The host or hostess gift should never be overlooked. A tradition of days gone by? Not if your mama raised you right!

Regardless of the occasion, nothing says “thank you for opening your home to us or it’s my pleasure to be here” like a small, personal token for the host. This southern girl would rather chase a man than show up to anyone’s house empty handed.

There are many traditional and popular host and hostess gifts. A bottle of wine or some other spirit, assuming of course, that you are certain the recipient drinks, is always a hit. If you know their cocktail of choice, even better. Candles, fresh flowers, something useful for entertaining, or monogrammed items are classics. And of course you can’t go wrong with an edible gift.

In said category you can choose to bring anything from an entire dessert for guests to share to treats especially for the host(s) to enjoy once everyone has said goodbye (who doesn’t love a little midnight or later snack after a long night of socializing?). We also adore tiny, one or two bite luxury treats…each so rich and flavorful they are each meant to be savored. Enjoyed slowly. Appreciated. Raved over. Thought about long after they’re gone (like your best girl). Consider gourmet chocolates or truffles, bite size Tiramisu, or macaroons. Or perhaps, my personal favorite, a box of melt-in-your-mouth petit fours decorated with the host’s initials.

Remember, your choice of host or hostess gift need not be monumental. In this case, it truly is the thought that counts. Regardless of the occasion, if you are wondering whether or not you should bring a little something along, always err on the side of yes. – M.T.