At this time of year, invitations abound to open houses or parties with family and friends. As a thank-you to the host or hostess, a bottle of wine or box of chocolate is the traditional gift. But the following suggestions offer a wider range of options.
Fresh flowers:
Bringing cut flowers may not be ideal as the host will be busy entertaining guests and may not have time to look for vases or trim flowers. Instead, buy loose flowers such as carnations and make a small bouquet by tying the stems together tightly. Then add some greenery, berries, twigs or small ornaments, trim the stems to approximately 10-cm (4-inches), and tie with a ribbon. Once you arrive at the party, all you need is a glass of water to put the bouquet in. This small arrangement can be placed on a corner table, in the kitchen work area, or in a guest bathroom. Another option is a mini poinsettia or Christmas cactus—plants that need no immediate care.
Food:
Gifts of food are always appreciated and can be made ahead of time. Make something unusual such as homemade gourmet granola with decadent ingredients like candied orange, cranberries, cherries, blueberries, or ginger. Add assorted nuts such as hazelnuts, almonds, pecans or cashews, or a combination of the above. A tray of homemade fudge or assorted biscotti wrapped festively are sure to please, as are homemade jams and jellies.
Candles:
Gift shops have an assortment of beautifully designed candles that are scented with pine, cedar, eucalyptus, cranberry, vanilla, peppermint—the choices are endless. Soy candles are biodegradable and non-toxic and maintain their colour, keep their fragrance longer, and burn cleaner than paraffin candles.
Music:
If you’re familiar with your host’s taste in music, making a collection of favourite holiday tunes on a CD will be much appreciated.
Wine:
If you do decide to give wine, put a red velvet bow around the neck of the bottle, attach wine charms, or put it in a decorated box or bag for an extra special touch.
“It’s the thought that counts,” and any one of these gifts will show that time and effort has been made to give your host a gift with that personal touch.
