Guest Picks: Holiday Gifts for the Hosts
Think outside the bottle of wine with host gifts like flavored oils, clever espresso cups and tequila 'glasses' made of salt
We’re all gearing up for this social time of the year, and being prepared will make each outing just a little more fun. One thing I like to do is shop ahead for host gifts. They’re my way of saying thanks, and though a bottle of wine is always a good idea, a special treat for your hosts helps mark the occasion long after the last drop of wine is gone. — Sheila from Sheila Zeller Interiors
Black Salvaged Slate Coasters by Simply Nu
Coasters are handy for any gathering, and I love that these are made from salvaged slate. They add a hint of midcentury flair and are weighty enough to stay in place.
Pinch Bowls
Surprise your hosts with a sparkly pinch bowl filled with treats. The memories from the evening will live on long after it has been emptied.
If you know your hosts are peanut friendly, these chocolate-covered ones are a great twist on the usual box of chocolates.
Pinecone Bottle Stopper
Mark your holiday get-together with this pinecone stopper. It’s a true symbol of the season that your hosts are sure to remember.
Red Wine Flight Tasting Set
A flight tasting set — what fun! And how perfect is it for an evening with friends?
West Coast Beach Stone Wine Charms by Pebble Creations
Wine charms are almost as necessary as the glasses themselves when it comes to entertaining. I like these West Coast beach stone charms because you can be guaranteed that no two are alike, making it easy to add more to a set.
I think flavored oils are the secret ingredient to almost any appetizer. Gift these three and see if your lucky host agrees.
Cheese Storage Papers
These cheese papers are a great gift idea, along with a delicious cheese or two. At the end of the evening, your hosts will be thanking you for thinking ahead.
Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses
This is a unique gift idea. Believe it or not, these shot “glasses” are made of salt! If treated with care as described, they won’t dissolve before your eyes. What a neat way to say thanks in a way that’s slightly different.
Ornamented Cutting Board Set
I love the package deal of this gift set. Arriving in style and all ready to go doesn’t get any easier.
This black truffle and sea salt combination is bound to create a buzz. Not only is it a decadent mix, but it is sure to ripple the room as a topic of conversation. I can’t think of a better way to say thank you than gifting this Italian seasoning.
Paula Deen Signature Pantryware Round Salt Box
What a beautiful dish for gourmet salts — it’s something to treasure for years to come. I like the divider inside, which lets you offer two tastes at once.
Large Amalie Etched Mercury Glass Hurricane Candleholder
You can never go wrong with the flicker of light through mercury glass. This candleholder is a lovely touch for any gathering and is sure to add ambient warmth.
Snuffer Set
Candles are the backdrop for every gathering, so a candle snuffer is a must. I love the elegant lines of this one. I can see its being a beautiful addition to a vignette or simply standing on its own on a mantel.
Espresso and Coffee Set by Designer Fellina Sok-Cham
This espresso set, designed by Fellina Sok-Cham, is an amazing host gift for that very special event. I am in awe of this design; it’s not only aesthetically stunning, but superfunctional too. I might want to keep this for myself, but I know I would be proud to give it, too.
Laura Zindel Slide Boxes
I love these tin slide boxes. The artistry is elegant, and the boxes can be filled with whatever your host chooses. I think they would make a great gift and a beautiful statement in a home.
Numi Flowering Tea Gift Set
This Numi flowering tea set is a beautiful gift option. The bamboo box becomes a keepsake, and the clear teapot becomes part of a visual display. Plus, you can watch the tea buds blossom as they hit the hot water. What a nice way to end the day!
Fabric-Wrapped Soaps
These all-natural handmade soaps are beautifully wrapped in fabric. I love the idea of dashing out the door with these gifts in tow, already all wrapped up and ready to go.
Unzipped Glass Zipper Bag
Add whatever you like to this handblown glass “bag” to give it your own zip! Charming and fun, it’s sure to be a hit for the night.
Mason Jar Shot Glasses
How much fun are these mason jar shot glasses? They would set the tone for a casual evening with friends and are the perfect gift to help get the party started, especially when paired with a bottled spirit.
Next: More fabulously thoughtful host gifts
Next: More fabulously thoughtful host gifts