Life

11 Christmas Hostess Gift Ideas That Will Get You Invited Back Next Year

Not sure what to bring the host of an upcoming holiday soiree? Here's a hint: fruitcake is NOT an option, and wine is, well, kinda boring. If you aren't going to get a chance to prove yourself as host-with-the-most this holiday season, you might as well earn the title of champion gift giver to the people throwing the parties. Here are 11 unique gift ideas that should guarantee a 2014 invite. Look at you, being a fancy guest.

by Kara Freewind

Colorful Housewarming Set

If your hosts just moved into their new place, bring them a housewarming set of colorful utensils.

Housewarming Set, $55, Etsy

Literary Libations

For the book worms: cocktail recipes inspired by classic literature.

Tequila Mockingbird, $10, Amazon

Curated Terrarium

This terrarium from a Brooklyn-based Etsy shop comes complete with easy-to-care-for moss and succulents.

Table Terrarium with Ceramic Ring, $45, Etsy

Playing Cards Fit For a Queen

A royal deck for the glamorous card player.

Gold Playing Cards, $17, Furbish Studio

Advent Candle

Mark down the days to Christmas by candlelight on this simple votive from Swedish boutique Black Balloon.

Doftljus Christmas, $21, Black Balloon

Floral Tea Towel

A springy handmade tea towel to cure the winter blues.

Meadow Tea Towel, $24, Etsy

Herbal Soap

The Brooklyn shop Saipua mixes all-natural, sustainable herbal soaps.

Basil Soap, $10, Saipua

Kiehl's Body Butter

The ultimate body creme to combat winter dryness.

Creme de Crops Soy Milk & Honey Whipped Body Butter, $48, Kiehl’s

Modern Ornament

This sophisticated porcelain ornament will make any tree look extra chic.

Porcelain Pinecone Ornament, $16, Leif

Chai Hot Cocoa

British chocolate purveyor Prestat creates unique candies and hot cocoa, all wrapped in some of the best packaging around.

The Maharajah’s Chai Hot Chocolate Flakes, $11, Prestat

Birch Candles

Neutral birch candles provide the je ne sais quoi missing from your host’s centerpiece. Joyeux Noël!

Birch Candles, $4 and up, World Market

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