The Art of the Hostess Gift

DECEMBER 2014

In the next several weeks, most of us have at least one major holiday gathering to attend. And between fun cocktail soirees, ugly Christmas sweater parties, work receptions and family gatherings, many of us have more than a few. And that’s just for Christmas…then it’s time to bring on the New Year’s Eve bashes! When it comes to planning parties, we always say that it’s the details that make the party. And, as guests, we believe the very same thing. That’s why we believe in the power of a simple but stunning hostess gift. It will make your hostess’ night, and you’ll feel great knowing you’ve properly thanked her for throwing such a fabulous fête!

Today, we’ve put together some of our favorite hostess gifts. They’re the kinds of gifts that you’d give you your best friend, your neighbor, your sister or mother, those ladies in your life who throw the most stunning parties, who whip up a mean cocktail, and who are the most gracious of hosts, no matter who walks through their door. They are the do-it-all-with-a-smile, hostess with the most-ess, Martha Stewarts of our lives, and they deserve a hostess gift that’s a bit out of the ordinary this holiday season! Here are some of our favorite picks:

* Sugar Paper Print {in gold foil!}, $40, because she’s classy and fabulous, and you love her just as she is, with her heart of gold and million dollar smile. And who doesn’t love a bit of new artwork for their home?

* Martha McQuade Scarf, $30, because she has the best style, and this will go with everything she has, from being a wrap with cocktail dresses to dressing up a t-shirt and jeans for a run to the grocery store. Plus, it’s designed and hand-dyed by a local artist, so it tells a beautiful story.

* Sunday Suppers Olive Oil, $35 because she loves cooking and inviting people over to share in the experience, and a bottle so beautiful will look incredible sitting on her counter so it’s always close at hand.

* Kinfolk Magazine Subscription, $60, because she loves small gatherings all year long, not just around the holidays, and between the thoughtful articles and stunning photography, this publication will provide inspiration for those gatherings year-round.

* Air Plant + Faceted Ceramic Holder, $20, because she loves good design and because everyone needs a little more green in their lives—and this just happens to be the perfect combination of the two. And it’s super low maintenance, so it’s perfect if she–ahem–has a track record of killing plants. That, and it’s super tiny and adorable.

* Illume Balsam & Cedar Candle, $18, because who doesn’t love a candle that smells like the holidays and makes winter a little more cozy? Plus, it comes in a cute tin and is made by a wonderful local company! Win, win.

* Solveig Gin, $30, because she loves her gin tonics, the bottle is beautiful + will look good on her bar cart, and it makes so many fun holiday cocktails. Locally distilled, tt’s a charming, thoughtful upgrade from a bottle of wine!

What are some of your favorite hostess gifts to give? Attending any holiday parties this weekend? We hope they’re fabulous!