Holiday party season means a lot of doorbells, and showing up empty-handed is not an option. The best hostess gift is something the host can enjoy after everyone goes home, not one more thing they have to deal with during the party. Here are our favorites, sorted by budget.
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Why tea makes a great hostess gift
Flowers need a vase right when the host is busiest. A bottle of wine gets opened that night or forgotten. A canister of tea is different: it sits pretty on the counter, needs nothing from them, and becomes their quiet cup the morning after the party.
Under $25
- A Leaves of Leisure canister ($20.99), 15 tea bags in our keepsake tin. Try Apple Picking (apple, cinnamon, hibiscus) for a fall party or Snow Angel (peppermint, spearmint, ginger) for December.
- Pastel Tea Party Napkins ($13), a sweet add-on for the host who loves to entertain
- Brightland Mini Awake olive oil ($20)
- Otherland Cardamom Milk candle ($20)
- Anthropologie Mitten Stoneware Mug ($16)
Under $50
- Heavenly Hygge Tea Gift Set ($37.78), our self-care pair for the host who needs a night off
- Tea & Bookmark Gift Set ($25.50), for the host who runs the book club
- Frøya Instant Softening Hand Balm ($39), a treat after a night of dishes
- Brooklyn Candle Studio Chalet candle ($45)
Under $100
- Brightland Duo Set ($89), olive oil for the host who cooks
- Brightland Vinegar Duo ($52)
- Brooklyn Candle Studio Holiday Rituals Candle Trio ($75)
- Build your own: a Leaves of Leisure canister, the tea party napkins, and an Otherland candle for about $54
How to wrap a hostess gift
Skip the gift bag. Tie a ribbon around a canister, tuck a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick under the bow, and add a small tag that says "for the morning after." It takes two minutes and looks like you planned it for weeks.
Why order now
- Stock up on a few canisters now and you are covered for every party this season.
- Holiday shipping slows down every week in December.
- Free shipping on orders over $60, so three canisters ship free.
Frequently asked questions
How much should you spend on a hostess gift? Most people spend $15 to $30. A canister of tea at $20.99 lands right in the middle.
What is a good hostess gift besides wine? Tea, a candle, good olive oil, or pretty napkins. Something they can enjoy later, on their own time.
Are your teas caffeine-free? Most are. Sun Soaked and Bath Time are low-caffeine, and the rest are caffeine-free.
