Real Food Tips: 10 Unique Hostess Gifts

As you hop from party to party this month I do think it’s nice to bring along a little something extra for the party host – entertaining is a lot of work after all! And you could always resort to that good o’l bottle of wine (or champagne – ooolala), but if you like to stand out and do things your own way here are some ideas for more creative hostess gifts. I know I’d love to be given any one of these (although I’ve certainly never turned away a bottle of wine either – ha)! :)

1. Apple Cider + Mulling Spices
   Found at most any grocery store (and also online) this time of year, mulling spices not only make your house smell fabulous, but they transform plain old apple cider (or juice) into an extra special warm drink.
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2. Make Your Own Granola Kit (layered in a jar)
   I tend to give out granola I’ve already made, but gifts layered in a cute little jar are always fun, too. Plus it’s hard to beat that sense of accomplishment for the one who actually makes it. Don’t forget to attach a recipe card.
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3. Stovetop Potpourri
   Another way to add a festive aroma to your home is with homemade stovetop potpourri. I’m sure there are a million combinations that will work beautifully, but I happen to like this one from I Heart Naptime – and look how pretty some of the colors are!
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4. Rosemary Tree
   I love nothing more than a practical gift and this is one you can plant in your yard and eat after the holiday is over! What a great way to promote cooking fresh. (FYI – I’ve seen these for sale at Trader Joe’s and other grocery stores.)
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5. Prosecco Cocktail Set
   Now if you really want to kick things up a notch then this is the way to do it. Prosecco is all the rage right now so how about pairing it with a pretty juice and directions for making an easy and fun drink? The sign on this one reads “Mix together Prosecco and pomegranate juice for a festive cocktail!”
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6. Pretty Cheese Board/Knives
   If you’re going to someone’s house for a party, chances are they like to entertain! So they’d surely love a fun new piece to add to their collection. I especially love this slate cheese board that allows you to write directly on the board with chalk so you can label the cheese that’s being served.
   
7. Tortilla Making Kit
   This little kit is another good one for someone who likes to entertain (and presumably cook) that they might not already own. You’ll need a tortilla press and masa harina – and if you really want to go all out a tortilla warmer as well. It does take a little practice, but once you get the hang of it nothing beats homemade tortillas!
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8. Homemade Jam or Pimento Cheese (or other homemade food in a jar)
   Let’s face it, jars make most things look cute. And what a nice gesture to give your hostess something deliciously homemade (and real) to snack on after all that entertaining.
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9. Cinnamon Grater
   I’ve mentioned this one before as a gift for someone on your list, but this would be great for a party host as well. And again right up the alley of someone who likes to entertain/cook and also such a unique gift they likely don’t already own one! The difference in taste between fresh cinnamon and the store bought grated stuff will surely blow your mind.
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10. (Oldie But Goodie): Homemade Vanilla Extract
    If you’ve been a long time reader you know how I love giving out homemade vanilla extract this time of year. But did you see the new bottles and chalkboard labels I found for this most recent batch (both from the craft store)? I love how they turned out and have really enjoyed giving them out to several party hosts already so far – one of whom said, “I just ran out from the last bottle you gave me and was hoping you’d be bringing some!” Score :)
    

I hope these suggestions help, and I’d love to hear your unique hostess gift ideas in the comments! For more fun ideas be sure to check out my “12 Homemade Holiday Gifts (that aren’t cookies!)” post.