality flakey salt is elevated and affordable and will be a hit even if the person in question already has a box stashed away! We love it sprinkled into salads, over eggs, or buttered toast for an extra hit of flavor
Those Brass Salt and Pepper Mills
I’ve been seeing these brass salt and pepper mills all over Pinterest and Instagram. It’s something that I would never buy for myself but would be totally and utterly delighted to receive.
That Hand Soap and Hand Cream
This will make anyone feel like the host with the most! With the stuff of bougie hotels and restaurants the world over, help make their home feel like an extra special getaway too!
Chinese Rolling Pin
For the kind of host who has every kitchen gadget, we’re pretty sure that the versatile and compact Chinese rolling pin will be a welcome addition. It’s great for making bao, dumplings, and just about any dough you might want to have some extra dexterity for.
Plate Gripper
If you’ve ever tried to get a dish out of the steamer and found yourself struggling with a dish towel to avoid burning yourself, this is the best, cleverest, "surprise and delight" kitchen gadget, helping lift hot dishes out of hot pots of steaming water.
Really Good Fruit
It’s deeply ingrained Chinese etiquette to bring large crates of superior quality fruit to parties, whether it’s ripe peaches or individually wrapped Asian pears. Anything that feels special and in season is great. How about, say, a medley of blood oranges, mineolas, clementines, lemons, and naval oranges in a basket? Heaven!
Flowers with a Vase
I know there are some hosts out there who balk at the idea of someone bringing unapproved flowers into their home, but we’re not those people. We love cut flowers. Bonus points if you find a beautiful vase (even if it’s thrifted!) to bring it in, so the host/hostess doesn’t have to spend time trimming stems after you arrive!.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a gift for your host or hostess, remember that the key is to find something that is helpful, discreet, special, and convenient. With these ideas, you’re sure to make a great impression and show your appreciation for the time and effort they put into hosting the party.
FAQs
Q: What are some popular host gift ideas?
A: Some popular host gift ideas include kitchen gadgets, fine wine, gourmet food, and luxurious linens.
Q: What is the best type of gift to bring to a dinner party?
A: A thoughtful and practical gift that the host or hostess can use in their daily life is usually the best.
Q: Can I bring a gift that is a little more personal?
A: Yes, personal and thoughtful gifts can be a great way to show your appreciation. Just be sure to consider the host or hostess’s preferences and taste.
Q: What if I’m on a tight budget?
A: There are many affordable and thoughtful gift options available, such as kitchen gadgets, gourmet food, and fine wine.