Hostess Gifts

In my life outside of Printz, I host a weekly radio show called the Weekly Dish on My Talk 107.1 FM in Minneapolis. One of the questions we get asked alot is "What should I bring as a host/hostess gift" so here are some ideas we shared on a local TV show called Showcase Minnesota on Kare 11. Enjoy.

http://www.mytalk1071.com/show_elements/link.php?lID=36168

Hostess Gift Ideas:
Wondering what to bring for a hostess/host gift for Thanksgiving? Here are some of my favorite ideas.

1. Get them something that they don’t have to do any work to enjoy. If you get flowers get the vase too.
2. Don’t expect them to serve anything you bring that day.
3. $20 or less for the big holiday meals - $10 or less for the other types of celebrations.
4. Think about getting something for them to enjoy the next day.
5. Get them something they would not buy for themselves
5. Feeling broke? No problem – do the dishes but say it in a card at the beginning of the night so the host can plan on you for help.

Here are some specific ideas:

POTTED PLANTS:A fragrant rosemary plant or a colorful mum in the fall or an elegant poinsettia in winter are always appropriate and ready to be delivered.

LOCAL TREASURES:
Try Dorothy Stainbrook's Heath Glenn Farms Jams and jellies or Lucilles Kitchen. Surdyks and Kowalski’s have great local product selections.

COCKTAIL or DESSERT NAPKINS:
There is a pack of napkins that is just right for every hostess. For close friends, consider the ones with comical slogans. There are also napkins with initials, hobbies or seasonal themes. People who like to entertain enjoy fun and unique napkins.

SPECIALTY COFFEES OR TEAS:
Flavored coffees or hot teas, like the health beneficial green or black teas are an appropriate hostess gift. Add some scones for the next mornings breakfast.

CHOCOLATES:
Who doesn’t love chocolates? Consider BT McElrath’s lovely seasonal chocolates or Truffles from Chocolate Celetse.

JAR CANDLES:
Jar candles come in a variety of colors and scents appropriate for every season and to please any host or hostess. A baker might enjoy Yankee Candle's cinnamon or anything that fills the house with pine sent is good too. If your hostess is eco-conscious, consider soy candles.

ALCOHOL:
Wine, Champagne and Cordials are always welcome gifts. Not sure if your host drinks? Consider a sparkling cider that everyone will love.