We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Holidays & Entertaining The Best Gift Ideas of 2024 The 45 Best Hostess Gifts of 2024 Delight your host and say “thanks” with these thoughtful presents. By Elizabeth Loomis Elizabeth Loomis Elizabeth Loomis is a writer who has covered a number of lifestyle topics, including interior design, fashion, and lifestyle for publications including The Zoe Report, Well + Good, InStyle, and The Spruce. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on February 12, 2024 In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Reviews FAQs Take Our Word for It Real Simple / David Hattan Attending dinner parties and visiting someone else’s home for the weekend are a joy, but choosing the perfect present to express your gratitude to the host can often feel like a challenge. The best hostess gifts are thoughtful, perhaps a little luxurious, and always attuned to their tastes. “Good gifts include gourmet olive oil, embroidered linen napkins, monogrammed coasters, flowers in a vase, specialty coffees or teas, and anything chocolate,” says Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach. Whether it's a personalized piece, a chic home decor item, or a gourmet gift basket, each item on this list has been chosen for its ability to delight and show your appreciation. The carefully curated collection is designed to cater to various tastes, occasions, and budgets, making finding the best host or hostess gift a pleasure rather than a chore. Nest New York Petite Scented Votive Candle Set Amazon View On Amazon $37 View On Nordstrom $46 View On Nestnewyork.com Beautifully packaged and wonderfully fragrant, this luxury candle set from Nest is a delightful way to thank your host. Bonus: They’ll think of you every time one of the six scents fills their home. Driftaway The Coffee Explorer Box Driftaway View On Amazon $33 View On Driftaway.coffee View On Etsy $60 For the coffee connoisseur, this sampler offers a taste journey through multiple coffee profiles. The set not only includes multiple flavors from around the world, but also a tasting form and flavor wheel to help the coffee lover better understand their tastes and what they might like to try next. Anthropologie Anneli Vase View On Anthropologie Flowers are a classic hostess gift for a quick visit, but if you really want to up your game for an overnight or weekend stay, arrive with something to display the flowers, too. If you can, plan ahead and trim the stems, so all your host needs to do is add water to the vase when you arrive. Not only does it give your host or hostess a permanent reminder of your time together, but they'll also be able to keep their full attention on entertaining, rather than scrambling to find a vase or cut stems in the midst of hosting. Mark and Graham Leather Coasters View On Markandgraham.com $49 We love Whitmore's idea of monogrammed coasters, and this leather set from Mark and Graham checks all of the boxes. You can choose from six different monogram styles and include up to three characters. TmolosCo Personalized Charcuterie Board Etsy View On Etsy $45 A custom gift always feels special, and this personalized serving board is no exception. Perfect for the host who loves to entertain, it's as special and stylish as it is practical. Compartes Truffle Gift Box Compartes View On Compartes.com This colorful assortment of ganache truffles comes from buzzy LA chocolate shop Compartés. Flavors change with the season, as do the designs. Best of all: It comes with a no-melt guarantee. Williams Sonoma Fruit and Cheese Gift Crate Williams Sonoma View On Williams-Sonoma $100 Combining fresh fruit and artisan cheese, this gift is sure to be a crowd-pleaser whenever it’s pulled out. From pears to nuts to gourmet cheeses, the crate has everything you need for a spread before dinner or on a lazy afternoon. The 45 Best Food Gifts of 2024 East Fork The Mug East Fork View On Eastfork.com View On Food52 $44 Handcrafted and versatile, this mug is a simple but thoughtful gift that your host will use daily. Papier Monogram Notecards Papier View On Papier.com $51 Personalized notecards are a classic and thoughtful gift for the host who values thoughtful correspondence. The Spice House Best Sellers Collection Crate & Barrel View On Thespicehouse.com View On Crate & Barrel $42 Treat your host to an array of world-class flavors with this spice collection. From garlic pepper butcher’s