This holiday season, I feel very lucky because my party line-up is set to be quite merry. And for each soiree, I like to give a little gift to the host or hostess, in addition to whatever food or beverage item I am bringing. This year, like many of you, my budget is a wee bit tight, so I am capping the gift cost at $20 per event. What kind of host or hostess gift can be found under $20 you might ask? The answer may surprise you, and I have 15 incredible suggestions for gifts they are sure to love.
Traditionally a host or hostess gift is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for all of the effort it takes to organize and execute a lovely party. However, if you’ve ever planned an event (even a small one), you know that some of the most well-intentioned gifts can go awry. Cut flowers require immediate water and a vase, for example. And any item that is gift wrapped (no matter how beautifully) must be unwrapped… sometimes at a crucial moment during food prep.
If you are searching for a great gift, plan one in the “glance-and-hug” variety (meaning a gift that requires no effort on the part of the recipient, other than a sincere thank you. I wrap gifts in clear cellophane gift bags complete with festive shred and topped with ribbons, jingle bells, small ornaments, etc. so that the gift is visible and technically “wrapped,” but does not require opening. This type of wrapping can accommodate almost any type of small gift, as cellophane gift bags are available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes.
Below are 15 gift ideas for your next party that won’t break the budget and will guarantee an invitation back!
- Gourmet coffee and chocolate spoons
- Half a dozen taper candles and a long handled lighter
- Bath essentials (for after the party relaxation)
- Wine stopper and wine charms
- Proper English tea and a small jar of honey (My fave is Taylors of Harrogate Yorkshire Red)
- Coasters (you can never have enough)
- A book in their favored genre
- Cocoa, marshmallows, candy canes, and a tiny jar of cinnamon
- A special Christmas ornament (If breakable, use a clear plastic ornament box)
- Trio of jams and jellies
- Themed tea towels and spatulas
- Card or board game
- Spoon rest and wooden spoons
- Hand towels for the powder room
- Shaped ice cube trays and swizzle sticks
If you enjoyed this “Host and Hostess Gift Ideas for Under $20” post, visit Holiday Style or even more inspiration. And, while you’re here, please take some time to enter my current style giveaways.
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