Summer Hostess Gift Ideas

Traveling over the next couple weeks, you know there are lots of places to visit and people to see: friends' new house, lake cabin party, girls night, family adventures, and, of course, the occasional couch to crash on.

If there is one thing my mom instilled in me growing up, it's: never go anywhere empty handed.  Bring a dessert, bring a side dish, bring a gift.  Well, I really like cooking and baking, but bouncing from place to place so much while we're in the Northeast might not make those options very feasible.  I also reeeally like shopping, so I decided to round up a few favorites that I'd consider giving (and will be giving) to friends and family this summer as tokens of my appreciation.

With hostess gifts, I always try to purchase things in one of two categories: things that a hostess might not buy for herself or things that include some homemade love.

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First, start with a cute card to expression your appreciation of the invitation!  To me, the more floral the card is, the better!

If it's a dinner party, how about some emoji cocktail napkins?  If you want even more excitement, they also make "naughty or nice" or "emotional roller coaster" sets.

A day at the pool certainly calls for that cute pineapple towel.  What about adding in this fun ice cube tray or a homemade ice cream sandwich maker, too?

Looking for a gift for the whole family?  This s'mores basket is so perfect!  Throw in all the fixin's for s'mores and you have the perfect fireside or camping party!

Everyone loves a bouquet of flowers, so how about something that will last even longer than those traditional blooms?

Last, but not least, don't have time to throw together a basket on your own? The Hostess Box has everything she'll love!

What's your favorite hostess gift to give (or receive)??