Going to a party? Here's how to choose the best gift for your host

by Jackie Davis 03/09/2025

Whether you’re going to a formal dinner party or a casual backyard BBQ, it’s a good idea to bring a gift for the host. While not required, a gift shows the host your appreciation for their time and energy. However, it’s not always so easy to know what to bring.

Here are some quick tips for party host gift ideas:

Thoughtful gift ideas

Even with these tried-and-true gift options, it’s crucial to consider whether they are the right choice for your particular party host. For example, if you know the hosts have pets or young children, flowers can be more of a hazard than you intend. When gifting candy or cookies, note any dietary limitations or allergens you might not be aware of. A thoughtful gift goes a long way, regardless of the price tag.

Classic gift ideas

Dinner parties come in all forms, but your host will appreciate an appropriate gift. Some classic gift ideas include flower bouquets and boxes of candy or cookies. If you bring a gift of food or drink, make sure it’s packaged to last - unless it’s a potluck party, don’t expect the gift to be served right then and there.

Holiday party gifts

For holiday parties, it helps to stay with the overall theme of the holiday season. Seasonal treats and beverages are good options, as are small holiday-related trinkets or decor. Some other ideas include decorative and useful items like coasters, tea towels and serving platters.

House-warming party gifts

House-warming parties provide an opportunity to indulge your inner interior designer. For example, consider decorative dishes or bath towels, artisan candles, coffee table books or even a small piece of modern art. Other great gift ideas for house-warming include more practical items for the host’s home, such as gardening tools or kitchen accessories.

Choosing the right gift might seem like a difficult task, but it doesn’t have to be. Keep these tips and ideas in mind the next time you’re searching for the perfect gift to bring to a party.

About the Author
Author

Jackie Davis

Welcome to Jackie Davis and Company. If you have navigated this far, we thank you and would like to share how we differ from other teams and agents. We work tirelessly and are committed to providing 100% customer satisfaction. We recognize, listen, value, and appreciate your goals as you move towards listing or selling your home. As Listing Agents we continuously integrate new and advanced technology to promote your biggest asset. Our strong negotiation skills are invaluable for getting you the best price for your home. As the Buyer's Agent we pride ourselves on being fully educated in our local markets. While focusing on integrity and honesty we will provide you with the highest level of professionalism and analysis. We are proud that this hard work has earned us recognition as top 1% both company and state wide in the industry. Achievements * 1st Quarter 2017 Leading Sales in Fairfield * 2017 February Leading Sales Team * 2017 March Leading Sales Team * Chairman's Elite representing the Top 1% Agent at William Raveis Nationwide & Fairfield County * Over $45 million Listed & Sold in 2016 * Over $30 million Listed & Sold in 2015 * 99% List to Sales Ratio (higher than market average) * 75 Average Days on Market (less than market average) * Jackie Davis Promoted to Sales Vice President 2016 * Raveis Award of Excellence every year * Exceptional Customer Service Award every year * Top Units Sold Team October 2016 * Top Customer Service October 2016 * Top Mortgage Support September 2016 * Top Selling Team January 2016 * Top Mortgage Support August 2015 * Top Selling Team Feb 2014 * Top Producing Team Jan 2014 * Top Selling Team Dec 2013 * Top Selling Team Nov 2013 * Top Producing Team Nov 2013 Professional Specialty Innovative Marketing and Technology equals proven sales. Our team of licensed professionals is ready to serve. We handle: Sellers & Buyers Exceptional Properties Investors Waterfront & Beach Area Homes Country & Equestrian Properties New Construction & Land Relocation Professional Association National Association of Realtors Connecticut Association of Realtors Greater Fairfield Board of Realtors Consolidated Multiple Listing Service Community Involvement PTA committee member for past 14 years from elementary through high school PTA Board Member for 4 years Shoff Darby Advisory Scholarship Board member past 5 years Committee member for Cancer Care of Norwalk past 10 years Volunteer Habitat for Humanity Operation Hope coordinator for elementary and middle schools, last 3 years Volunteer for a variety of town sports teams, that my daughters participate in The County Assemblies Board Member The b-Cause Foundation Board Member- a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate children to recognize neighbors in need in our local community. Wakeman Boys & Girls Club- Fundraising Committee Member Committee Member for Cancer Couch Fundraiser the Cancer Beat 2016 Near and Far Aid Volunteer Education BA from Merrimack College Personal Fairfield resident for 39 years Currently reside in Fairfield Beach Area Married 27 years Four daughters currently in & have graduated Fairfield Public School system Areas Covered Fairfield Southport Westport Weston Norwalk Trumbull Easton Stratford Shelton Milford Stamford Bridgeport