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45 Host and Hostess Gifts (That Aren’t a Bottle of Wine)
Updated May 23, 2024
If there’s one thing I learned from my mother, hosting takes some serious skill and patience. And no matter how modern some time-honored traditions become, hostess gifts never go out of style. Pulling off a crowd-pleasing gathering from start to finish is no easy feat, which is why nothing says “thank you” more than a little something special for the host or hostess.
Still, it can be hard to know exactly what to gift the host or hostess. Not to mention there are different “levels” of gifting depending on what type of gathering they’re throwing. For a summer barbecue bash or festive holiday party, small-scale gifts like a honey sampler or artisan hand soaps are best. Whereas a weekend-long trip to the host’s lake house may call for something bigger like personalized hand towels.
To simplify your shopping, we found the best hostess gifts for every budget and occasion. And no, they’re not a bottle of vino. Whether they’re hosting a wine-tasting party or bridal shower, these hostess gifts ensure you never show up empty-handed.
For the Traditionalist
Mrs. Fields Pop-Up Fruit Bowl
Beautifully-packaged fruit is a time-honored gift for a hostess. This pop-up fruit bowl offers a nice twist on the traditional option with a reusable wooden bowl that arrives in a box with carefully packed oranges, apples, pears, lemons, limes, mandarins and kiwis.
“As someone who has bought many flower arrangements and fruit bouquets online, I think the price tag on this pop-up bowl is totally fair,” says Senior Shopping Editor Caitlyn Fitzpatrick. “The fruit is high quality and the adorable apple-shaped bowl will last for many refills to come.” Caitlyn received her own bowl and still uses it to hold her weekly fruit haul.
For the Charcuterie Crew
Boarderie Charcuterie Board
If they love hosting, you know they love charcuterie. Send them a gourmet Boarderie gift piled high with artisanal cheeses, cured meats and other accouterments. It arrives fully assembled — no cutting, chopping or arranging required.
“My favorite part of the Boarderie board was the experiential aspect,” says Editor Annamarie Higley in her review of the board. “A few friends and I had a lovely time huddling around the board, trying each item, discussing the flavors and swapping opinions, sipping wine intermittently.”
For the Bar Cart Buff
Happy Hour at Home Set
When you’re shopping for a cocktail lover, you can’t go wrong with the Happy Hour at Home gourmet cocktail kit from Here Here Market. Bolster their bar cart with a jar of cocktail cherries and a glossy gold serving spoon from Cellar Door Preserves, Good ‘Old Fashioned’ Chicago cocktail syrup, strawberry lavender rosemary tulsi tea from Enroot, Sweet Haven Tonics ginger lime and peppercorn concentrate and the Disco Citrus variety pack by Earl Giles Bottling Co. This cocktail kit also comes with an optional upgrade that includes a fancy bar spoon and jigger .
For the Charcuterie Connoisseur
Personalized Serving Board
For over-the-top events that entail long hours of planning, we lean on personalized hostess gifts, like this gorgeous wood and marble serving board. Made from Acacia wood, the board is complete with marble accents and three small bowls. Customize it with their initials or last name for an extra thoughtful cheese board gift idea. It’ll become an heirloom piece in no time!
For the Flower Arranger
Dried Flower Bouquet Diffuser
A seasonal flower arrangement and diffuser all in one? Check! This is one of the best hostess gifts because they get two surprises in one. This dried flower bouquet diffuser sits pretty on any tabletop or makes a beautiful guest bathroom addition. Whatever they choose, it blooms with scents of lavender and eucalyptus all year long. Have you seen these gifts for crafters?
For the Every Host
Infused Olive Oil Set
Whether you’re headed to a holiday party or baby shower, gift sets like this infused olive oil collection are just the treat to have in your back pocket. It’s a simple yet thoughtful way to show your thanks without overdoing it. I mean, who doesn’t like the sound of blood orange-infused olive oil?
For the Home Cook
Engraved Wooden Spoon
If you want to impress the host or hostess, personalized gifts like this engraved wooden spoon are the way to their heart. Choose from a custom spoon, spatula or spork for a show-stopping gift. Have you checked out these other gifts for foodies?
For the Brunch Boss
Mimosa Sugar Cubes
Mimosas on the fly? Say no more. These minute mimosa sugar cubes turn any glass of bubbly into a mimosa or bellini in 60 seconds—no fruit juice necessary. They pair perfectly with your next at-home brunch or wine-tasting party.
