Struggling for some gift ideas? Keep it simple. Hostess gifts do not need to be extravagant or unique. Generally, expect to spend between $20 and $30 for a hostess gift.

Here are some of the top gifts to consider:

• Fine Wine or other spirits
• Chocolates or candy
• Seasonal ornament or a CD of Festive Music
• Small plant in an attractive pot
• Flower Arrangement (in a vase)
• Soaps or Candles
• Homemade Baking or Preserves
• Books based on your hosts preferred reading genre
• Kitchen ideas like cocktail napkins, a wine aerator, wine charms or a cast iron teapot
• Gift Cards

Offering Your Gift

When’s the right time to give your gift?

• Offer your gift as soon as you arrive.
• Be gracious and do not create a fuss.  If it is a larger event, your hosts may have to acknowledge your thoughtfulness, but not have the time to express their full fondness of it.
• Do not expect your gift to be served or put on display that evening and do not take it back at the end of the event.
• If the hostess is busy with other guests, leave the gift in an area that is out of the way and indicate to your host the location of your small gift.