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Hostess Gifts With Style
They welcome us into their homes for food, drinks and holiday cheer at an already hectic time of year -- so it's only appropriate that we bring a little something for the fabulous host or hostess.
CityLine.ca wanted a few new and fabulous ideas for hostess gifts, so we turned to stylist Janette Ewen for inspiration.
Q: First off Janette, when is it appropriate to bring a hostess gift?
A: Always, whenever someone invites me to their house, even if it's casual, I always bring a little something -- it says that you care and appreciate their hospitality.
Q: How much should you typically spend on a hostess gift?
A: It depends on the event -- if it's a big dinner, I would say $25-$50. A casual cup of tea? A $5 packet of gourmet cookies is perfect!
Q: Should you also bring a bottle of wine?
A: If you bring a gift there is no need to also bring wine, unless it complements your gift -- as in a food/wine pairing. Unless you are coming to my house, always bring wine then. :-)
Q: Are homemade gifts (cookies, jams, etc) appropriate hostess gifts?
A: Yes!! They are welcomed and treasured, just make sure your packing is top notch!
Five Fun And Funky Hostess Gift Suggestions From Janette Ewen:
1. A great dip or baked treat in a luxe dish -- leave the treat and the dish as a treat.
2. A recipe box filled with some of your favourite recipes. On every subsequent visit bring an additional recipe card.
3. I love giving "TableTopics" conversation starting cards -- they really work and are tons of fun. Available at Teatro Verde.
4. During the Christmas holidays I like to make my host custom Christmas crackers designed with a specific theme in mind (something they love!).
5. Design and style books from Assouline are aways well received.
Originally published on CityLine.ca
