Today is day 1 of our 7-Day Holiday Gift Guide, and it’s dedicated to the “Host”.  This one is so much fun to write because I have received so many hostess gifts over the years – some useful, some fun, and some really unique.  Here are a few (all under $25) that any host would love to receive.

 

Yes, we all have a cheese board, but I love this one because it’s slate and can be used as a “board” to let your guests know what’s being served.  I’ve also used it to put breads or cookies or anything containing nuts, to alert any of my guests that may have a food allergy!

Park Slope Slate Cheeseboard & Chalk, Dot & Bo

Park Slope Slate Cheeseboard & Chalk, Dot & Bo- $16.99

 

Just saw this and couldn’t resist.  Red or white?  Bring one of each!

Elf Pants Wine Bag, Pottery Barn

Elf Pants Wine Bag, Pottery Barn- $15

 

Hands down, this is the best grater EVER!  I use it for everything.  Add some Himalayan Salt cubes, some cinnamon sticks, or nutmeg pods, and I guarantee your host will love it!

Microplane 40020 Classic Zester/Grater, Available on Amazon

Microplane 40020 Classic Zester/Grater, Available on Amazon- $12.60

 

Last week, I was in San Diego visiting my daughter Jillian, and we stopped in this little store that sold the yummiest scented sugars.  They had everything from spices, to citrus, to herbal!  I wanted one of everything.  This is a great DIY project- just put it in a pretty jar and and you have a true one-of-a-kind gift.

Scented Sugars, PS by Dila- DIY

Scented Sugars, PS by Dila- DIY

 

I love a unique take on a boring kitchen item, and this is both practical and cute.  I love the corks!!  Makes filling them a snap!

Holiday Village Salt & Pepper Shakers, Anthropologie

Holiday Village Salt & Pepper Shakers, Anthropologie- $14.00

 

As you know, I’m Italian!  There is not a piece of bread that goes on my table where there isn’t some garlic and olive oil.  I love this garlic grater plate- no extra mess… just peel your garlic, grate, and serve all in the same place.  If you want to really impress your host, add some slivers of garlic, peppercorns, basil, whole allspice, and fennel seed to that bottle of olive oil!  Yum!!

Garlic Grater and Oil Dipping Dish by Donna and Randall Rollins, Uncommon Goods- $15.00

Garlic Grater and Oil Dipping Dish by Donna and Randall Rollins, Uncommon Goods- $15.00

 

Yes, we all love to give and get candles, but let’s face it, they’re all pretty much the same.  These remind me a little of a Russian Matryoshka nesting doll. They are as pretty to look at unlit as they are when they are burning.

Animal Doll Candles, West Elm

Animal Doll Candles, West Elm- $16-22

 

This cocktail shaker is screaming “pick me up”, and isn’t that what you’re supposed to do with a cocktail shaker??

Telescope Cocktail Shaker, Pottery Barn- $22.99

Telescope Cocktail Shaker, Pottery Barn- $22.99

 

I was introduced to the Corkcicle by Christian, my soon to be son-in-law.  It’s such a great idea and it really works!

Corkcicle Air, Gifts.com $17.99

Corkcicle Air, Gits.com $17.99

 

How great is this!?  Chill your drink without watering it down!  Perfect for the scotch lover on your list, too!

Whiskey Wedge, Corckcicle- $16.95

Whiskey Wedge, Corckcicle- $16.95

 

 

Check out tomorrow’s blog for Holiday Gift Guide, Day 2: Gifts for the Gardener!

And make sure to check below and tomorrow’s gift ideas will be delivered directly to you via email!