So Gifted

5 Ideas for Host and Hostess Presents

oliveandcocoa.com
A gift package full of cheese and crackers, nuts and sweets is the perfect gift for a busy family.
oliveandcocoa.com
The day before or after you are invited for dinner, send a floral arrangement to thank your host.
gilttaste.com
Fine wine is a timeless host or hostess gift. Present it at room
temperature so your host won't feel pressured to serve it.
oliveandcocoa.com
A designer scented candle is a luxurious gift to thank your host for having you for the weekend.
oliveandcocoa.com
Bring fine balsamic vinegar or olive oil when you're invited over for
an afternoon of grilling or a causal dinner.

Stumped by what to bring the hostess with the mostest? Not sure how to impress, and show your thanks, to the host who has it all?

Flaunt your skills as a guest (and show you know how to shop!) with these five superbly classic gifts. They guarantee you another invite.

Best Go-To Gift

Before you scoff at the predictability of this classic workhorse of a gift, consider why offering a fine bottle of wine or Champagne to your host is so pleasing. Liquor is meant to be shared among friends--so an entertainer can always use another fabulous bottle. Your job in presenting the vino, however, is to assume that it will not be opened at the affair you're attending.

So, don't be offended if it is not opened in your presence--it may actually suggest that the host chooses to keep it all to him or herself. One easy way to show you know the rules of etiquette on this front? Present a room temperature, not chilled, bottle of wine or bubbly to suggest it shall be quaffed at another time.

Best for a Daytime Affair

Invited to a brunch or a barbecue? Bringing a bottle of spendy olive oil, a few jars of gourmet jams or various grades of maple syrup demonstrates you've thought about the kind of occasion ahead.

The key to making this offering stand out is to find an unusual brand or flavor (perhaps you even picked up these items at a far-flung locale on your honeymoon) so that it stands apart from the usual supermarket fray.