10 Thoughtful Thanksgiving Hostess Gifts

That aren’t a bottle of wine.

I have nothing against wine, but somewhere along the way it seems to have become the automatic hostess gift. Someone invites us for Thanksgiving dinner and we think, “Quick, grab a bottle of wine!” But what if she doesn’t drink, already has plenty, or you’d simply like to bring something a little more thoughtful? I started thinking about Thanksgiving hostess gifts I’d actually be happy to receive myself, things that are useful, enjoyable, won’t add a bunch of clutter, and show your host that you really appreciate all the work that went into bringing everyone together.

What Makes a Good Thanksgiving Hostess Gift?

A good hostess gift doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, I think some of the best ones are simple things the host can actually use or enjoy after everyone goes home. And considering how much work can go into hosting Thanksgiving dinner, showing up with a little something that says “I appreciate you doing all of this” is a pretty nice gesture.

10 Thoughtful Thanksgiving Hostess Gifts That Aren’t Another Bottle of Wine

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1. A Beautiful Wooden Serving/Charcuterie Board

Useful long after Thanksgiving, especially one that isn’t covered in Thanksgiving wording.

2. A Candle Warmer Lamp

I like this more than simply suggesting a candle. They’re popular, useful, look pretty on a counter or side table, and she can use candles without lighting them

3. Really Nice Kitchen Towels

But not cheap novelty turkey towels. Think attractive, absorbent cotton towels in warm fall colours that she’ll actually use.

4. A Pretty Set Of Serving Utensils

Something people don’t necessarily replace for themselves. Salad servers, serving spoons or a small serving set that can come out for Christmas too

5. A Leftover-Food Storage Set

This one is less glamorous but VERY Thanksgiving. After feeding everyone, she’s inevitably standing there trying to figure out where to put all the leftovers. A nice glass storage-container set is genuinely useful.However if storage is not an issue,I like the take-out plastic so you can also send left-overs home as well.

6. A Small Indoor Herb-Growing Kit

Basil, rosemary or another kitchen herb. It lasts longer than flowers, doesn’t create permanent clutter, and is a little different. This one is a great choice for gardeners and chefs.

7. A Good Coffee or Tea Gift

Especially if you know what she drinks. Pair good coffee/tea with something small like honey or biscotti. Consumable = no clutter.

8. A rechargeable electric lighter

One of those little practical things for candles, fireplaces, BBQs, etc. Inexpensive enough for a hostess gift

9. A Beautiful Pie Server or Cake Knife

I like this because you could actually arrive with it along with the dessert. “The pie is for tonight and the server is for you.” That’s thoughtful without being expensive.

10. Breakfast the next morning

Bring a little basket with good coffee, muffins/scones, jam or something for breakfast. After someone has spent all day cooking Thanksgiving dinner, giving them tomorrow morning off is actually pretty thoughtful.

Bonus: Help Clean the Kitchen

This one costs absolutely nothing. If someone has just cooked Thanksgiving dinner for the entire family, don’t disappear into the living room while she tackles a mountain of dishes. Load the dishwasher, wash a few pots and wipe down the counters. You may suddenly become her favourite guest.

THAT sounds like InternetHousewife. 😂