One major reason to be thankful this Thanksgiving is not hosting the main event. That doesn’t mean, however, that you’re completely off the hook.
Finding the right way to thank your host –who has sweat over every detail from the Turkey roaster to the table napkins –isn’t always an easy proposition. The key is finding a gift that is both thoughtful and appropriately rewards your host for all her work.
Below are a few suggestions that are sure to put a smile on the face of your host and insure you get invited again next year.
Flowers
Presenting your hostess with fresh flowers is one of the most popular ways to thank her for the effort. One mistake that many guests make is to buy flowers from a generic florist Locally, Ovando is the go-to florist of the style set. Her designs are both architecturally interesting and sexy. Depending on my mood, I will sometimes arrange the flowers myself and and present them in a beautiful vase. After all, what’s a Baccarat vase without flowers?
Delicacies & Cookbook
Every neighborhood has their local delicacies. If you are traveling to your host, bring something yummy from home along with a cookbook. This way your ambitious hostess can attempt to reproduce the delicacy. Some of our local favorites include Payard pastries and cookbook, most anything from Dean & Deluca or Eli Zabar. Head this way for a beautiful box set from Vosage Chocolate, an assortment of pasta sauces or a box of fresh truffles and accessories.
Wine
A bottle of wine is likely the most popular hostess gift. Wine is always a perfect gift because there is such a broad range of budgets available. Personally, I like to bring a bottle of chilled champagne because it’s festive and goes with almost all foods. There are also some great subscription packages. I personally love the idea of Tasting Room where you can provide your host with a box of mini-wines and he can pick his favorite and receive the full size. Wine memberships are another way to impress your host.
Monogramed Home Items
It’s hard to turn up your nose at a gift with your name on it. To get extra personal it’s nice to monogram a gift item from cocktail napkins to bathrobes. J. Crew and Neiman Marcus have entire monogram shops, which includes a variety of merchandise. Henri Bendel, particularly, is able to monogram and emboss a variety of items from bags to toiletry items.
Candles
A scented candle is both understated and memorable. Try a 3-wick candle, which will add a glorious glow to their living room and fill the house with a wonderful scent. Trying to score major points? I love most scents from Fornasetti, Diptyque and DL&co .