Has the first holiday party invitation dropped in your inbox?
If plans for an annual cocktail party with friends or a formal dinner with colleagues is taking shape, a few thoughtful host and hostess gifts will be a lifesaver come December.
With minimal planning, there’s no mad rush to get out the door on party night (and no squeezing into a crowded liquor store, trying to remember if the party host loves or hates Merlot).
In the coming weeks, be sure to check in to find shoppable gift guides for those who need help making a list (and checking it twice). All ages, personality types and price points will be covered, from babies to tweens to seniors.
CHRISTMAS-THEMED GIFTS
A memorable gift starts with a thoughtful note — these delicate paper cut cards from a Toronto-based shop on Etsy can be purchased in a three-pack.
For a gift that will be used every year, look for decor accessories like these pretty monogram snow globe ornaments, a “Deck The Halls” dishtowel or a gingerbread house doormat, all from Anthropolgie.
H&M has some modern holiday decor that looks expensive (but it’s all under $20), like these glittery gold candy canes (pictured), white porcelain trees and classic tall candlesticks.
CANDLES, CANDLES, CANDLES
Candles are a classic gift, so to avoid getting lost in the shuffle, give one that is meant to be displayed, like a luxe Voluspa three-wick candy cane tin from Nordstrom, a fresh Christmas tree from H&M, or this chic two-storey pink townhouse (pictured) from Anthropologie.
This soy wax maple syrup candle is a holiday staple at Roots. The retro tin and warm scent feel rustic (without having to chop wood or build a fire).
DINNER PARTY GIFT IDEAS
Any host who manages to put together a dinner party without breaking a sweat will make use of this striped apron from H&M. It looks like one used in a professional kitchen. The cotton/linen blend will soften with washing and lots of wear.
Since they are feeding you, why not return the favour? For a host who leans toward wellness and superfoods, this taster pack of raw honey from Calgary-based line Drizzle (pictured) is a unique token of appreciation. And for the friend who douses all their meals in hot sauce, this mixer pack of The Good Hurt Fuego (with a range of heat options from chipotle to ghost pepper) is a great test for their taste buds. Both are available on Amazon.
TOAST THE HOST
Give them something to raise a glass with, like this set of coupe glasses for martinis and cocktails. (And don’t forget the coasters — this whimsical winter animals set make for a cute companion gift.)
If they roll out the cocktail cart for a party, help them restock with a seasonally appropriate six-piece cocktail mixer set, cocktail nuts and this set of copper Moscow Mule mugs (that will probably get cracked open right on the spot).
