foldycardThanksgiving hostess gifts: 10 ideas to bring to dinner
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Invited to Thanksgiving dinner? Don't arrive empty-handed. A hostess gift should be easy to carry, need nothing from the host on the day, and be something they can enjoy once everyone has gone home. Here are ten that fit, each with a thank-you note.
Ten hostess gifts
1. Scented candle
A nice candle is the classic hostess gift for a reason: everyone uses one, and it doesn't need to come out during dinner. Pick a seasonal scent like cinnamon or cedar.
See options on AmazonThank you for having us! Light this on a quiet evening once all the dishes are done.
2. Wooden serving board
Something they can use for cheese or bread at the next gathering. Acacia or olive wood looks good and lasts.
See options on AmazonFor your next feast. Thank you for making us feel so welcome!
3. Good olive oil or a finishing salt set
Fancy pantry staples people rarely buy themselves. They're useful, they look good on the counter, and the host can enjoy them after everyone leaves.
See options on AmazonThank you for the wonderful dinner! Something to make your next meal a little fancier.
4. A wine or drinks accessory
If you're bringing a bottle, pair it with a nice stopper, a pourer or a set of charms. It feels like a gift, not just a drink for the table.
See options on AmazonCheers to you, our wonderful host! Thank you for having us.
5. Autumn dish towels
Inexpensive, useful and seasonal. They're also handy on the day, when the host is drowning in dishes.
See options on AmazonThank you for cooking up such a lovely day. These are for the cleanup (sorry!).
6. Coffee or tea sampler
For the morning after. A sampler lets them try a few kinds without committing to a big bag.
See options on AmazonFor a slow morning after a busy day. Thank you for hosting!
7. Small potted plant or herb
Lasts longer than cut flowers and doesn't need a vase found in the middle of the rush.
See options on AmazonA little something green to say thank you. We had such a great time!
8. Jam, honey or chocolate gift box
Treats that keep. The host can put them out for dessert or keep them for later.
See options on AmazonSomething sweet for the sweetest host. Thank you for having us!
9. A cookbook
For the host who loves to cook. Pick one with a theme they'd enjoy, like baking, soups or a cuisine they love.
See options on AmazonFor more delicious dinners. Thank you for the feast!
10. Recipe card box
A simple box with blank cards for the family recipes. Write your favorite dish from the night on the first card.
See options on AmazonSo we never lose the recipe for that stuffing! Thank you for a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Hostess gift etiquette
- Don't bring something that needs work. Flowers that need a vase or a dish that needs the oven add to the host's busy day.
- Bringing wine? Don't expect it to be opened. It's a gift for later, not a contribution to dinner, unless the host asked for it.
- Ask before bringing food. The menu is usually planned for weeks. If you do bring a dish, bring it ready to serve.
- Keep it modest. Something thoughtful matters more than something expensive.
Send a thank-you card
The day after dinner, send the host a Thanksgiving card to say thank you. Every gift above has a note to go with it, or pick one from these messages for the host.
Say thank you with a card
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