We all have a hostess in our circle that’s happy to gather the group, entertain friends and family and assemble a spread for any occasion. And while they make it look effortless, it really is quite the undertaking to organize a date, plan a menu, create a playlist and all of the other tasks that come along with hosting people in your home. Rather than show up empty-handed, it’s always best to come prepared with a token of your appreciation (like the Mark & Graham Round Cheese Board) for the hostess with the mostest. And since we know a thing or two about gift-giving, we can assure you these are the very best hostess gifts they’ll be excited to use party after party.
From sweet treats that are under $20 to personalized party essentials, read on to shop our favorite hostess gift ideas that serve as thoughtful tokens of gratitude. Because sure, you can swing by your local wine shop on the way there, but if you really want to get creative, we have just what the hostess ordered.
Perfect for the host with a sweet tooth, this beautifully decorated box of chocolates by Compartés is almost too pretty to eat—almost. Handcrafted in Los Angeles, it features five ganache bonbon truffles that are mini works of art. We’ll leave it up to the host to decide if they’ll be sharing the good stuff with guests.
A Set Of Vintage-Inspired Glasses
Estelle Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glass Set
Having an extra set of wine glasses on hand is always a good idea. This stemless hand-blown set from Estelle Colored Glass comes in a stunning array of seven shades, including blush pink and mint green, so you can choose the color that best suits the host (or their décor).
A Plant To Brighten Up Their Space
The Sill Monstera Deliciosa
Whether or not your hostess has a green thumb, help them bring a little greenery into their home with this classic Monstera Deliciosa, potted in a modern ceramic planter. Just note that this indoor plant thrives in bright indirect and medium light, so it should be placed in a room with a lot of natural light.
A Tool Set For The Aspiring Mixologist
Williams Sonoma Classic Bar Tools Set
If the hostess is known to love a good cocktail, this professional-quality bar set is a great option. There are four polished finishes to choose from, and each stainless steel set comes with a shaker, strainer, bar spoon and double-sided jigger. The best part? The tools can go right in the dishwasher when the party is over.
An Alfresco-Inspired Candle
Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle
A candle may feel like a predictable hostess gift, but Flamingo Estate’s styles are anything but ordinary. Choose from soothing sage, rich rosemary or of-the-moment heirloom tomato, which smells just like the juicy summer staple.
An Eye-Popping Oven Mitt
Dusen Dusen Striped Oven Mitt
If the host takes pride in whipping up new dishes, a beautiful oven mitt hung by the stove with care is the ultimate piece of kitchen décor. This quilted style by Dusen Dusen comes in three delicious colors that mix bright and earthy tones in a way that’s just chef’s kiss.
A Set Of French Steak Knives They’ll Have Forever
Opinel Bon Appétit Steak Knives (Set Of 4)
Famed French brand Opinel has been crafting knives since their founding in 1890, so it’s safe to say they’ve perfected the form. This set of steak knives features finely sharpened non-serated blades and olive-wood handles in some truly fun colors. I regularly use them, so I can vouch that they arrive in gift-ready packaging, cut incredibly well and wash like a dream—yes, even with wood handles.
A Refreshing And Fragrant Duo
Aēsop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash & Hand Balm Duet
This luxurious hand wash and hand balm duo by Aēsop is a wonderful way to thank (and pamper) the hostess. The refreshing scent has notes of citrus, rosemary and cedar and will soothe and hydrate the host’s hands after guests have departed.
A Special Mug For When The Party Is Over
East Fork Pottery The Mug
Everyone deserves a special mug, especially the coffee lover that will savor a steaming cup of joe the morning after they pull off their best event yet. Carefully crafted in Asheville, North Carolina by the folks at East Fork pottery, this 12-ounce beauty feels great in the hand and comes in a variety of core and seasonal colors. You can also upgrade to a four-pack if you’d like to make it a set.
Best Personalized Hostess Gifts
An Elegant Cheese Board That Can Be Customized
Mark & Graham Round Cheese Board
With its elegant, modern look, this wood and marble cheese board by Mark & Graham is sure to be a hit with the hostess who loves charcuterie. For a small fee, you can add a name, meaningful word or initials to the board—there are more than 25 styles to choose from.
A Personalized Acrylic Calendar
Artifact Uprising Floating Acrylic Wall Calendar
Someone who constantly hosts friends and family needs something to keep track of their upcoming events. This chic acrylic calendar by Artifact Uprising is the perfect item to keep even the busiest host on schedule. And if you love a special touch, it can be personalized with a name on top and your choice of color and hardware.
A Showstopping Ice Bucket
Mark & Graham Martinique Ice Bucket
Whether you’re taking the party outside or you’re dressing a bar cart with all the essentials, an ice bucket is just what every hostess needs to keep the drinks flowing. And one with this much personality (and an opportunity for a custom monogram) is the ultimate gift to give and to receive.
An Elegant Notebook With Matching Notecards
Papier Wildflower Notebook And Notecard Set
This chic notebook and notecard set is perfect for the host who likes to write everything down. The hardcover notebook is decorated with vibrant wildflowers, and the lined pages provide plenty of space to jot down events and memories—or even use it as a fancy guestbook. Meanwhile, the notecards can be used for thoughtful correspondence or dinner party invites. You can also personalize the set with the host’s name to really show your appreciation.
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