Hostess Gifts

Yesterday I attended a Junior League general meeting at the home of a sustainer (AKA, long-time member). It was during lunch, so I was able to get away from the office for a bit and spend some time in yet another gorgeous home. As a thank-you to the hostess, the meeting planners provided her with a small gift. So, it got me thinking about what makes a good hostess gift, especially during the holidays. Then, when thumbing through the latest Pottery Barn catalog last night, I came across several good suggestions.

If you're bringing a bottle of wine, why not consider a decorative stopper to go with it? Pottery Barn's new serving sets with engraving add a nice touch to a buffet and table setting and are of heirloom quality. You may consider a personalized gift (if you have time to plan in advance), featuring the host or hostess's monogram, such as soaps or a lovely julep cup with flowers. (If bringing flowers, have them cut and already displayed in the julep cup or a vase, rather than a loose bouquet. That way, the hostess doesn't have to stop what she's doing to cut and arrange flowers.)
Images courtesy of Pottery Barn

P.S. - Thanks to everyone for your kind comments about our dog, King. It's comforting to know I have such supportive readers/blog friends out there.