:strip_icc()/the-best-hostess-gifts-tout-1ad213a6ff66447e8c21a7fa9d097950.jpg?w=1024&resize=1024,1024&ssl=1 "Summer Hosting Season Is Here—These Gifts Will Earn You “Best Guest” Status")
Between preparing the food or drinks, setting the table, and queuing the perfect soundtrack, hosting guests is hard work. As a guest, nothing’s worse than showing up at the event empty-handed—especially when all the other attendees come bearing gifts. That said, finding the perfect gift for the hostess with the mostest can be easier said than done, especially when you don’t know them too well. That’s where we come in.
To find the best hostess gifts, we researched many options, including decorative pieces, kitchen staples, and delicious treats. Our top picks are practical enough to please any hostess, yet thoughtful enough that they likely wouldn’t buy them for themselves. Stick around for our favorites that are so good, they just might secure you a second invite.
Home & Decor
For a self-care gift, we love this LAFCO handcare set or the deluxe body duo from Salt & Stone—trust us, they’re worth the hype. If you want to skip the guesswork of choosing their favorite fragrance, a classic diffuser is a safe bet, as they can add their own essential oils. We’re also obsessed with this West Elm Luxe Chenille Throw: it’s cozy yet lightweight (perfect for all seasons) and stylish enough to display on a bed or sofa.
Garden
Whether they’re a seasoned gardener or are just getting used to their outdoor space, these gifts will make them excited to show off their yard. DIY chefs will love these garden jars, which help them grow their own herbs from scratch—because let’s be real: fresh herbs always taste better. If bartending’s more their speed, this cocktail garden kit is a must-have. And if you’re not sure of their gardening habits, you can’t go wrong with an olive tree, which adds a touch of greenery to any space.
Bar and Kitchen
For summer hosting, this stylish pitcher is perfect for serving guests lemonade…or sangria. On extra-hot days, they’ll love having a wine chiller in their arsenal—this one doubles as both a cooler and a pitcher. And we can’t forget about these coasters: they not only prevent water rings but also add a chic touch to any table setting.
Questions for Your Questions, Answered
When should you bring a hostess gift?
In general, bring hostess gifts anytime your hostess is providing food or drinks—brunches, lunches, dinners, cocktail parties, and so on. Even if a gift feels excessive, you may feel awkward walking in empty handed, so it’s always better to come prepared. We also suggest bringing a small gift the first time you visit someone’s home as a sort of housewarming present.
Are there gifts you should avoid?
Yes—it’s best to keep things practical and steer clear of super personal items, like clothing or skincare. Everyone has different preferences, so unless you know the hostess really well, it can be hard to guess their favorites. The same goes for decor—stick with something more practical, since you may not know what matches their style or existing color scheme.
When it comes to perishable items, Ina Garten says to avoid things that the hostess might feel obligated to share immediately or that cause extra work—like flowers without a vase or wine that they feel pressured to serve guests. The only perishable item on our list is the Levain Cookie Tin, which can be frozen for months—and yes, they’ll still taste just as fresh on day one.
Who We Are
This article was written by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Better Homes & Gardens with nearly two years of experience creating gift guides and home shopping content. When going to someone’s home, her go-to gift is a candle—it’s a subtle luxury that many people appreciate but wouldn’t think to buy themselves.