Host and Hostess Gifts

Every day we're getting closer and closer to the flood of holiday parties.  While a bottle of good wine or a bouquet of flowers are always thoughtful gifts to take the host and/or hostess, sometimes it's nice to give something a little more unique that will last beyond a week.  This season, I've seen lots of great host/hostess gifts that I thought I'd organize together into one post.  Here are 10 fun items that made me smile:

This beautiful Castle Key Bottle Opener from Anthropologie ($12) is the perfect item to take for a party.  Sure to get a ton of use over the holidays, this key may even get a showcase spot on the counter throughout the year.  The really cool part, is that the functionality of it is almost disguised.

L'Occitane has crafted some beautiful limited-edition tubes that are filled with the most wonderful shea butter hand creme.  The design on the packaging is inspired by colorful African fabrics.  You can select from a variety of scents, including desert rose and hibiscus flower.  A duo pack with lip balm and hand creme is $19.

These measuring cups, $15 from Fred Flare, are simply adorable.  What a wonderful way to share a little love and appreciation for the hostess!

For the gracious host, a kitschy Handlebar Mustache Corkscrew ($15) is sure to be the life of the party.  A little sophisticated and a little goofy all at once - just like the host I'm sure! 

I love this dish towel from Anthropologie ($18).  It's sure to brighten up any kitchen with a splash of color and whimsy.

These adorable Babushkups Nesting Glasses ($20) from Fred Flare are such fun!  How I'd love to see them smiling from some gorgeous open shelving.  And, of course they stack (or nest) one inside the other...a must!

Another fun one for the host...a solid-wood star puzzle, only $12 from Monkey Podgames.  Sure to be a conversation starter, it may even steal the show at the Christmas party.  See how many people can solve the puzzle after a few cocktails!

The perfect butter dish for a nice sit-down dinner, this Painted Amaryllis Butter Dish beauty is from Anthropologie ($16).  It's dishwasher and microwave safe - a total plus in my book!

These white cake lace coasters ($19) from Gretel Home are gorgeous (and rubber!) and would do a fine job protecting the hostess' brand new wood dining table from those stubborn drink rings.  They come in black, key lime green, and baby pink as well.

Last, and certainly not least, these super cute glass owl ornaments from Fred Flare come in a pack of 3 for $26. Buy a box to have around for those parties that suddenly pop up, and take one to your hostess with a cute bow tied around it.  Just saying, if I got one of these it may end up staying out all year round...

Hope you've found some good ideas from these fun items.  Remember, a little creativity in host/hostess gifts makes them all the more thoughtful!  -Kristen