How to Select a Gift for Your Host

While guests are never obligated to bring anything to a party other than themselves, offering a simple gift to the host is a thoughtful gesture.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Gift Cards
• Aromatherapy Candles
• Chrysanthemums
• Plants
• Potpourri
• Boxes Of Chocolates
• Oil And Vinegar Bottles
• Olive (not Virgin) Oil
• Red Wines
• Vinegar
• White Wines

1. Reflect upon your host's decorating scheme if you have been to his or her house. Purchase a small trinket, vase or candy bowl that matches the decor.

2. Choose a gift that will not interfere with your host's pre-planned menu. Avoid, for instance, a box of cannoli or a freshly baked coconut pie.

3. Consider offering a small plant or flower arrangement. A small potted plant is often preferable to freshly cut flowers, which require the host to search for a vase and to spend time on the arrangement.

4. Pick out a box of decadent gourmet chocolates or a unique bottle of wine.

5. Make your own infused olive oil or vinegar and bottle it for your host. Stuff a decorative bottle with herbs (dill, parsley, garlic) or fruits (cranberries, raspberries, blackberries). Fill the bottle to the top with olive oil or white vinegar, screw a pour spout on top and voila!

6. Buy an aromatherapy candle with a simple candleholder, or a bag of potpourri to spread heavenly scents throughout your host's home.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid spending an exorbitant amount of money, which will inevitably cause your host to feel guilty.

• Wrap your gift in simple tissue paper or decorated butcher paper. Present wine with a bow around the neck; wrap the bottom of a flowerpot in colored cellophane paper.