The holidays are here, and that means lots of parties and get-togethers.
Sometimes it can be confusing about what to bring to holiday gatherings.
Common questions may come to mind.
For example, how do you go about picking out gifts for a gift exchange? And, should you bring a hostess gift in addition to the gift exchange gift? If so, what should you bring? Below you'll find a few things to keep in mind when attending a holiday party.
Gift Exchanges If it is specified on the invitation that there will be a gift exchange, then you will need to plan accordingly.
Details are usually provided if the host/hostess is in fact planning on having a gift exchange.
There are a few different variations of party gift exchanges.
Sometimes the hostess will specify a price limit--i.
e.
, 'Please bring a gift item under 10 dollars for a gift exchange'.
A themed gift exchange is also a popular variation.
This simply means that attendees will be instructed to bring a gift with a certain theme (i.
e.
, 80s gifts, etc.
).
Sometimes "White Elephant" gift exchanges are held at holiday parties.
This usually entails attendees exchanging funny, sometimes used items.
It's usually a party game in which participants draw numbers from a hat and select the corresponding labeled gifts.
If you are participating in a White Elephant gift exchange, be sure to follow a few guidelines, whether specified on the invitation or not.
For example, you wouldn't bring a brand new, expensive gift to a White Elephant exchange.
Hostess Gifts Regardless of whether or not there is going to be a gift exchange or not, it's usually best to show up with a gift for the host/hostess.
If it is a holiday cocktail party, a nice bottle of wine presented in a pretty wine bag is an appropriate gift.
You won't want to go the thrifty route here--in other words, don't buy the cheapest bottle of screw-top wine you can find.
Handmade gifts are always a thoughtful choice.
These scented sugars are a sweet idea.
If it is a dinner party then you might want to consider sending flowers.
Sending a lovely flower centerpiece prior to the get-together is one option.
A centerpiece will provide a pretty focal point for the meal.
For general holiday parties, consider sending a holiday wreath or poinsettia--this will beautiful the home for the get-together.
Family Feasts For family gatherings and dinners, if you love to cook then by all means bring a delicious dish.
Appetizers and desserts are always smart choices in this case--they won't detract from the main dish.
As stated above, flower centerpieces are always a nice idea; as are bottles of wine.
If you're bringing wine to a dinner party or family feast, you might want to consider bringing two bottles.
That way you have all your bases covered with wine pairings.
Kids' Gifts If the hosts have children then you might want to bring a little something for them--it makes for a sweet gesture.
Although it may be tempting to give the kids candy, you will most likely want to avoid this unless you know that the parents won't mind.
There's the possibility of the child having food allergies so it's best to avoid edibles.
Coloring books and crayons are always a great idea.
This gift is perfect for both girls and boys and is fun for many age groups.
If the kids are older, consider giving a popular age-appropriate gift.
Puzzles are always great gifts for kids as well.
Christmas Gift vs.
Holiday Gift If you are close to the host, then you might want to bring a hostess/party gift as well as their actual gift.
A hostess gift is usually a gift for the actual party or gathering while the Christmas gift is more personal.
For instance, if a good girlfriend of yours is throwing a party, consider bringing her a hostess gift--such as a bottle of wine, flowers, etc--as well as her gift you already planned on giving her (i.
e.
, bath products, a scarf, etc.
).
Make sense? As you can see, there are several routes to take when it comes to bringing gifts to holiday parties.
Just remember--you most likely will not want to show up empty-handed!