The round of holiday parties are about to begin. Would you like to be invited back next year?
Hosting a party takes time, effort and money. At the very least, the floors have been swept, the bathroom cleaned, and the kitchen counters wiped off. Food of some sort has been purchased and prepared, there will be beverages available, and of course, the inevitable clean-up. As a guest, arriving with a small gift is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation.
1. Flowers, while lovely, can be a distraction as they cause the host to stop in mid-activity, hunt up a vase, trim the ends and do the arranging. Flowers pre-arranged in a vase are a better choice, as is a small plant.
2. A bottle of wine, liquor or delicious chocolates are always nice options if you know your host enjoys these items. Don't expect that they will be opened up and served at the party; they were brought for the host.
3. A holiday ornament or pretty/fun napkins tied with a beautiful ribbon are other possibilities. Muffins for breakfast the next morning, assorted teas or coffees, hot cocoa mix, a fragrant candle, imported olive oil, unique jams or chutneys are also items to consider.
4. If it is a casual get-together, food may be welcome for the event itself. Coordinate this with the host in advance and then be sure to bring the agreed upon dish. Changing your mind at the last minute may throw off the balance of the menu the host has in mind.
5. Always include a small tag with your gift. Party hosts have a number of things to think about and remembering who brought what can be difficult.
6. A phone call, or better yet, a handwritten note the day after the party expressing your thanks for the festivities and fun is always appreciated.
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