The Art and Etiquette of Hostess Gifts:

How to Choose and Present the Perfect Gift for an Extended Stay.

In my previous article we explored the art of selecting the perfect gift for your hostess when attending a luncheon, dinner, or cocktail party. Now, let’s elevate our gifting game.

When you are invited to stay at a friend’s home, aboard their yacht, or other accommodation, a more substantial gift is certainly in order.

While the core principles from my last piece still apply to overnight stays, there are subtle nuances to consider.

Join me as I delve into these finer points and share my top 10 hostess gift ideas that are sure to impress:

Tip 1: When to present your gift: As an overnight guest, you have a few options for presenting your gift. You can offer it upon arrival, choose something during your stay (you may be inspired after being together for a day or two) or send a gift as soon as possible after you leave. If you choose something during your stay, it might be an item you noticed your hostess admiring or something from her favorite shop at your destination. In this case, try to present the gift during your stay to make it even more special.

Tip 2: Include a handwritten note: A handwritten note adds a personal touch, even if you are part of a small group. Your hostess may choose to open gifts privately, and a note helps her remember who gave the gift, allowing her to acknowledge your thoughtfulness.

Tip 3: Select your gift thoughtfully. Consider your hostess’s personality and preferences when choosing a gift; and if your gift is inspired by your time together it becomes even more personal and memorable.

Nuances of choosing a hostess gift as an overnight guest:

A Bouquet of Flowers: When sending flowers, it is best to do so after your visit. Consider a multi-stemmed orchid in a keepsake decorative vessel that complements your hostess’s décor. Orchids last longer than cut flowers, and a lovely vessel can be reused reminding your hostess of your thoughtfulness and friendship.

A Bottle of Wine: A vintage wine, champagne, or spirit is an excellent choice for longer visits. You might also include accessories, such as a wine opener, vintage wine coaster, cooler, or cocktail shaker.

Food: A beautifully curated gift basket full of foods your hostess will love is a wonderfully thoughtful gift for a few nights’ stay. Consider the hostess’s dietary preferences and culinary skills. Gourmet items, such as cheese, chocolate, artisanal jams, imported teas, or coffee, are indulgent and sophisticated. Pair these with accessories that can be kept after the food is enjoyed—beautiful cheese boards, knives, jam jars, a vintage pepper mill or a new cookbook would all complement a bountiful basket of goodies.

Scented Candles: As mentioned in my last article, scented candles are often discarded or regifted. It may be best to avoid them unless you know your hostess loves a particular scent or brand. If you do choose a candle, ensure it is something that will enhance her collection. For example, a friend who adores Fornasetti Candles and loves the Frutto Proibito fragrance would appreciate this gift. It is a fragrance she loves and a delightful vessel that can be reused once the candle is finished.

Your hostess will certainly appreciate a practical, well-thought-out gift, and one that will be a delight to use for many parties, dinners, and occasions in the future.

1.     Buccellati Daisy flower Dish – Collectible and perfect for placing chocolates or mints on the dining table, or to be used bedside to hold your earbuds. Depending on the length of your stay, consider a pair or more.

2.     Artel’s Salt and Pepper Set – It is so fun to place a distinct set at each guest place setting, adding to the table décor.

3.     Moser’s Pebbles Votives – They can be mixed and matched, collected for table or bath. The colors are lush and beautiful! Be sure to include a votive.

4.     Kim Seybert Napkin Rings – Always in style and perfect for coastal living. Pair them with napkin sets or placemats.

5.     English silver wine coaster – For the wine lover!

6.     Cheese or Baguette Boards – These boards are so useful for serving and creating interesting buffet displays. A wonderful addition to a food-lovers gift basket.

7.     Aerin’s 3-bowl server – Perfect for intimate cocktail parties!

8.     Aerin’s Victoria Cocktail Napkins – These uniquely shaped pure linen napkins come in a variety of colors. The epitome of elegant entertaining.

9.     Antique French Compotier – These can be found at vintage shops, including our own Church Mouse in Palm Beach. Fill them with candies, chocolates, or small, artisanal hand soaps for a unique, and thoughtful gift.

10. Coasters – Every hostess will appreciate a fresh set or two, and a lovely addition to add to a basket, or pair a few sets with a bottle of wine.

Giving a hostess gift is a way to show your gratitude, appreciation, and respect for your hostess and their hospitality.

However, it also requires careful consideration, preparation, and discretion. Let these tips guide you in choosing and presenting the perfect hostess gift for any occasion. I hope this article has inspired you to master the art and etiquette of gift-giving.

Remember, no matter the occasion, a thoughtful gift is always appreciated by every hostess. As American writer Charles Dudley Warner wisely said:

“The excellence of a gift lies in its appropriateness rather than its value.”

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