rub for the barbeque to shallot and herb seasoning to elevate even the most simple of salmon dishes, the set truly has something for everyone. Hasbro Nostalgia Edition Clue Board Game Courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond View On Amazon $30 View On Walmart $30 View On L.L.Bean $40 Many people are familiar with Clue, but now they can play the classic board game just as it looked in 1963. Was it Colonel Mustard in the billiards room with a candlestick? Figure out the who, where, and how at the next game night. Art of Tea Assorted Teabag Sachet 6-Section Gift Box Amazon View On Amazon $99 View On Artoftea.com This vegan leather box with 36 assorted organic teas will add a touch of sophistication to your host's tea collection, offering a cup for every mood and occasion. Uncommon Goods Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses View On Uncommon Goods $20 If the entertainer in your life is known to break out a bottle of tequila, these hand-carved shot glasses bring salt directly to your lips without having to break out the shaker. You'll still need to cut lime wedges, of course. Flamingo Estate The Chef's Kiss Gift Set Flamingo Estate View On Flamingoestate.com Spice up your host's cooking with this organic extra virgin olive oil, cold-infused with fresh, hand-picked herbs from the Flamingo Estate gardens. The gift set also comes with salsa macha and honey from the Estate, too. Graf Lantz Bierfilzl Merino Wool Felt Coasters Amazon View On Amazon $28 View On Graflantz.com $20 View On Food52 $26 Made from premium merino wool felt, these minimalist coasters are functional for hosting and have a dash of modern flair. French Bloom Le Rose Organic French Bubbly, 0.0% Alcohol French Bloom View On Boisson.co View On Upsidedrinks.com Who said you need alcohol to have a good time? This non-alcoholic sparkling wine from French Bloom is a refreshing and inclusive gift for any occasion. Everlasting Lil Things Lavender Dried Flowers in a White Ceramic Vase Etsy View On Etsy $39 Flowers are always a good idea; it's just sad when they die. Dried flowers, on the other hand, are forever. This gorgeous arrangement comes with a 4-inch-tall ceramic vase, though if you already have your own, you can get the bouquet on its own. Anthropologie Gilded Agate Cheese Board Anthropologie View On Anthropologie $78 This gorgeous agate cheese board will look fabulous no matter what they serve at their next get-together. Each one-of-a-kind platter measures approximately 11 inches x 7 inches and is sure to make a real statement glistening from the dinner table. Drowsy Damask Rose Silk Pillowcase Drowsy View On Drowsysleepco.com A gift of pure indulgence, this silk pillowcase will ensure your host's bed is as stylish as the rest of their decor. Slant Collections Please Leave by 9:00 Napkin Set Slant Collections View On Amazon $13 View On Walmart $14 View On Slantcollections.com They love to host, but maybe they don't love when guests stay past their welcome. These gold-foil cocktail napkins will send the lighthearted and comical message that when 9 p.m. rolls around, everyone should pack up and hit the road. Harlem Candle Co. Josephine Reed Diffuser Harlem Candle Co. View On Harlemcandlecompany.com View On Candledelirium.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue $52 This luxury reed diffuser from Harlem Candle Company is inspired by the legendary performer Josephine Baker. The sophisticated scent adds an air of opulence and culture to any home. JimJim Clear Glass Straws Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon $7 When they're hosting, they can use these for cocktails, water, and other beverages, but because of their wide design, they're also great for smoothies. This is a very practical gift that they will appreciate being able to use every day. Crate & Barrel Cocktail Smoking Kit Crate & Barrel View On Crate & Barrel $90 View On Havenly.com $90 Perfect for the aspiring mixologist, this smoking kit from Crate & Barrel has everything your host needs to whip up delectable creations for cocktail hour. Printworks Classic Chess Set The Container Store View On The Container Store View On Arket.com View On Printworksmarket.us Entertaining becomes even more enjoyable with this beautifully designed chess set that can provide hours of fun during your time as a guest and long beyond. Crate & Barrel Tondo Acacia 5-Part Server Crate & Barrel View On Crate & Barrel $40 