Planning a big affair or having a family holiday gathering can be a very hectic thing to do! There is so much to consider when hosting the party, and when it is in a holiday season, most likely this may involve a large family dinner as well!
If you are a guest of family or friend how can you say thanks? Simply by bringing a hostess/host gift!
A hostess gift is a gesture of appreciation; a small token that is given to say thank you for all the hard work and for your effort in all that the host has done to make the event happen. Giving a hostess gift also means that you have good manners as well.
A hostess gift need not be an overpowering or gaudy gift. In fact, the simpler the gift is the better. If one gives a gift that is showy or gigantic, it actually “takes” away the importance of the host/hostess and brings light to you the invited guest and that would be a “no-no” and in poor taste. And frankly, that would be of poor etiquette. Another point to take into consideration: do not expect your host to “open” gift in front of you or other guests (though host/hostess may), do not expect him/her to display, use or serve your gift. Your gift should be one that is shared in private. This ensures that others guests, even if family members, do not become embarrassed if they did not bring a hostess gift as well.
Making a tea basket/bag is a great easy, and thoughtful gift. One can make this as expensive or as cost-efficient as possible and still be proud to give this gift.
If you personally know your host/hostess well you can tailor his/her hostess gift to them by including some of their most favorite tea items. If you don’t personally know the host/hostess well, the gift will be very appreciated with my suggested gift creations.
If your host/hostess is a green tea lover and a mystery book reader~ well that’s easy isn’t it? One can purchase some boxed green tea bags and the latest mystery book right off the best seller list! Simply wrap both together with a decorative bow! Be sure to include either a handwritten note of thanks, or a thank you card.
Now if the host/hostess is a true tea lover and you know this, using a small colorful gift bag, fill with little and inexpensive tea items. One could include box of favorite tea (or holiday type tea), a tea cup, and tea towel. Tie a thank you note on the handle or if using loose tea hang an infuser/tea ball on the handle. Exquisite!
One can include edibles, or homemade items too. How about a simple pound cake wrapped in clear wrap and tied with a bow, or favorite stack of cookies wrapped in clear wrap and tied off with a bow. Just wonderful!
Your host/hostess will feel much appreciated, and it will be easy to see that you will be the first on the next party’s guest list!
