Do I Bring a Gift? Party Etiquette Host/Hostess Gift Ideas

It is customary in my culture to never enter a house empty handed. Whether it is a box of candy, chocolate bar or bottle of wine, we make sure we have something for the head of the household. However, not everyone may think this is the way it should be. I understand. On the other hand, what if you were invited to a party, say a surprise birthday party in honor of someone else at someone's house, do you get something only for the guest of honor, for the host or both? Answer: BOTH.

Why both you may ask? Obviously, you would get something for the guest of honor. On the other hand, the person hosting the party is providing their home, time and plain hosting, a gift shows that appreciation. Ultimately, it is just not proper etiquette to enter someone's house emptyhanded.

So what kind of gift of "appreciation" do you bring for the host or hostess? Here are a couple of ideas for the next time you are invited to a party in someone's honor, or maybe you are just invited over someone's house:

1. Box of chocolates. There are many different kinds/brands of chocolates that you can buy. However, don't run to your nearest Walgreen's or CVS for a quick purchase. Instead, be mindful of what the box of chocolates may imply when you give them to the host. You can never go wrong with Godiva chocolates, Ferraro Rocher, or some exotic foreign concoction. Websites like 1-800-Flowers make it easy for us to select the perfect hostess gift because not only do they sell flowers, but also a variety of chocolates from around the world!

2. Bottle of wine. A bottle of red, white, rose, or whatever kind is another perfect gift for both the host and hostess. This article in VinePair will help make your decision of what kind to bring much easier. Salute!

3. Flowers. Everyone enjoys getting flowers! It's that one thing that many of us seldom splurge on. Receiving flowers brightens anyone's day. A bouquet of beautiful roses or a seasonal bunch is the perfect gift for your host. Kroger has a beautiful selection and great prices. Another place to purchase a beautiful bunch of flowers or arrangement is Sam's Club.

4. Gift Basket. We may think that gift baskets are only available during the holidays. Fortunately, they are available year round! Your local specialty grocery store usually has them available for purchase. If they don't, they can be ordered to fit your taste. Try places like Whole Foods and Kroger for gift basket arrangements.

Whatever the occasion you are invited to, make sure that you follow proper guest etiquette by bringing a gift for the host or hostess. In deciding what to bring, make sure it looks perfect and stylish when you give it to them. Nothing says "thank you" like a gift that's wrapped or presented in perfection. Remember to have fun, be entertaining and be stylish!