Every host should have a solid piece of serveware. This artful acacia wood piece features five compartments to fill with snacks for their next get-together, with the center well designed for dip. Better Homes & Gardens Unscented Taper Candles Walmart View On Walmart $7 Lend some light and elegance to their space with this set of two sculptural taper candles from Better Homes & Gardens' Walmart line (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Real Simple’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). Choose from eight colors, ranging from pink and green to orange and dark blue. Via Carota Classic Negroni Via Carota View On Drinkviacarota.com View On Drizly View On Caskers Perfectly mixed and ready to serve, this classic negroni brings a taste of Italy to any party. Nautical Dream Lobster Embroidered Cotton Napkin Etsy View On Etsy $30 Give your host the gift of whimsical elegance with these lobster-embroidered cotton napkins. They're the ideal finishing touch to any coastal-themed or summer dinner party. Estelle Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glass Set Nordstrom View On Nordstrom $75 View On Estellecoloredglass.com $75 View On Luluandgeorgia.com These vibrant and colorful stemless wine glasses are a thoughtful gift for any wine lover and design enthusiast. Creatoshopp Custom Pet Portrait Etsy View On Etsy $9 Ideal for devoted pet parents, this custom pet portrait will bring a personalized touch to your host’s home decor and make them smile whenever they look at it. Cabana Magazine The Hostess Book French.us View On French.us View On Cabanamagazine.com This beautiful book offers inspiration for anyone who loves to entertain. It’s filled with stunning imagery and expert advice on planning a party, along with a diary to record dinner guest lists and menus. Aarke Carbonator III Sparkling & Seltzer Water Maker Amazon View On Amazon $223 View On Williams-Sonoma $230 View On Aarke.us Sleek, stylish, and sustainable, the Aarke Carbonator III will allow your host to make sparkling water at home in seconds. And although it’s an investment, it will quickly become a favorite for guests who love sparkling water, not to mention saving them countless trips to the store, along with disposable bottles. Crate & Barrel Bees Knees Cocktail Set Crate & Barrel View On Crate & Barrel $62 Every cocktail connoisseur needs a nice pair of glasses and a shaker. This set, designed for crafting Bee's Knees (gin, lemon juice, and honey), features two coupe glasses and a hand-hammered cobbler shaker and muddler with mirror-polished finishes. RONXS Lighter Amazon View On Amazon $10 View On Walmart $13 This electric lighter will help them tackle a variety of hosting tasks, from lighting candles around the house to firing up the grill. The long neck will make sure they never get soot on their hands. It's wind- and splash-proof, and it ignites up to 700 times on a single charge. Kodak Funsaver Disposable Film Camera 2-Pack Amazon View On Amazon $30 Bring some fun and nostalgia to the party with these disposable film cameras. They're a great conversation starter and a way to capture memorable moments on your visit. The Daily Edited A5 Notebook The Daily Edited View On Thedailyedited.com A sleek and chic gift for the organized host, this black notebook can be personalized with their initials for an extra special touch. Via Citrus Calamondin Citrus Tree Via Citrus View On Amazon $65 View On Viacitrus.com This miniature citrus tree adds a pop of green and can even provide your host with fresh fruit right in their home. Win Son Presents, A Taiwanese American Cookbook Amazon View On Amazon $26 View On Barnesandnoble.com $40 View On Bookshop.org $38 Full of heartwarming tales of Taiwanese-American culture along with mouthwatering recipes, this cookbook is perfect for the host who loves global cuisines. Amanda Lindroth Jaipur Napkins Amanda Lindroth View On Amandalindroth.com View On Overthemoon.com These vibrant napkins will bring a pop of color to any dining table, making every meal a festive occasion. Max ID NY Ghost Flute Pair Max ID NY View On Maxidnystore.com This pair of glass flutes is a sleek and elegant gift, adding a modern touch to any home bar. Art of Play DKNG Playing Cards Amazon View On Amazon $12 View On Artofplay.com For the host who loves a good game night, this stylish deck of cards will elevate any evening of entertainment. Crate & Barrel Marin White Taper/Pillar