For the Sentimentalist
Let's Toast Candle
What better way to show your appreciation for a dinner party or gathering than with a candle that says it all? This natural soy-wax candle boasts fruity notes of mandarin, grapefruit, orange, apple, pineapple and a hint of champagne grapes to fill their home with gratitude. We love a candle collection that smells as good as it looks.
For the Homegrown Foodie
State Spoon Rest
A spoon rest is an essential tool that doesn’t just serve a purpose, it adds personality to the kitchen. Practical and pretty, this state spoon rest reminds them of their roots while adding some character to the counter. They’ll think of you every time they cook!
For Under $25
Bath Soak
If you don’t have a personal relationship with the host or need something thoughtful yet simple, this bath salt soak is a welcome gift to take the edge off. Inspired by the calming qualities of the sea, one soak in these mineral-rich salts helps melt away stress and inflammation.
For the Experimental Cook
Gourmet Salad Dressing Spice Kit
The host isn’t the only best-dressed guest at the party—now her salad is, too, thanks to this gourmet salad dressing spice kit. Complete with an adorable glass bottle and spices for whipping up chili lime vinaigrette, lemon poppy vinaigrette and sesame ginger vinaigrette, the host will love experimenting with new dressings and marinades to show off at their next dinner party.
For the Jack-of-All Hosts
Statement Home Tray
For the do-it-all entertainer, we can’t think of a more appropriate hostess gift than this editor-loved statement tray. Not only does it do triple duty as a catch-all, serving platter and decorative statement, but it’s also super customizable thanks to interchangeable inserts. Simply pick the tray that matches the host’s aesthetic and an insert to fit the vibe, like a marble pattern for a chic bar cart setup or a football-themed insert for tailgate season.
As Shopping Editor, Annamarie Higley, puts it, “The Jack of all Trays tray is my go-to one-size-fits-all gift for so many people in my life.” Bonus: Once the host has the tray, you can keep on gifting a new insert every time a big party is on the horizon.
For the Holiday Enthusiast
Bat Wine Opener
Whether they’re obsessed with spooky season or holidays at large, this bat wine opener is guaranteed to put a smile on their face. Plus, it doubles as a bottle opener. We tried the bat wine bottle opener, and trust us, every bottle of vino needs this trusty sidekick.
For Under $15
Hand Cream
Because their hands are like their paintbrush, this mini hand cream keeps the entertainer’s hands feeling their best. It’s an affordable hostess gift to always have in your back pocket, especially when you don’t want to show up empty-handed during the holiday party season. If Tocca’s hand cream smells anything like their perfume (which is my all-time favorite) the host will thank you long after the party’s over.
For the Queen of Luxury
Agate Coaster
Practical and polished, these gilded agate coasters are oh-so divine. Available in six stunning colors, every coaster boasts a different cut and glimmer, so every hostess gets a gift as unique as they are. More importantly, they’ll never have to worry about their furniture falling victim to guests’ drinks again.
For the Gardener
Succulent Pillow
Instead of gifting a houseplant, spring for this succulent pillow. It brings the outdoors in while serving as a fun conversation starter when guests are around (not to mention it’s incredibly soft for lounging during the host’s downtime). It’s the most unique throw pillow we’ve ever seen!
For the At-Home Barista
Coffee and Chocolate Tasting Box
Few things go together as well as coffee and chocolate. Spring for an artisan-tasting experience with Bean Box’s coffee and chocolate gift box. Though I haven’t tried this exact set, I’ve been gifted Bean Box coffee more times than I can count. Trust me, giftees are in for a real treat as they learn about independent roasters, tasting notes and coffee pairings. Plus, who doesn’t like a little chocolate with their morning (or afternoon) cup?
For the Bread Baker
Bread Warming Blanket
Hostess gifts for bread bakers? Check! Affordable and nothing short of thoughtful, this bread-warming blanket keeps their creation at just the right temperature to ensure every dinner party guest receives a slice of warm homemade bread. It says, “I loaf you,” all on its own.
For the Decorator
Candle Warmer Lamp
Everyone needs our favorite candle warmer lamp—and the host is no exception. Boasting a beautiful glass shade, the candle lamp emits a cozy glow as it gently melts wax. And yes, you’ll still experience the same scent strength as if it were lit with a flame. There’s a lot to love about this beauty, but my favorite feature is how much longer expensive candles last. File it under affordable yet impressive hostess gifts.
