Holiday party season is here! And if you’ve ever shown up at someone’s door clutching a last-minute bottle of wine (hi, it’s me!), then you know the scramble is real. Well, let’s collectively make this year the year we plan ahead. (I say we because I need the accountability.) And in an effort to do just that, I polled the writers and editors of EatingWell to hear what gifts they gift their hosts and what they’ve received and coveted.
From small indulgences like Smoked Maldon Salt that Leah Goggins always keeps on hand to elevated essentials like The Salt Sphere that Liv Dansky loves, and even clever upgrades like this candle warmer that I plan to gift—each host gift is a little luxury that makes sure you will get invited back.
P.S. While you’re at it, add a few extra gift bags and some tissue paper into your cart now, so you’re covered when it’s time to wrap.
The Best Host Gifts
Brightland The Duo Gift Set California Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Amazon
“I would be elated if someone gave me a bottle of olive oil; it beats wine in my opinion!” says Danielle DeAngelis, associate editor. DeAngelis recommends Brightland’s gift set. “Not only is it a luxurious host gift, but it’s also great for that friend or family member who’s always hard to shop for.”
Handblown Glass Olive Oil Pourer
Uncommon Goods
“These handblown glass olive oil bottles are so pretty!” says Carolyn Malcoun, editorial director. As an alternative to the olive oil above, Malcoun recommends pairing your favorite olive oil with these bottles for a lovely host gift. Or simply give the bottles as a gift if your host is already an olive oil connoisseur.
Stasher Reusable Swedish Dishcloths, 3-Pack
Amazon
“My aunt always brings Swedish dish clothes when she comes to stay. I love that. It’s also my reminder to compost the old one,” says Penelope Wall, assistant general manager. This one from Stasher comes in a pack of three and, according to the brand, replaces up to 17 rolls of paper towels. Now that’s an excellent gift for the eco-conscious host!
Maldon Smoked Sea Salt Flakes
Amazon
Leah Goggins, editor, always keeps extra boxes of Maldon Smoked Sea Salt on hand. “It’s an easy thing to add to a host gift! I usually pair with a bottle of olive oil or even some homemade cookie dough that they can keep in the freezer for an effortless dessert.”
Marycele Candle Warmer Lamp
Amazon
While a candle is always a solid host gift, a candle warmer lamp is a thoughtful upgrade that feels both practical and luxurious. I spotted this one on a friend’s kitchen counter and had to get one for myself. Pro tip: You can use it to soften cold butter, too!
Microplane Classic Zester Grater
Amazon
A microplane is a go-to host gift for Goggins. “Even if your host already has one, I can attest that having a spare or two can be great when you’re using them often. I use mine for everything—hard cheese, citrus, garlic, etc.—and it’s so helpful to have around.”
Indulge: Delicious and Decadent Dishes to Enjoy and Share
Amazon
“I feel like cookbooks are something we typically wouldn’t buy, but cooks love them,” says DeAngelis. “I would personalize based on their cuisine preferences or chefs they love, but my personal favorite from recent years has been Valerie Bertinelli’s Indulge. It’s full of practical, easy recipes for both hosting and weeknight meals.”
The Salt Sphere
Material Kitchen
Liv Dansky, writer, recommends this salt sphere. “Everyone comments on it when they come over!” Dansky says. It’s also practical, she adds: “The top has a swiveling magnetic lid that’s easy to open and close with one hand while stirring. The fluted bottom is also great for holding finishing salts or pepper.”
Fresh Paperwhites in Wood Planter
Williams Sonoma
Wall also recommends paperwhites, and specifically potted ones. “Potted paperwhites are such a lovely gift, and your host won’t have to go on the hunt for a vase.” Or consider an amaryllis. Wall likes this double Candy Cane Amaryllis from Harry & David.
Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash
Nordstrom
Everyone loves a luxurious hand soap or hand lotion. I like to put mine in the hall bathroom that guests use and next to the kitchen sink so I can treat myself. I recently discovered this hand soap brand and loved it immediately! The scent is delicious (and not too fragrant!), but the addition of finely milled pumice for a gentle exfoliation is my absolute favorite part! That said, if you don’t want any exfoliation, the Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash is equally as indulgent.
Giusti Italian Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
Amazon
A friend gifted Goggins a small set of Giuseppe Giusti balsamic vinegars last year. “I was stunned by how delicious they all were. The absolute best was the red label, which has this dreamy, syrupy quality that makes everything taste better.”
The Festive Icon Juice Glass
Anthropologie
A couple of years ago, I was given a holiday mug as a host gift, and now it’s my favorite item to give. Here’s why: it’s a fun, festive addition to the holiday season, but is something I wouldn’t ordinarily buy for myself. Anthropologie is my first stop for holiday glasses and mugs because they always have a fun, unique and varied selection.
