With so many upcoming Holiday gatherings, I took a moment to put together some go-to host or hostess gifts. This time of year is so busy, that many of us (read: me) end up stopping at whatever the closest open store is on the way to the actual party. And I find myself running around trying to find a nice gift that says, "Thank you so much for inviting me to your home and being such a great friend" and NOT "I just stopped at CVS to get you an after-thought cheap bottle of wine".
So here are my top 10 host / hostess gifts that are thoughtful, unique and useful! There is something for everyone and at every price point – so ditch the standard bottle of wine this year and set yourself apart from the crowd.
1. Personalized Zip Code pillow by Alexandra Ferguson, $75 Found Objects
Other styles are available – including AWESOME, DETROIT, and MANCAVE so you can find the perfect pillow for your host/hostess's personality.
2. DL & Co Maison Candle Gift Set, $38
You can never go wrong with beautiful candles – these come in pretty, reusable glass containers. The sophisticated black box is ready for a bow, and you're all set.
3. Just a Note notepad on a clipboard $12
This is a big step up from your typical notepad – the clipboard is reusable and handy to clip reciepts or post-its right where you need them.
4. Caldrea Hand Soap & Lotion Set with Stainless Steel Caddy, $25
This simple and stylish gift is a nice little indulgence next to anyones kitchen sink. Caldrea products are free from Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Artificial Colors, Parabens, Animal Derived Ingredients, Polymeric Thickeners, Mineral Oil and all of the other stuff you don't want in your body.
5. Thank You Gift Box by The Giftinsider, $65
This might be one of our favorite finds – The Giftinsider Lindsay Schey, known for finding the best and most unique gifts for every occasion has recently launched her own line of gift boxes. The "Thank You" keepsake box comes with a succulent plant, a pretty candle in reusable jar, matches and small candies.
6. Michigan Modern: Design that Shaped America Coffee Table Book, $50
Here are a few other good ones – for the foodie or music lover! From left to right:
Beer Pairing $25, French Comfort Food $30, Bob Dylan NYC $35, Jimmy Page Autobiography $60
7. Barefoot Dreams Cozy Throw Blanket, $150
This blanket is a super soft indulgence, perfect for the host on their feet all day entertaining guests. They can wrap up and unwind in it, and be forever grateful!
8. Floral Forest Handmade Stationary from Tribalfare, $42
Everyone can use beautiful stationary to send a quick thank you – these cards are extra special, made by hand from cotton and recycled materials.
9. Spongelle Boxed Flower Sponge (body wash infused buffer), $16
This is another great gift to pamper your hostess with – the buffer is infused with hypoallergenic body wash and will cleanse, moisturize, and rejuvenate the skin and senses. They come in Papaya Yuzu, Ginger Bergamot, French Lavender, and Coconut Verbena.
10. La Vie En Rose Signature Box with 18 Roses from Maison Farola, $65
And last but not least, 18 roses artfully arranged in a vintage looking hat box will be a showstopper on your hostesses table or console.
All items* are available to purchase online to be shipped, or if you live in Metro Detroit, you can buy it online and have it ready to picked up in-store (*with the exception of the flowers from Maison Farola and Gift Insider Box).
Here's to holiday parties and happy host/hostesses all season long!