Making Etiquette Easy: Host/Hostess Gifts

Photo from Dean & Deluca

When people open up their homes to host business or social events, it’s a welcoming gesture for you to share in the food, friends, and environment at their gracious expense. It’s important to remember that a small thoughtful gesture goes a long way. Here are a few tips on giving host/hostess gifts to remember year-round:

• If an event is being hosted in someone’s home, always bring a gift. You do not need to bring a host/hostess gift if an event is being held at a hotel, restaurant, etc, or if the corporation is sponsoring the event.
• Gifts are usually given right at the doorway to the host who is welcoming guests. If the host isn’t at the doorway, be sure to find them and give it to them personally.
• If you are attending a home event with your spouse or a date, only one gift is needed. If you are coming single, regardless of whether you are a male or a female, one small gift is appropriate.
• Gifts for both men and women include: flowers, chocolates, a bottle of wine, candles, gift baskets, stationary, dry recipe mixes, or gift cards

Coming with something in-hand means you appreciate all the work the host/hostess has done to assure a lovely event. And, it helps to keep you on the invite list next time.

Making Etiquette Easy,

Susan K. Medina