The Ultimate Guide for Holiday Host Gifts

Maybe I’m too early, but I’m really excited about the season. It’s that time of the year when everyone you love puts the intention in to get together. And behind that memorable celebration is a gracious host who puts in many hours of planning and effort. Showing your appreciation with a thoughtful token is a wonderful gesture that elevates the spirit of giving. 

But what to bring as a hostess gift can become quite the question. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with different ideas that are inspired by the unique hostesses out there.

More than Just a Thank You

A host gift is a small token of appreciation to the person who opens their doors and spends their time trying to create a memorable experience for everyone. It’s a sign of gratitude for their hospitality and acknowledges their hard work and generosity.

While a bottle of wine or a bouquet of flowers are classic choices, thinking a little outside the box will make your gift stand out. 

This year, aim for gifts that are both thoughtful and useful. 

What to Bring as a Hostess Gift: Ideas for Every Host

The world of holiday host gifts can feel overwhelming. You want something special for the occasion that highlights the host’s taste. Maybe you want to get them something they might not splurge on themselves or something that complements their home or interests. 

Here are some holiday hostess gift ideas that will impress your host.

Many of these items are simple on their own, but the presentation makes all the difference. Adding thick ribbon, branches of herbs, or small ornaments can take your regular gift from meh to wow!

I’ll add links to make them easy to find, but you can also shop at local shops or big box stores and find many of the items on this list. I love going to Target, Walmart, Home Goods, and Marshalls and finding beautiful items.

For the Host Who Loves to Cook 

• A wooden board that can be used for hosting. Add a beautiful dishtowel in front of it and wrap it up with a thick ribbon. 
• Local honey always feels like a treat. Your hostess can use it in her tea or alongside her cheese board when entertaining.
• Local jams and chutneys. My friend brought this once, and it was such a sweet treat that also supported a small business.
• Small potted herbs. Get a small plant from your local grocery store and put it in a holiday pot. 
• Artisan Chocolate that the hostess can enjoy after everyone leaves. 
• High quality hot cocoa in a mason jar and add some cute stirring spoons with ribbon.
• Seasonal chocolate like peppermint bark is a delicious treat.
• Make home-baked bread or cookies and share it along with the recipe.
• Seasonal dish towel with hand soap and moisturizer for the hostess to leave near the sink.

For the Host Who Loves to Entertain 

• Bottle of Wine with a bottle opener or wine stopper. Just adding that extra touch feels a little more intentional.
• Cocktail books can be both functional and beautiful to display. This is one that I have and love.
• Cocktail napkins that are seasonal, fun, or have the last name initial on them.
• Bitters sampling set for your host to make her own creations. 
• Silicone ice cube molds for unique cocktail drinks. Check out these that put the initial in the ice.
• Cocktail coasters that are playful. From cute disposable ones to beautiful stone coasters, the options are endless. 
• The Cocktail Box Co. Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit or any other cocktail kit for your hostess to enjoy.
• A gorgeous bar mixing glass that wows when making cocktails.
• Premium Cocktail Smoker Kit with 6 Wood Smoking Chip Flavors is a perfect starter kit.
• A bottle of alcohol and the complementary ingredients for a specific cocktail (for example, if you like a Moscow Mule, bring the vodka, ginger beer, and limes).
• Bar towels that celebrate cocktail making.

For the Host Who Loves the Home 

• A seasonal ornament that celebrates the host in a playful way.
• Beeswax candle with a glass jar of matches that will make the home smell amazing.
• Small trinket dish for jewelry or keys.
• A notepad and matching pen set work well for grocery lists, reminders, etc.
•  Decorative storage box that’s perfect for remote controls or anything they want to “hide”.
• Glass container with chocolates in it for them to leave out for guests.
• A gift card to a local antique store or small business allows your hostess to treat herself to something special at a later date.

For the Host Who Loves Self-Care 

• Beautiful jar of Epsom Salt for her to put next to her bath.
• A lavender spray for bedtime is perfect because it’s the essential oil that makes bedtime better.
• Small journal for your hostess to write down her thoughts. Check out this beautiful leather bound journal.
• A tube of quality hand cream that can be left by the bed to soften hands before bed.
• Small bath set with shower gel, scrub, and sponge for her to luxuriate with.
•  Shower steamers to open up the airways while showering. These are made in the USA and have over 30,000 reviews.
• A soft eye mask that your hostess can use when trying to relax during the day.
• For your more spiritual hostess, affirmation cards can be a great gift.
• Spa socks that are infused with oils are perfect for those who like to pamper themselves.
• New water bottle that you can deliver with flowers inside it.

Choosing the perfect hostess gift really comes down to a little creative thinking and a lot of heart. These ideas should keep you well-equipped to show your gratitude and make a lasting impression. 

Are you hosting this holiday season? Check out my post "How to Plan a Dinner Party: A Step-by-Step Guide for Stress-Free Entertaining" for ideas to make it easier.