Candle Holders Crate & Barrel View On Crate & Barrel View On Modsy.com View On Havenly.com $25 This candle holder set is a clean, modern addition to any decor. Pair it with the colorful taper candles above to complete your hostess gift. Ladurée Paris Prestige Green Box of 15 Macarons Goldbelly View On Goldbelly.com Give the sweet gift of macarons with this assortment of 15 cookies from one of the most coveted pastry shops in the world. While exact flavors are the chef's choice, your recipient may get classic flavors like vanilla, coffee, and pistachio, or seasonal flavors such as almond, s'mores, and chocolate lavender. Esther Perel Where Should We Begin Amazon View On Amazon $40 View On Estherperel.com $40 View On Uncommon Goods $40 For hosts who love a thought-provoking conversation, give them Esther Perel's card game to pull out after the dinner plates have been cleared. The deck comes with 280 cards so guests will never get bored, whether it’s their first or 50th time playing. Katie Kime Cheetahs Ice Bucket Katie Kime View On Katiekime.com View On Shopralphandrose.com View On Shopmilkpunch.com You could chill your wine in the fridge, but where’s the fun in that? For the hostess who knows how to set a good table and throw a good party, this stylish cheetah print ice bucket would make a fun and fashionable addition to any party. Questions You Might Ask How much should I spend on a host or hostess gift? There’s no need to spend a large amount of money or put any financial strain on yourself to delight your host. There are plenty of affordable options that will make anyone happy, and a good hostess gift does abide by the maxim that it’s the thought that counts. Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, agrees. “Spend whatever you can afford,” she says. “Host gifts are generally small and affordable, including many under $50.” What is a good thank-you gift for hospitality? Plenty of products make for good hostess gifts, especially those that fall under the realm of home, kitchen, and personal care. When it comes to house-related gifts, consider items that contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere. For instance, a beautifully crafted vase, a set of scented candles, or a stylish coffee table book can enhance a home's decor and provide a daily reminder of your appreciation. For the kitchen, gourmet ingredients, unique utensils, and specialty beverages make for excellent gifts. A gourmet olive oil or a selection of artisanal teas can elevate everyday meals into something extraordinary. Alternatively, a well-crafted serving board or a chic apron can be both practical and delightful. What are host and hostess gift ideas to avoid? While the universe of potentially wonderful hostess gifts is large, there are a few categories you might want to avoid to maximize the chances that your gift will be both loved and used. “Avoid giving alcohol if you aren’t sure the host drinks,” Whitmore says. “And even if they do, don’t give alcohol unless you know it’s their favorite blend.” Other recommendations to avoid giving your host a gift they don’t end up using? “Avoid anything with a heavy fragrance,” Whitmore says. “What might appeal to you may or may not appeal to the host.” It’s also best to double-check before making a final selection for your host to make sure nothing is out of date and the seals are intact. And as funny as you might think a gag gift is, these can be risky, so it’s best to stick with tried-and-true delights your host will actually be able to use and enjoy. Take Our Word for It This article was written by Elizabeth Loomis, a seasoned writer who has spent years covering lifestyle topics that have given her a discerning eye for what makes a gift both delightful and memorable. From her time reporting on the latest trends in interior design for The Zoe Report to her work exploring the dynamic world of beauty for InStyle, she's developed an understanding of how aesthetics and functionality can merge to create standout products. Her expansive coverage of lifestyle topics for Well + Good, The Spruce, and other lifestyle publications has further enhanced her sense of the beautiful, the functional, and the unique. To compile this list, she spoke with Jacqueline Whitmore, etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, and combed through countless products to bring you the best of the best. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit