If you keep a little stockpile of small gifts to give on the
go, you may have depleted your stash with holiday parties and opportunities to
take a little something as a gesture of thanks for your hostess. Now is a good time to keep an eye out when
you’re out and about or shopping online to gather a few giftable items to have
on hand when a dinner invite or impromptu party calls for a token tagalong.
Wooden kitchen utensils with painted handles are a trending
kitchen accessory. You can find some
variety with everyday designers on sites like Etsy.com. They’re simple, pretty, and add a fitting
display of thanks when you’re invited to a dinner. Patterned or monogrammed coasters are a nice
hostess gift that offer form and function.
A patterned tray, like a printed acrylic or porcelain serving tray with
a graphic, is something any hostess can put to good use at her next function. A set of appetizer plates, both plain and
themed, or a set of etched glasses, pretty tumblers, or cheese knives are all
pieces that can be welcome additions to most any kitchen.
Outside the kitchen, there are a variety of options for
small gifts. A trinket dish can hold
jewelry or loose change and look good while doing it. A stackable set of decorative boxes can be
put on display and used for storage, too.
The same goes for a ceramic bowl or glass vase with an interesting
shape. A picture frame with a note of
thanks as a placeholder in the glass is a thoughtful touch when you’ve been
included in a special event you’ve looked forward to attending. Scented candles can’t steer you wrong when
you choose neutral scents like lavender and vanilla or something mild and
woodsy. A set of 2 or 4 guest towels for
the bathroom might be put on display as soon as you gift them.
If you see a party, shower, or other event on your
calendar’s horizon this spring and have more prep time, you can look into more
personal options. Taking something to be
monogrammed shows you put some special thought in ahead of time. Finding that great item that really suits
your hostess or has a familiar meaning between the two of you – like a printed
makeup pouch, colorful scarf, or themed wine stopper - also would be a welcome
surprise when you arrive.
It’s easy to see neat finds when we shop that catch our eye
but may not immediately bring a specific need to mind. But gathering a few of these together to
stock up for when a gift giving opportunity arises, whether planned or out of
the blue, allows you to be prepared and share your design eye with a gracious
hostess ready to welcome you and your little treasure into their home.
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star January 25th.
