Hostess Gifts: No #ads here, just well-received ideas.
As the saying goes, “Never go empty-handed.” Whether it be a housewarming, a birthday party or just a little backyard BBQ – it’s not potluck, but you don’t want to show up without anything and you are literally on your way. Here are some on the run suggestions that are easily accessible without breaking the bank:
1. Liquor store – There are some great wines for $10 or less; some of my faves are:
- Gnarly Head (Pinot Noir)
- Bolla (Chianti)
- 19 Crimes (Rose)
- Laurent Miquel (Rose)
- Hob Nob (Red)
Better yet, support NY wineries! You might find yourself in the $10 to $20 range, but nonetheless – they are delicious. Here are some of my go-tos:
- Thirsty Owl (Traminette)
- Brotherhood (Premium Dry Rose)
- Bully Hill (Pinot Grigio) PRO TIP – Pair with ice, a can of seltzer and some fresh fruit for the BEST SPRITZER!
- Saratoga Winery (No Way Rose)
- Thousand Islands Winery (Chardonnay)
2. Dollar Store or Discount Store – I have put some great little baskets together in the parking lot of a dollar store. I am a sucker for a good theme, so my gift would look something like this for less than $15:
- Italian Night – Box of spaghetti, spaghetti server, kitchen towels, and salt/pepper/parmesan shakers, presented in a strainer/collander.
- Kid’s Club – If they have kids forget about the host, you’ll win points by bringing goodies to keep the kiddos busy! Coloring books, crayons, colored pencils, and stickers in a gift bag go a long way.
- Kiss the Cook – Five Below always has a good selection of cookbooks. Add some wooden spoons or measuring cups tied together with bright colored ribbon.
- Game Night – Either a family or adult game and some sweet and salty snacks. Again, you can usually count on Five Below.
- Nosh Basket – Grab a nice basket and then head over to the grocery store for some snack items.
3. Grocery Store – Take that basket you bought at the Dollar Store/Discount Store and fill it with some noms. (PRO TIP – If you’re really short on time and don’t want to make two trips, most grocery stores have giftbags in their card aisle.)
- For the Beer Lover – 6 pack of their favorite beer and peanuts/nuts
- I Love Bread – Olive oil, balsamic vinegar and a baguette
- Cheese Please – Gourmet cheeses (usually in the deli section), fancy crackers or a baguette, and spread, such as tapenade or fruit paste. PRO TIP – Bleu cheese, French baguette, and Nutella. I know it sounds like a weird combination, but I PROMISE YOU, if you like cheese and chocolate you will NOT be disappointed.
- Cookie Monster – Everyone enjoys cookies and milk! (One of my favorites is Battenkill Creamery out of Greenwich, NY.)
- A lot of grocery stores have a ‘local’ section; you can never fail with some locally-made hand soap and a card.
