Don’t know what to bring your hostess (even the ones that “have everything”)? These ideas will help.
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:
What’s appropriate for a hostess gift frequently changes. One, people who host often already have too many diffusers and match cloches. 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, it’s best to avoid gifting these items.
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.
Some Notes *On Food:
When it comes to bringing food, let your hostess know ahead that it’s coming. That way, she can cross “salad” or “dessert” off her list. If she already prepared it and you show up right before Yom Tov with an item she already has, it’s not as helpful. Also, if it’s an item that takes up a lot of fridge space, make sure she has space. Refrigerators can be very full for Yom Tov and she might not have room for that large fruit platter. A salad, a jerky platter, or a store-bought dessert (something that everyone likes, not something commercial) are all great options.
Some Notes *On Flowers:
As noted in on being a good guest, NEVER EVER walk into your hostesses home shortly before Shabbos or Yom Tov with fresh flowers that need to be cut and arranged. If you are bringing flowers, it’s nice if your hostess knows ahead of time so she can skip that errand herself (or, you can ask her what colors coordinate with her table). Bring them the day before, or earlier in the day, bonus if they already cut and arranged in a vase. When in doubt, a potted orchid is always classy and can be set down anywhere.
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