Ideas for Truly Thoughtful Hostess Gifts

Even though a traditional hostess gift will surely be appreciated, sometimes the gift is just not a good fit. The hostess may be overwhelmed with last minute details when you show up with wine or candy or flowers or cheese. Should she stop everything and include your gift in the evening? She may not be sure of what to do, or even have the time to do it.

The key to a great hostess gift is to make it personal, convenient and usable. Keep your hostess' personality in mind and consider the following ideas.

Specialty Coffee or Gourmet Tea
Later in the evening, or later in the week, your hostess will have time to sit down with a relaxing cup of tea or coffee. Then she'll have time to reflect on your thoughtfulness. Consider whether or not to choose caffeine free or regular.

Breakfast Basket
Entertaining is fun but tiring. Give your hostess a basket with homemade (or purchased) muffins and a small jar of preserves for the morning after. Include a note telling her to sleep in.

Music CD
This is another gift than can be enjoyed later when the hostess has more time to herself. It doesn't take up much room on the CD shelf, either.

A Photograph
If you know your hostess well and have spent time together, you may have a nice candid photo of the two of you together or one of her family. Have a photo made and slip it into a card with a note. If it's a really good photo, put it in a small frame.

Stationary Items
Note cards make nice hostess gifts because they are something everyone needs to keep on hand. A pretty blank book with a beautiful cover is another option. If your hostess likes to garden, she might appreciate a garden journal. If she likes to cook, look for some clever recipe cards.

Crosswords and Puzzles
Lots of people like to relax with a distracting mind game. Books of Crossword Puzzles or Sudoku can give your hostess hours of entertainment when the party is over.

Homemade Food Items
Bringing unexpected food items for the party may not be wise, but you could gift your hostess with specialty items. Jellys, jams, chutneys or pickles in glass jars wrapped with a ribbon are a sparkling gift. Are you famous for your homemade noodles or chili soup? Bring a gift package along that the hostess can enjoy another time.

Goody Coupon
Coupons are a great way to give your hostess a service that she can use at her own convenience. How about a coupon for a movie rental or a car wash? If you know her tastes well, you might want to give her a coupon for a pedicure or one to Amazon.com so that she can purchase something from her wish list.

Regardless of what you choose as a hostess gift, add a festive ribbon (even if it is just a card) and whisper to your hostess, "It's for you for later." You'll look like the perfect guest.