’tis the season for holiday parties, dinners, and get-togethers. I don’t know if it’s because we’re in the suburbs or what, but I feel like our social calendar is busier than ever. (And I say busy in a positive way, here!) We usually end up at a friend’s house at least once a week for something casual like watching a sporting event on TV or a double/triple date for dinner. With the holidays fast approaching (Thanksgiving is only a week and a half away), we’re going out even more!
I never walk in empty-handed but I definitely “read the room” so to speak to make sure I’m bringing something appropriate. Like with our friends who we swap houses every week for game nights, it’s super casual so we usually plan ahead and one couple orders or makes dinner and the other brings drinks and/or dessert. But if we’re heading to an official party, I’m more formal about it.
Because I love to bake, I usually bring baked goods. My mom’s chocolate chip cookie recipe is such a favorite that it’s usually requested and I love her zucchini bread too because it yields two loaves. (Gift one, keep one. Or bring one to serve, and one for the hosts’ family the next day) This year, I’ll probably whip up embroidered hand towels or cocktail napkins since I’m on a stitching kick. And you can’t go wrong with bringing wine. I learned something at a recent press event that if you’re bringing wine to give (not to be served during the party), make sure you fully wrap it so it’s clear that it’s a gift! And if you want something that’s fun and festive but non-alcoholic, we LOVE this Töst beverage– it’s delicious.
I’ve rounded up some more options if you want to do more of a gift-y gift! I also prefer to not wrap hostess gifts and just tie a big ribbon into a bow around whatever it is (bread loaves included) instead.
SKI LODGE HAND SOAP // HOLIDAY DIFFUSER // COOKBOOK // CHEESE KNIVES
COCKTAIL NAPKINS // BUTTER KEEPER // HOLIDAY CHOCOLATES
DIPPING OILS // MULLING SPICES // HOT CHOCOLATE & MARSHMALLOWS // VASE
NANTUCKET STROLL CANDLE // MATCH STRIKER // WINE TOTE
Shop the Guide
I love the idea of wrapping a wine. Thanks for sharing @carly
Your mom’s favorite cook book?
She has like every Martha strewart one from her early days and a Betty Crocker one that’s like an encyclopedia for classic recipes!
These are all such great hostess gift ideas and all different and unique too. Thanks so much for putting this together.
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
I love this! The wine tote especially!
This is such a good guide.. I love the Barefoot Contessa, ha!
xoxo,
Juliana Grace | http://www.julianagraceblogspace.com
I just love the idea of making homemade or handmade gifts this year! You’ve also gotten me on a crafty kick. I’ve made scarves in the past and done some water-color paintings for friends and family, but I think I’ll give embroidery a try too!
I am very interested in trying the Tost drink! Sometimes you just do not want to actually drink but still want to feel festive! Do you mix it with any juice or other mixer or add any fresh berries to it? It could definitely make an adorable non-alcoholic holiday cocktail 🙂
xx Libby