11 Last-Minute Holiday Hostess Gifts
Updated: Nov. 18, 2019Forgot to grab something for your host? Don't sweat it—we've got you covered. Check out our best ideas for last-minute holiday hostess gifts.
Houdini Wine Opener
Forget about picking up a bottle of wine for the hostess. It’s an easy last-minute gift, but every other guest at the gathering will have the same idea! Instead, get the hostess something that will help her manage the large number of wine bottles she’ll have to open, like a fancy wine opener ($30) from Target.
A Good Candle
You can never have too many candles, especially if you’re a hostess who frequently entertains. Find a unique scent and pretty packaging that sets it apart. If you can stop by a local shop that sells handmade candles, go for those—otherwise, this highly-rated soy candle made by Lulu Candles ($15) will do the trick.
Taste of Home Cookbook
You can’t go wrong with gifting a cookbook from your friends here at Taste of Home. In this 5th edition binder ($26), you’ll find useful explain-it-all sections that guide you through cooking basics and party planning and everything in-between. Not to mention, there are over 1,000 tried-and-tested recipes from home cooks just like you. Learn more about our recipe testing process.
Hot Chocolate Kit
The hostess has spent all her time and energy planning an incredible evening—gift her something she can use the next day while she relaxes. The beauty with gifting a hot chocolate kit is that you can find a premade kit, like this one from Amazon ($30), or you can quickly make your own using a Mason jar, mini marshmallows and our best hot chocolate recipe.
Serving Platter
With lines like Magnolia Homes and Cravings by Chrissy Tiegen, Target has an expansive collection of gorgeous servingware—perfect for last-minute gifts for your hostess. Pick up an elegant platter, like this one that says “Thankful” ($20), that the hostess can use immediately or store for her next party.
A Happy Houseplant
Sure, flowers are an easy last-minute gift. But you can do one better! Get your hostess a plant that will last for more than four days, like this spider plant from Walmart ($6). You might also have good luck gifting a low-maintenance succulent like this.
Basil Plant
Basil is among the best herbs to grow indoors, so opt for a basil plant that your hostess can keep around for awhile. Head to your local nursery or Home Depot and pick up a potted basil plant your hostess will love—and don’t forget to get a stylish pot ($18) for her, too.
Sassy Oven Mitts
There are some really incredible oven mitts out there, most of which make great gifts for your hostess. Blue Q has a particularly great line of oven mitts ($13)—their sass make them incredible gifts for hostesses, but definitely read before you buy. (Some oven mitts are great choices for your friend, but may feature words that would make your mother-in-law blush.)
Artisanal Soaps
We love gifting soap—it smells great, everyone uses it and if you get handmade bars with cute labels, they double as home decor. If you’ve got a local craft store or farmers market nearby, see if you can find a bar or two to gift the hostess. Otherwise, this set from Amazon comes with six adorable bars ($15) ideal for just about any hostess.
Spoon Rest
Spoon rests can be among the most useful and beautiful items in any kitchen. Pick up something classy at Target or Walmart, like the Pioneer Woman’s spoon rest from Walmart ($8), which features ornate flowers. Find more hostess gift ideas, for when you’re planning ahead.
Cute Dish Towels
Your hostess may be wild, refined or relaxed—and the gift you grab should match her personality. Fortunately, dish towels come in every flavor, from hilarious to wholesome. Target has a large collection of towels, like this classy pair ($30), but you can also find something unique at TJ Maxx or Uncommon Goods.
