The Best Hostess Gifts for Summer Parties, Stays and Visits.

Everyone has a friend who’s the hostess with the most-ess. Whether it’s a party or a weekend visit, it’s a good gesture (and proper etiquette) to come armed with a hostess gift. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but a small token of appreciation is always a nice way to say thank you for the hospitality. Bonus points if you wrap it — or at least stick it in a cute gift bag.

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Let’s talk about what you shouldn’t bring. There are a few faux pas to keep in mind when selecting a hostess gift. For one, don’t bring food unless you’re asked, unless the food is something like a box of chocolates that can be enjoyed later. And if you bring wine, don’t expect it to be served that night — your host may already have chosen the wine for the evening. If the party is very fancy, you don’t need to bring a gift at all (especially if you don’t know the host well).

A bottle of wine and flowers are always nice ideas in a pinch, but we think you can be more thoughtful than that. Whatever you bring, the gift should be sincere and personal. We picked out a few gift ideas from local boutiques that will show any host just how much you appreciate them.

CHARLOTTE’S INC.

Cutting Board- $66.00, Cashmere throw- $356.00, Gold Clam Shell- $115.00. Flower candle-$38.00, and Aromatique Candles- $25.00, Winner stopper,- $14.00, Shell frame- $60.00, Napkins- $6.00

Mariposa Small Bowl and Oval Server, $44.00, $129.00, Dog bowl- $34.00, Artichoke candles-$16.00, Mariposa Salad Servers- $44.00, Jayes guest towel holder- $33.00, Guest Towels- $7.50, Archipelago Hand soap and lotion- $15.00, $26.00

Hermes Boxes- $15.00 and $130.00, Hermes tray- $150.00, Jayes Tissue cover and Catchall- $30.00, $32.00, Bar set- $125.00, Decanter- $78.00, Monogram Trashcan- $160.00, short glasses and wine glasses- $23.00, $25.00