For the Chic Coffee Drinker
Bistro Tile Monogram Mug
The beauty of hostess gifts is that they’re not really an expectation these days, and they can be as simple or extravagant as you please, depending on how well you know the entertainer. Whether you’re fast friends or meeting for the first time at a holiday party, chic kitchen staples like this bistro tile monogram mug are always a welcome gift. I mean, who doesn’t like collecting cute coffee mugs?
For the Preppy Entertainer
Personalized Hand Towels
If the hostess in your life is obsessed with making their home feel like a luxe hotel, these plush hand towels are such a treat for their powder room. Personalize them with the hostess’ last name or initials and match them with the color palette of their guest bathroom. They’re a treat for the hostess and their guests!
For the Candle Queen
Candle Accessories
Keep the host or hostess’ best candle collection up to par by gifting them this three-in-one candle care set. Complete with a wick trimmer, candle snuffer and wick dipper, the champagne gold colorway is classy and practical enough to display on their coffee table. Speaking of, this candle warmer lamp is also a welcome addition to their home.
For the Foodie
Finishing Salts
The secret to a tasty homemade meal? Finishing salts, of course! Think Bolivian rose salt, black lava salt and so. much. more. Every foodie from grill masters to beginner home cooks will appreciate the extra spice in their life. Pro tip: You can gift the entire eight-piece set or gift two at a time for a hostess gift that keeps on giving.
For the Colorful Chef
Pretty Kitchen Towels
In the kitchen, you can always use more towels. These Anthropologie kitchen towels are perfect for the host or hostess who loves to experiment with color. They brighten up the kitchen no matter the season.
For the Bartender
Personalized Rimming Board
Though an all-expenses paid trip to Margaritaville is ideal, hosts and margarita lovers alike will still appreciate this affordable personalized bamboo board. It’s compact yet thoughtful, and it makes rimming those margarita glasses with salt oh-so-easy. These alcohol gifts are always fun too.
For the Snacker
Flower Bowls
Take their hosting game to a whole new level with these fun snack bowls. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe, they’re just the right size for serving with a charcuterie board, a chocolate board or even a taco board.
For the Tea Drinker
Colonial Black Tea
Gift a little history by the way of tea from the colonial era. “For the tea-lover or history buff in your life, I love gifting unique items from local shops I encounter on my travels, like this Colonial Black tea gift set,” says Senior Shopping Editor, Daria Smith. “My grandma is a big fan of these teas from Charleston, South Carolina!”
Bonus: The tea tins are so adorable they can be left on the kitchen counter for all to admire.
For the Charmer
Drink Markers
These fun drink charms make it easy for every party guest to claim their beverage. With charming identifiers like a mermaid or starfish, these beach-themed markers add some personality to everyone’s wine glass. Heck, these charms are so cute, the host in your life will put ’em to use with or without a party.
For the Plant Parent
Mini Succulent Garden
Plants and flowers are always welcome hostess gifts, and this mini succulent garden is the sweetest little find to show your thanks. The succulents arrive beautifully arranged inside a ceramic pot. All you have to do is show up with it to your next gathering.
For the Classic Entertainer
Taste of Home Farmhouse Entertaining Cookbook
Gift some fun yet incredibly helpful inspiration with the Taste of Home Farmhouse Entertaining Cookbook. With chapters on summer parties, Christmas Eve appetizers, kids’ Thanksgiving tables and so much more, all of their hosting woes are covered in this essential guide. They’ll share the gift of farmhouse meals in no time.
For the Homebody
Cozy Throw Blanket
Looking for stellar hostess gifts to wow your loved one? Two words: Cozy gifts. Keep their heart warm all season long thanks to this stunning woven throw blanket any homebody would be lucky to own. Bonus: It’s perfect as a housewarming gift too.
For the Mixologist
Flavored Simple Syrup Set
For the host who’s also a part-time mixologist at their parties, gift these flavored simple syrups. With flavors like cherry almond, pear rosemary, cucumber habanero and grapefruit basil, they encourage playful experimentation and top-notch sips. They also pair well with our favorite glassware for mixed drinks.
