The hospitality of loved ones during the holiday season is something to truly be thankful for. Wherever your friends or family are gathering this year, a simple hostess gift is a lovely way to show appreciation for that special person who has opened their home to everyone in celebration at this magical time.
While holiday catalogs and an internet search or two may lead you to consider elaborate or over-the-top choices, here are eight simple gift ideas that are sure to please anyone.
Homemade Treats
Couple your favorite recipes with some beautiful packaging and deliver your hosts an edible treat to enjoy this holiday season. From the obvious collection of homemade cookies to a breakfast casserole, think of your hosts’ tastes and the nature of your stay when putting together their gift. The effort and thought that goes into a homemade gift is always treasured.Specialty Foods
A quality olive oil, a box of artisan chocolates, or a set of gourmet coffees would make an excellent gift for your host. Consider what you know about their personal tastes and take advantage of any gift wrapping services from the shop you patronize.A Plant or Flowers
A small houseplant or a beautiful bouquet of flowers is a classic and charming gift that any host would appreciate. When in doubt, this is always a winning choice.Handmade Items
If you’ve got creative talents, put them to work for your hosts. Whether you can knit, sew, paint, build, carve, design, or craft, make something unique for your host’s home.Candles
Candles warm a space and allow for lovely scents to enhance a home. Select a high quality candle or candle set and aim for fragrances that match the occasion or are somewhat neutral, like lavender, vanilla, or citrus.Holiday Decor
Someone who hosts others for the holidays likely spends time and effort on their home’s holiday decor. Help them by offering a tasteful item to add to their collection.Hand Soaps or Towels
Pair a quality hand soap with a decorative hand towel for a gift any host will enjoy. These are items that are frequently used and replaced and that exemplify the small details that can add beauty to one’s home.Beverage of Choice
Of course, there’s always the option to give the classic bottle of wine. If your hosts are wine enthusiasts, this may just be the perfect gift.Other options may include a hot cocoa basket with fixings (marshmallows, candy canes, and so on), a collection of teas, or champagne or other sparkling beverage in advance of the new year.
Before the holiday season gets into full swing, consider preparing your hostess gifts in advance.