Sarah's pick:
I think the best token of appreciation from a guest is something that is thoughtful, yet simple, and useful at home (beautiful presentation is an added bonus, of course). I was given a box of these lovely wafer thin little soaps that have been made in Portugal since 1887. They're handy to keep in a guest bathroom and they smell divine (each box has a combination of Honeysuckle, Melon, Rose, Water Lily, Marine). Just make sure your guests don't think they're candy!
Tommy's pick:
Antique or vintage tea towels make a stylish statement. If your host/hostess loves them they'll look super spiffy on display and if not, they're still useful and fit easily in a drawer. Either way, it will be obvious you've gone a little off the beaten track instead of just popping into the liquor store on your way over.
Lindsey's pick:
A beautiful candle is one of those splurge items that people tend to not buy for themselves but love to receive as gifts! My favourite candles are from Diptyque. Feu de Bois is reminiscent of those summer bonfires by the lake.
Nicole's pick:
While living in NYC, I frequently visited Sarabeth's, an amazing spot known for its delightful brunch, fresh baked goods and divinely delicious jams! Why not give a six pack sampler of their most popular flavours as a gift for the host/hostess of your next dinner party invite! You'll be sure to be invited back again and again!
Natalie's pick:
When I am invited for a dinner at someone's house, I will often grab one of the many containers of Fleur de sel (flower of salt) I keep in my pantry; I buy them in bulk. This hand-harvested salt, traditionally collected off the coast of Brittany in France, is delicate and pure and a perfect finishing salt. I was introduced to this salt years ago and it has become both a staple and a splurge!
Olivia's pick:
My favourite hostess gift are small but unique decorative finds. I stumbled upon these plates on a recent trip to New York and am slightly obsessed. They're great on an entryway console to drop keys in or completing a stack of books on your coffee table. Plus they come in great colours and monogrammed versions!
Laura's pick:
I love to give beautiful stationery as a host/hostess gift. It's always practical and comes in such an array of options; you can really personalize your pick to the person you are buying for. My favourite items to give are always from Rifle Paper Co. They have really charming whimsical motifs that are always a hit when given as a gift. This two pack of notebooks are the perfect size to jot down a little note or two.