Even the one that “has everything”
We at BCP know what it’s like being a guest (scrambling to figure out what to bring) and what it’s like being the host, receiving said gifts. Anything is appreciated, but, there’s a special joy in getting something you really want/love/won’t re-gift.
Note: Since we first published this post, some things have changed, which is why we knew it was due for an update. One, people who host often already have too many diffusers and perhaps a match cloche (or more). These pretty items which were fresh, practical, and new a couple years ago (and at a good price point too) might not be as appreciated as they once were. So, we’re taking them off the list.
For more ideas, you might want to see this list of affordable hostess gifts and see this post on being a good guest! If you’re coming for Yom Tov, rather than just a meal like you might during the year, and want to bring something more significant, there are some new ideas below.
Food
* Bringing a salad you prepared or a pie is always appreciated and enjoyed.
* We also love jerky platters (there are many companies who prepare them) because it’s an easy addition to any meal.
* A store bought dessert (something good and wanted!) is always a great option too.
Gifts
One of our all-time favorites is certainly the Scentify home diffuser, it’s so different (not the typical salad bowl) and luxurious. Your guest will remember you long after you left, and they will enjoy a refreshing fragrance in their home for a long time. This is the perfect gift for the woman who has everything. But, please, first make sure that she doesn’t already have it! We’ve taken Nest diffusers and others like it off the list, but this one stays on the list because it’s discreet, practical, and you don’t need to find a place to put it.
Monogrammed Napkins & Napkin Holder
These monogrammed napkins are a great touch for a great price. Gift them along with this acrylic napkin holder for a more finished look. It’s a convenient item for your host to put in the bathroom whenever she has guests, or to use at the table.
The Sferra Throw
These throws can go on any couch, chair or bed. It’s an essential that is always well appreciated. In most houses, people fight over the throws and most people can use another one! Try to get one that matches the decor.
The Samson Door Mat
Another amazing gift is this classic doormat which we personally use and enjoy. It will not get ruined, even after years of use. Pick the initials of the family you are staying by, and you are done.
Jo Malone Products
You can never go wrong with a nice Jo Malone hand and body wash. It feels luxurious and is probably something they might not buy for themselves.
The Waterdale Havdalah Table
This is one that we particularly like right now and is perfectly giftable. Both the Ribbed Havdalah Candle and the Bubble Candle are both different and special.
Adorn Tablecloths
If you’re staying for Yom Tov, a tablecloth is a perfect gift. We love the selection at Adorn Your Table.
Aura and Belle Napkin Rings
Napkin rings are something hostesses would love to use to set their table, but might not be an item they bought for themselves. Try to choose something which matches their table (easier to know if it’s someone who hosts you often).
For the Kids: Games!
If your host has small children, they will be very touched if you show up with something for them too. It doesn’t need to be expensive at all. Games are perfect! (Take note of the ages of your hostess’s children to buy something they will enjoy!). For more of our favorite games, see this post on our favorite Board Games and this post on Single Player Games which kids really love.
This game of Slapzi is hours of fun. Same goes with this Card Game called Skyjo, it will keep the children entertained for hours.
For the Kids: Books!
Kids always love new books, and parents love when their children have something new to read without having to take a trip to the store or library. It’s productive, it gives some nice quiet time, and something exciting and fresh to do during the downtime when mom might be busy. If your hostess isn’t the time to enjoy one of the above, books for the kids will do it, just make sure that you choose appropriate items for the ages/values of the family so you can be sure it’s really appreciated and enjoyed.
And last but not least, perfect for children ages 7 to 13, the Between Carpools Journal. You will be a very popular guest with this gift!
So many diffuser and other scented gifts! Beware many people have allergies and can’t tolerate these products. Someone gave my newlywed daughter one of these. I told her to tell her husband it’s “Shvigger Repellent” because they keep me away ????
I agree. I host a lot and I hate them. Scents are very personal and everyone has their own taste. Make sure it’s returnable if you plan to give it. In my book any gift that can’t be exchanged is not a good gift
I’m wondering , what is this scentify diffusser? I’ve heard about it and read about it but wondering if it’s the same junk as all diffuesers?
It’s better than all the other diffusers!
Please no more diffusers!!!!!! I have a huuuge collection of them. Please know that people that host frequently most likely have an abundance of them. I know they look classy and gifty, but we much prefer something homemade or a small food gift. Any other gift usually ends up being given away.
A note about guests bringing food: please let you hostess know in advance what you’ll be bringing. I love when my guests offer to make something, it’s just annoying when I don’t know what it is, and then we end up with doubles.
Cute
I really like the defusers
Not everyone has them and I think it’s a great present for everyone
I host a lot of seminary girls/ bochurim and as of recently if they ask what they can bring I’ve been telling them to bring dips! It’s easy for them to pick up a few store bought dips and actually takes something off of my plate! And they get to pick out things they like. (I still have chummus and maybe 1-2 other basic ones on hand usually.)
If they don’t offer I assume they’ll bring a dessert or wine. I still make dessert but keep it light (like fruit and cookies or something like that.)
That’s nice
These diffusers are everywhere! This is a great and wonderful list of awesome gifts but please stop buying your friends and family these toxic, endocrine disrupting and harmful scents. Left and right people are dealing with all kinds of issues unaware that it might just be as simple as tossing their fragrances.