Choosing a Gift for the Host

H

ave you been invited to a dinner party or a holiday event at a co-worker's home? It’s customary to show your gratitude by bringing a gift for the host or hostess. These small gifts are not usually expensive or extravagant. Something around $20 is perfect.

These gifts can range from useful items (guest soaps or candles) to a favourite bottle of wine, and everything in-between. It is usually something the hosts would use in the course of entertaining, however don’t expect the hosts to serve or use the hostess gift, including wine, at the party — wine may have already been chosen for the meal. The gift is theirs to enjoy later if they wish, or share with others (like a box of chocolates).

Hostess gifts are usually not opened immediately (unless you are the only invited guest) so as not to embarrass any other guests who didn’t bring a gift.

All the following are from Stokes Canada:

Tassel glass markers Ever lose track of your glass at a party? Well, with this set of 6 tassel glass markers it will not occur again. The various tassles are colored for easy recognition and add a little pizzaz to the gathering. They can be used on many types of glasses. stokesstores.com

Laguiole 4-Pc spreaders set When your party is a self-serve buffet it's great to have the Laguiole 4-Pc spreader set — perfect for serving paté and cheese. The knives are made of stainless steel and marble and can be hand washed. Place them in their beautiful wooden box when you're through. stokesstores.com

Square slate coasters

Going back to school? Not really, but your guests can write little messages in chalk on this original set of 4 all-black slate coasters. A small wood-like tray completes the set. stokesstores.com

thinkkitchen Island apron

Go ahead make a mess, this apron is machine washable and has adjustable straps and a pocket. The colorful tropical pattern is a reminder that everyday is summer somewhere. stokesstores.com

Don’t forget!

Remember to send a thank you note (these days even an email is OK) as soon as possible — 48 hours is the maximum time you should wait. Even if you brought a gift, a short note letting the host(s) know that you enjoyed the get-together is proper etiquette.