Host Gifts For The Thankful Guest

So you've been invited to Thanksgiving dinner, but you aren't sure what to bring as a token of appreciation. The hosts say they have the meal covered, and you'd like to do something more memorable than the standard bottle of wine. Arriving empty handed would be in poor taste, especially since your hosts have gone out of their way to include you in the festivities. But you also don't want to be basic, right? What's a guy to do? Don't worry, we've got you covered with ten host gifts that are guaranteed to get you invited back for seconds (and thirds!)

1. A floral feast for the eyes
Unless your host has allergies (definitely check first), you can never go wrong with a beautiful bouquet for the table. Talk to your local florist about some unique arrangements for fall--think thistle blossoms, delicate lanterns, mini-pumpkins, leaves and ferns. Usher the deep, rich shades of nature into your host's home and leave behind something for them to enjoy for a week or more.

2. A six pack soda sampler
Stores like Cost Plus and BevMo have huge assortments of non-alcoholic beverages. Grab a six pack and build your own sampler that guests can share. Jones Soda has festive holiday packs with flavors like Candy Cane and Eggnog, but be sure to grab a couple bottles you know are sure to please the crowd, such as root beer or a classic cola.

3. A sexy serving spoon
Make dessert an occasion your hosts will remember long after the last slice of pumpkin pie has been devoured by presenting them with a gorgeous pie or cake knife. Relatively affordable and practical, serving spoons can be a sentimental reminder of precious holiday memories. Go the extra mile and have the date engraved on it!

4. A melt-away-the-stress massage
Your hosts have put a good deal of time and energy into prepping for this meal, so why not give them something to look forward to afterwards? A gift certificate for a massage will have them being thankful for you! Many places offer great multi-visit deals around the holidays, so do your research and find a location that won't be inconvenient for the recipient(s) that also has high ratings.

5. A soothing tea party
Select a stylish mug and a mixed pack of tea bags, add some sticks of honey and a pretty teaspoon, and you've given your host a lovely keepsake that will encourage them to take a few moments to breathe and relax. If a couple is hosting you, maybe add a second mug or a nice little package of tea cookies.

6. A sophisticated apron
If your hosts are going to the trouble of laying down a spread, give them a gift they can use and re-use. Williams-Sonoma, Target, and Amazon have a handsome variety of quality aprons for every budget. Tuck a thank-you note in the pocket to let them know how much you appreciated the invitation.

7. A personal parsel
If you have a treasured family recipe, why not share it with your friends? Print out your favorite recipe on a notecard and present it to your hosts in a recipe card box where they can add their own collection. On the back of your notecard, share a personal memory or anecdote, and maybe inspire your friends to start a new tradition of their own.

8. A holiday ornament
If your dinner hosts celebrate the holidays with a Christmas tree, take advantage of stores stocking ornaments after Halloween. Select a unique, beautiful tree trimming that your friends can use every year.

9. Reusable napkins
Select a set of durable, stylish cotton napkins in a quirky print. Practical and stylish, these will remind your hosts of how their generosity was appreciated.

10. Your favorite book
Fall and winter are the perfect times to cozy up with a good book, so pick up your favorite one to pass along. Include a note about what the book means to you and why you think they'll like it, as well as an invitation for a future coffee date for the two of you to chat about it.

11. A never boring board
A beautiful cheese board out of a non-exotic wood, such as bamboo, is the perfect present for the culinary inclined. Even if your host already has one, multiples are always welcome, especially if you include a cute set of cheese knives and a selection of nibblies. Think Marcona almonds, artisan dried fruits, spiced walnuts and pecans or even some fancy cheese.

12. That's the spirit!
While wine can be a little predictable, a bottle of fine spirits as well as a set of high ball glasses or even a cocktail mixology book are a welcome change off the vine.

Whatever you do, remember to keep your hosts in mind and make a decision that will leave them feeling properly acknowledged for making you a part of their holiday. Happy Thanksgiving!