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Dec
04
Hostess Gifts that Won't Break the Bank

Hostess Gifts that Won't Break the Bank

Throwing a Christmas party can be a lot of work. Say thanks to your host or hostess for all their hard work with some unique gifts that won't break the bank and please even the most discriminating gourmand. Why show up to a dinner party or open house with the ubiquitous bottle of wine or flowers when you can easily create a custom gourmet gift that will make your host or hostess feel special?

Gourmet specialty food items such as vintage balsamic vinegar, fruity extra-virgin olive oil, complex red-wine vinegar or some delectable treats will make you a welcome guest. Even less-experienced cooks can appreciate the power of a really great salt (or olive oil or vinegar). A wooden salt bowl and pepper mill make thoughtful extras, as does a fine linen dish towel or guest towel, which can double as gift wrap - just bundle everything up and tie with a ribbon.

For DIY cooks, homemade treats make the gift extra special. Trade in your store-bought cashews for easy to make spiced pecans that carry a kick. Place the finished product in a glass jar and attach a colourful ribbon with the recipe for a hostess gift with some zip.

Make morning-after cleanup delish with a basket of yummy muffins and holiday/seasonal flavoured coffee or tea so that she or he doesn't even have to think about slaving over breakfast. Wrap up home baked muffins in a linen dishtowel, and top with a jar of homemade jam. Tie them together with a ribbon to match the towel, securing a wooden spreader in the knot of the bow.

Sarah Richardson suggests tins or sachets of mulling spices for making mulled wine or mulled apple cider. Make 10 to 15 tins at a time so they're ready when you're invited to someone's home. It's something unusual that your hostess wouldn't normally receive.

Make a giant batch of your favourite cookies or squares and package them in brown paper bags and add homemade labels for a special touch. If you're not a baker, you can always cheat and use store-bought goodies. Thoughtful packaging can make all the difference to an otherwise ordinary gift.

Sarah explains, "The best hostess gifts are simple heartfelt gestures to show someone how much you care about them - that's the spirit of the season."

Your hostess or host will surely appreciate any thoughtful gift. Gifts that require time, preparation and thought tell them that you know what he or she did to make the party a success and that you are grateful for their efforts.

Blog Topics: Auburn Bay, McKenzie Towne, ZEN Living