Don't show up empty-handed, these host gifts from Walmart guarantee an invite back
Stock up on these sure-to-please treats and tokens that show your hosts how much you appreciate them.
Whether you're attending an intimate dinner or big holiday fete, it's nice to show up with a host gift when you're invited into someone's home. With the holiday season — and all the parties that go along with it upon us — it's time to stock up. Even if you don't have many invites just yet, rest assured they're coming. And that's why it's always a good idea to keep a bunch of options on hand so you're ready whenever a gathering comes up.
Wine and flowers are probably the most classic host gifts, but they certainly aren't your only options. Anything for the kitchen or home is generally a solid bet. A good rule of thumb when thinking about host gifts? Think practical and useful items — everyday basics that feel a bit more special or unique than what people usually buy for themselves. Need some ideas to get your own creative juices flowing? Check out our favorite no-fail host gifts at Walmart below.
Perfect for apartment dwellers who love entertaining, this acacia wood charcuterie board comes complete with a marble serving platter and a knife for slicing cheese. It's on the smaller side so it won't take up much space in the cabinet and easily washes clean with soap and water.
Anyone who hosts regularly will tell you one thing: You can never have too many serving platters. Sure a statement platter in a bright, bold color or print is nice, but a classic white pick like the one above easily matches with other serving pieces and will never go out of style.
This one has elegant handles for simpler serving and the slight curve to the side makes it versatile and practical.
We've all watched a novice struggle to get the cork out of a bottle of wine. Pretty sad sight, right? If you know libations will be flowing at your upcoming gathering, bless your host with an electric wine opener like this one from Cuisinart. The one-touch function makes light work of even the most crammed-in corks, so glasses can remain full and spirits high.
You can never really own too many vases, and one like this, with a stylish but low-profile design, is great as a host gift. The hand-painted, artisian-made vibe makes it feel extra special. Bring it filled with flowers to earn a little bit of extra guest credit. Versions with brown and black stripes are also available, but we love this calming striped sage version.
Platters are the ultimate 'the more the merrier' home item — plus, they are perfect to gift at parties where the host can use them right away to serve appetizers or sweets. This ceramic plate has a subversive snowflake design, adding just the right touch of seasonal cheer without going full-on Christmas. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup
It's not all about domesticity — party games make for excellent gifts. This one takes the viral trend it's named for and turns it into a high-energy, laugh-inducing game with a NSFW twist. Made in the style of classics like Pictionary and Taboo, there are three ways to "tell" what your card says in this 18+ game: Show Don’t Tell, One Syllable or Freestyle. This is great for a smaller crowd but gets even funnier with a big group.
If they're not already one of the 1.1 million followers of EyeSwoon's Athena Calderone, they soon will be. She's known for her truly impeccable taste, which is sure to inspire your host to... live more beautifully, after they've perused the pages of this lovely book. How do the world's top tastemakers find the spark and inspiration to create a beautiful space? This book answers that and is filled with 256 pages of ideas, insights and breathtaking photography.
For a twist on the standard candle host gift, try a reed diffuser. They make make any home smell lovely without having to deal with an open flame. This one has a lime basil citrus scent and comes with pretty (and real!) dried flowers.
As any cook or baker knows, a stylish, functional pair of oven mitts is a kitchen essential — and makes a thoughtful present, too. This charming green set from Drew Barrymore's Beautiful line includes a pot holder, two mini mitts and one full-size oven mitt, making time by the stove a much more enjoyable experience.
Gift your host their own adventure with this Paris-themed loose-leaf tea set. The herbs come straight from India and include yummy herbal and black teas like turmeric saffron, chocolate vanilla and blooming rose.
Introduce your host to a yummy new flavor with this black truffle acacia honey. It's imported from Italy, with truffles sourced from Piedmont. Drizzle it over cheese, stir it into risotto, whip it into ricotta, slather it on a burger bun, try it with chicken — the ideas are endless.
Pretty pitchers always go over well as host gifts. This one is designed by the host-extrodinaire herself, Ree Drummond. Made of ceramic, it holds over two quarts and — while it looks delicate and elegant — it easily cleans up in the dishwasher. We're big fans of the sweet floral pattern.
Coasters seem to have a humble job, but if you think their one duty is to protect your surfaces, you're missing half of their potential. They are also a means for exuding a bit of style and elegance to an otherwise utilitarian task. This set of four is made from beautifully-grained marble slabs inlaid with acacia. The materials combined are eye-catching — yet neutral enough to go with just about any table setting.
Paper towels at an elegant holiday dinner party? We think not! Cloth napkins are an easy way to elevate any tablescape. If you're shopping for someone who entertains often, they're sure to appreciate this neutral set that will complement their dishes without clashing.
Don't underestimate the charm of a beautifully-scented and luxurious hand soap. Mrs. Meyers is known for using nourishing ingredients like olive oil, aloe vera and essential oils in their formulas, making their soaps both gentle and heavenly scented. Anyone expecting guests will want to keep bathrooms and sinks fully stocked, so this set of four hand washes will be a welcome addition.
Of course, chocolate tops the list of no-fail gift options. A sampler box like this one is great because it's easy to share and there's something for every taste. It comes with 72 pieces including cashews, vanilla cream, coconut, caramel and more.
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