10 DIY Hostess Gifts To Make And Share This Holiday Season
Bringing a simple yet thoughtful gift is a fantastic way to show any dinner host that you’re thrilled to be a part of their special celebrations.
Hostess gifts don’t have to be expensive or purchased from a store — you can easily make something at home that your hosts will be grateful to receive — and you can have fun doing it!
Do People Still Give Hostess Gifts?
Yes, the tradition of bringing hostess gifts is still very much alive. While it might not be a strict requirement, many people appreciate the thoughtful gesture of presenting a hostess gift when attending events or gatherings. Hostess gifts can range from a simple bouquet of flowers or a bottle of wine to more personalized items that reflect the tastes and preferences of the host or hostess. This tradition continues to be a meaningful way to express gratitude for the invitation and to acknowledge the effort that goes into hosting an event. While not everyone may adhere to this practice, it remains a widely recognized and appreciated social custom.
What is the Purpose of a Hostess Gift?
The purpose of a hostess gift is to express gratitude and appreciation to the host or hostess of an event or gathering. It is a thoughtful gesture to show your thanks for their hospitality and the effort they’ve put into hosting the occasion. Hostess gifts can vary in form, ranging from flowers and wine to specialty foods or personalized items, and they serve as a token of goodwill to enhance the social exchange and strengthen relationships. Giving a hostess gift reflects courtesy and acknowledges the time and energy invested in creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Should You Always Bring a Hostess Gift?
While it’s not an absolute requirement, bringing a hostess gift is a thoughtful and gracious gesture that is generally appreciated. It demonstrates appreciation for the effort the host or hostess has put into organizing an event or gathering. In many social settings and cultures, it’s considered good manners to bring a small token of appreciation when invited to someone’s home. However, the scale and formality of the event, as well as your relationship with the host, can influence whether a hostess gift is expected. Even if it’s not obligatory, offering a hostess gift is a kind way to express gratitude for the hospitality you’re about to enjoy.
What if I Forgot to Bring a Hostess Gift?
If you forgot to bring a hostess gift, don’t worry too much; it happens to everyone. The most important thing is to express your gratitude verbally. Offer a sincere thank-you for the invitation and for the effort the host or hostess has put into the event. You can follow up with a note or a message after the event to show your appreciation.
If possible, consider sending a belated hostess gift. This could be a small bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates, or a personalized item that you think the host or hostess would enjoy. It’s never too late to show your appreciation, and the thoughtfulness of sending a gift afterward will likely be well-received.
Remember, the intention behind the hostess gift is to express gratitude, and sincerity goes a long way in making up for any oversight.
1. Paint-Dipped Spoons
via Mom Advice
2. Quick Bread In A Bottle
via Sunset
3. Pretty Plant Gift
via Precious Sister
4. Pumpkin Latte Sugar Scrub
via Frugal Mom Eh!
5. Spiced Pecans
via Martha Stewart
6. Mason Jar Luminaries
via Mom Spark
7. DIY Gold Cheese Labels
via A Beautiful Mess
8. Liquor Lollipops
via Hostess With The Mostess
9. Flavored Salts
via POPSUGAR
10. Banana Bread And Honey Butter
via Everyday Occasions
Tip: When you have some time, whip up a few gifts before the season gets any busier. You’ll always have something on hand for those last-minute invites, or for a gift when something unexpected comes up! Be prepared, as they say!
Have fun making these DIY hostess gifts, my friends! And happy giving!
Désirée is the Canuck mama behind So Fawned Lifestyle. Blogger, social media wrangler, go-to girl. Living the life with her partner Rich and awesome daughter Gretchen, she spends her days typing and drinking copious amounts of tea, and watching Gilmore Girl reruns.