The Do’s and Dont's of Decorating
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Guests at a planned party sometimes take a gift for the hostess as a polite, friendly gesture in appreciation of hospitality. Choose a gift that the hostess can either enjoy at the party or save for another time. A memorable gift may put you on the top of the next guest list.
A traditional gift for a party hostess is a bottle of wine, which she may serve at the party or save for another time. Don't show off with an expensive wine, which may outshine what she is serving, but don't buy the cheap stuff, either. Pick out a wine you would serve your own guests. If you know of a small, privately owned winery that is not well known but makes quality wine, consider picking up a bottle. Add a corkscrew or wine charms for a bonus gift.
A modest bouquet of flowers can show appreciation while also providing a nice decoration for the party. Carnations, lilacs and gardenias are fragrant, colorful flowers for bouquets, while daisies make a simple bouquet. For a fun conversation piece, when she goes to look for a vase for the flowers, tell her to wait. Then reach into your pocket and pull out what looks like a pretty flat sheet of plastic but is actually a collapsible vase. These disposable vases come in a variety of styles and are relatively inexpensive.
If your hostess loves to cook and try new recipes, she may appreciate a gift that reflects her culinary interests. Look for a good illustrated cookbook featuring a theme that you're sure she would enjoy. Tuck the cookbook into a gift bag along with a few ingredients, an unusual piece of cookware or a serving dish that would fit that theme.
The party hostess works hard to create a fun party for all her guests. Present her with a gift that will provide some fun for her, too. Fill a gift bag with small gifts that pamper, things like scented hand lotion, body spray, pretty soaps, costume jewelry, fancy chocolates, fancy jelly beans and homemade jam. Put together a goody bag of things you think will make her feel good.