For the Recipe Keeper
Custom Recipe Art
While most hostess gifts are meant to serve as little tokens of your appreciation, sometimes you want to go the extra mile for bigger occasions like weekend getaways or holiday parties—especially if you know the host or hostess personally. If they have a beloved family recipe or are famous for their chocolate chip cookies, handwritten recipe gifts like this custom illustrated recipe art is a beautiful way to show your love and thanks. You’ll honor their hosting skills and cherish tradition.
For the Sweets-Fanatic
Fresh Cookies
Who wouldn’t want to be greeted with a freshly baked treat? Wow them with these New York-famous chocolate chip cookies from Levain Bakery. They’ll arrive on their doorstep ready to gobble up. Read how much we love them in our Levain cookies review.
For Last-Minute Hostess Gift
Scented Soap Petals
After a long day (or season) of entertaining, every host or hostess needs a little “me time.” These beautiful soap petals turn their bathroom into their very own spa, whether they use them in the bathtub or as hand soap. It’s like gifting a bouquet and a spa day all in one—and for under $25!
For the Game-Lover
Conversation Card Game
When new guests are around or the conversation gets dull, this card game is here to help. We’re Not Really Strangers is a conversational card game that builds connection. Prompts like “What does my phone wallpaper tell you about me,” or “What’s been your favorite memory this past year,” lighten the mood and deepen guests’ understanding of each other.
Though it’s recommended to play with four to six people, it’s ideal for large gatherings too. I bring it to family holiday parties (they can get awkward real quick), and everyone walks away feeling refreshed and entertained after playing together. We’ll raise a glass to that!
For Under $50
Checkered Cheese Knives
Elevate their charcuterie game with these elegant, checkered cheese knives. Take it to the next level by pairing them with your loved one’s favorite fromage!
For the Queen of Amazon
Honey Drizzler
Collecting unique Amazon gadgets is an art form, and any skilled collector needs to add this adorable honey jar to their compilation. It’s like a maple syrup dispenser but for honey.
We tried the honey drizzler and can confirm it’s the perfect vessel for displaying and pouring honey without all the mess. Not only does it make a wonderful gift for bakers, but it’s also the perfect complement to the host or hostess’ tea collection too.
For the Aromatherapy-Obsessed
Cheerful Essential Oil
We all have an entertainer in our lives who’s obsessed with essential oils. For me, it’s my mom, and adding another essential oil diffuser blend to their collection is a surefire way to put a smile on their face. I can’t think of a more appropriate scent than this cheerful blend that’s quite literally described as “sunshine in a bottle.” With notes of lime, bergamot and grapefruit, it sets the mood for the whole evening.
For the Dinner Party Host
Gourmet Pesto
Just in time for your next dinner party, this gourmet pesto gift set featuring fresh basil pesto, olivada olive pesto, sun-dried tomato pesto, sweet pepper pesto, artichoke lemon pesto and walnut and sage pesto is guaranteed to wow your host. Made with love, each small batch pesto boasts hand-picked basil leaves and wholesome ingredients that’ll leave the host—and guests—warm and fuzzy on the inside.
For the Edgy Book Worm
Tequila Mockingbird Cocktail Book
For under $20, the Tequila Mockingbird: Cocktails with a Literary Twist recipe book is the best cocktail book money can buy that’s guaranteed to light up any literature lover’s face. From “Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margarita” to “Romeo and Julep,” they’ll be delighted with cocktails that pair well with their favorite classic novels. And if they don’t drink alcohol, these mocktail books are equally wonderful.
For the Cottagecore Homebody
Pressed Flower Taper Candle
Some candles just aren’t meant for melting, and this taper candle hand-dipped in real herbs and thyme is no exception. For decorators who are obsessed with all things cottagecore, this affordable hostess gift fits right at home with the rest of their whimsical home finds. Pro tip: One order includes a set of two candles.
For the Spa-Lover
Artisanal Soaps
When it comes to gifts for hostess parties, we love gifting soap—it smells fantastic, everyone uses it and if you get handmade bars with cute labels, they double as home decor. This soap set from Amazon comes with six chic bars ideal for just about any host or hostess.
For the Perfumist
Capri Blue Volcano Room Spray
If there’s one thing hosts are always trying to perfect, it’s creating a welcoming, long-lasting signature scent throughout their home. And there’s no aroma more timeless than the Capri Blue Volcano room spray. With notes of orchid, jasmine and gardenia, it makes any room bloom with the smell of fresh-cut flowers.
Originally Published: December 09, 2021
