Small, Inexpensive Hostess Gifts
Tuesday, October 5, 2010 at 07:00AM Dear You + ME*
I have a couple of upcoming weekend trips to visit friends, and I'm having trouble coming up with host/hostess gifts. I'm thinking homemade and food might be the ways to go, mainly because funds are short (I'm a student) and most of these folks don't really need more 'stuff'. The gift also needs to be able to make it through airport security and fit in my carry-on. So, what to make? I mean, I visit some of these people a couples times a year; my standard zucchini/pumpkin bread is becoming less and less impressive, no matter how pretty the wrapping.
Thanks,
M.
Dear M.,
As evidenced by how many folks ask about this, and how much we write about this topic (see here and here), this is a question that everyone has. However, a student budget (from what we remember from grad school, the student budget = trying to barter for goods and services using old books) and space restraints can make this a particularly hairy question. Here are a few low-cost ideas that don't skimp on the thoughtfulness.
First, your idea about something edible is spot-on. How about some truffles? There are tons of recipes floating around, and they're fairly easy to make. And, they're small and easy to pack. Just remember not to leave your carry-on near any heating vents or in the sun. Cookies are always appreciated; Holly over at 101 Cookbooks made some Limoncello Macaroons to take to visit friends. I would be more than happy to see them show up on my doorstep.
Photo books are a low-cost, high-impact gift. As a thank-you present after, you could take pictures throughout your visit, and then create a book using iPhoto or one of the other online book-making services like blurb.com, shown above, and have it sent to their house. If you're a repeat visitor, you could use all of the photos you've taken so far at their house, and present the book to your hosts upon arrival.
I also love the idea of bringing a little souvenir from, or something representing, the place where you live. If I were off to visit friends, I might bring them this pretty little print. If you're into doing things yourself, you could paint, collage, photograph, or draw a that is evocative of your city.
We hope these suggestions help; be sure to let us know how it goes!
xo,
ME*
P.S. The Pretty Mommy recipe exchange is on! Head on over to A Place to Share for Tori's Butternut Squash, Sage, and White Bean Soup recipe!
P.P.S. If you, gentle readers, have a question that you would like You + ME* to tackle, drop us a line at youplusmestyling{at}gmail{dot}com.
Reader Comments (1)
A belated thank you for the shout out! These are great ideas.
Happy to have found your blog...LOVING this exchange.