Hostess Gift Ideas

Somehow in all our moves, I've never written a post on hostess gift ideas (can I blame it on moving brain??). But thanks to the suggestion of one of my blogging besties (post ideas are just one of the many perks of have good blogging friends) I'm finally getting around to sharing a few ideas. Of course, the old standby of grabbing a bottle of wine is easy (and totally acceptable), but it's not the most creative of gifts, so I came up with a few ideas that are just as easy, but slightly more thoughtful and personal. With plenty of summer events, barbecues, and get togethers on the horizon, this list of hostess gift ideas is sure to come in handy.

1. S'mores Kit// Graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate, roasting sticks; if you want to get extra fancy use a specialized chocolate and homemade or flavored marshmallows.

2. A Mini Herb Garden// For a host that enjoys cooking, a mini herb garden filled with things such as thyme, rosemary, basil, parsley or chives, is the perfect addition to their kitchen. Anytime they want to season a dish, the herbs are right there. Go the extra mile and include plant markers.

3. Relaxation Package- Hosting an event can be stressful, so help your host unwind with a few relaxing goodies- a cozy pair of socks, a sweet smelling candle, bubble bath soap, some tea, their favorite magazine, and a sprig of lavender. Also, some wine wouldn't hurt!

4. Muffins & Jam- Pack a towel-lined basket with muffins (homemade or from a local bakery) and add a jar of jam (and coffee or tea)...your hostess will appreciate not having to cook up breakfast the morning after entertaining guests.

5. Local Fare// If you're traveling some distance to see your hostess, bring an item that is unique to where you live, i.e. a locally brewed beer, or chocolates handmade in a small shop around the corner.

6. Homemade Items// Of course, in my opinion, homemade items are always the best. Whether it's homemade caramels, seasoning mix, jam or even pickles, your host will really appreciate the extra mile you took to make them something special.

7. Pasta Dinner Kit// A bag of pasta, a basil plant, a head of garlic, a handful of fresh tomatoes (or a jar of your favorite sauce), and a chunk of parm, make it easy for your host to throw a quick and relaxing dinner together the next night. Bonus points for fresh bread, a bottle of wine, and the red and white checkered table cloth.