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The holiday season is finally here and I couldn’t be more excited! There’s just something about the warmth, togetherness and festive cheer that makes this time of year feel so special. I’m already counting down the days until I can visit my favorite people back home. :)
As a small way to show my gratitude to friends and family who open their homes to me, I love bringing a thoughtful gift for the host. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas or some other holiday gathering, arriving with a little something special is my way of saying “thank you” for all the effort they put into creating a memorable celebration.
So, today I’m thrilled to share a selection of gift ideas that I’ve carefully curated to be practical, beautiful and truly meaningful. (And when I say carefully curated, I mean really — after four full days of researching and putting this together, I’m excited to finally share it with you! So, if your friends need ideas, please feel free to pass this along!)
See below for 100 Holiday Gift Ideas for Hosts & Hostesses I'm loving in 2024.
Take your time to go through each category to see what suits your host best. Consider the theme of the event, their style, their hobbies, favorite food or drinks and of course, your budget. I've included a mix of affordable and premium items in this list in an attempt to provide something for everyone. Happy shopping!
STYLISH SERVEWARE
This first one is pretty obvious. Since your host is likely to be serving you, elevate the holiday gathering with stylish or festive serveware. Think beautiful platters, holiday-themed serving bowls, mugs, glasses or charcuterie boards. Opt for stylish white or neutral pieces if you're not sure of their design aesthetic, or for the more festive entertainer, choose pieces in timeless holiday colors like gold, silver, deep green and red. This thoughtful gifts not only add functionality but also a stylish touch.
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PERSONALIZED ITEMS
If you want to take it up a notch, adding personalization of your family member or friend’s name, initial or even a phrase or inside joke you share is a thoughtful detail that will remind your host of your appreciation every time he or she uses your gift. Some great hostess gift options for personalization are serving boards, aprons, coffee mugs, blankets and coasters, etc.
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PREMIUM TEA TOWELS OR KITCHEN LINENS
While I love these first few ideas, they can get pretty costly if you have several gatherings to attend. If that's the case, a set of high-quality cloth napkins or a beautifully printed holiday tea towel adds a functional and decorative element to your host's home. Look for linens made from natural fibers whenever possible and choose designs that match the host’s style - whether that be minimalist, refined or traditional holiday motifs.
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HOLIDAY COOKBOOKS
Since hosting typically revolves around food, a beautifully curated holiday cookbook makes a thoughtful gift for hosts who really enjoy cooking and baking. Choose a book that fits the host’s style, or food preferences - like one on traditional holiday dishes, or holiday cookies or vegan, keto or gluten-free cooking for the holidays, etc.
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SNACKS & CANDIES
If you’re a baker, homemade treats like holiday cookies, fudge or spiced nuts make a thoughtful and personal gift that is also fairly affordable. Wrap your creations with ribbon, decorative tins or reusable glass jars for a festive presentation.
If you’re not a baker or you simply don’t have time to make these yummy creations, then buy them! Opt for holiday flavors or packaging to stay with the theme. Here are some great options to consider.
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SCENTED CANDLES
You can also help your host or hostess set the mood with a beautiful candle that fills their home with a comforting, holiday-inspired scent. Look for elevated options that double as décor or consider eco-friendly options with soy wax and essential oils for a cleaner burn. Cinnamon, clove, orange, pomegranate, peppermint, vanilla, cedar and pine are holiday classics, but you can also consider your host’s favorite scent if you prefer more options.
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COZY THROW BLANKETS
Now that I'm in Florida, I rarely need a blanket, but I know Winter back home calls for warm and cozy textiles, making a throw blanket an ideal hostess gift for the holiday season. Look for blankets in neutral colors or classic holiday patterns - whichever suits your friend or family member’s design style is best.
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HOLIDAY FLAVORED DRINKS
What better way to cozy up with a blanket then to add a warm Christmas coffee, holiday themed tea or a gourmet hot chocolate. These drinks make delicious gifts that are perfect for Winter. You can find kits with artisanal chocolate shavings, mini marshmallows and festive toppings or you can create gift sets of your own by adding holiday mugs and sweet treats to encourage your host to take a moment to rest and relax during the busy holiday season.
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FAMILY-FRIENDLY BOARD GAMES
Playing games is one of of my favorite things to do when I get together with my loved ones. Look for interactive, family-friendly games like Telestrations, Pictionary, Cards Against Humanity (make sure to get the family version) or Christmas-themed games or trivia that the whole family can enjoy. Super fun!
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HOLIDAY PLANTS OR FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS
Let's face it, plants and flowers bring life into any space and make for an effortlessly beautiful gift. A festive poinsettia, floral arrangement or a small potted plants are wonderful holiday choices that add even more life to the season. Choose your hosts favorite plants or florals if you can, otherwise choose an arrangement in a color scheme that coordinates with their home or holiday decorations.
TIP: You can buy these items locally, but if you’re short on time, you can order arrangements from places like 1-800 Flowers and Teleflora. These are a great gift idea for faraway family and friends as well.
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FUNNY OR FESTIVE NAPKINS
One of my favorite hostess gifts to get and to give is a pack of funny, festive napkins. From quirky catch phrases to seasonal jokes, napkins are an affordable way to make guests smile. Look for napkins with holiday puns, playful graphics or cheerful patterns that reflect the host’s personality and style. Pair them with a bottle of the host’s favorite wine for a fun gift that will be truly appreciated.
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CURATED GIFT BOXES
Lastly, and I should say that I personally love putting together gifts for my friends and family to enjoy, but when time is a constraint a curated gift box is a great choice for holiday hosts. Look for boxes that will resonate with your hostess and that will also have a festive theme, such as a hot chocolate set or cozy self-care items like candles, teas or lotions. Curated gift boxes often have a luxury feel, making your hostess feel special.
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Well that's it my friends. I hope you find these holiday host and hostess gift ideas helpful and there's something in their that makes shopping easier for you this holiday season. Remember that choosing a thoughtful gift goes way beyond the present itself—it’s a way to show appreciation for the special people in your life that took the time and effort to host you at their special gathering.
I'm sending you and your loved ones happy vibes for a festive season filled with fun, laughter and holiday cheer.
Happy Holidays!
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As always, thanks for reading and happy holiday shopping!
Certified Interior Decorator | Virtual Interior Designer
Orangetree Interiors
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