14 Thoughtful Host Gifts That Make A Great Impression

Aside from simply being a good guest, a thoughtfully chosen host gift says you’ve been thinking about your friends: what you like about the way they cook, the way they treat themselves and others, and how they dress their table for company.

From bottle stoppers to sculptural spoon rests and even a big box of fancy salt, we’ve found a bunch of ways to thank them without spending a fortune.

Grange Winery Rosé, $18

Several Chatelaine editors loved the latest release from this Prince Edward County winery; a puckery and refreshing rosé with peach and berry aromas that come off more herbal than sweet. It's bound to be a crowd pleaser, even in the chill of winter.

Seedlip Notas de Agave, $45

Looking to gift a bottle of something totally dry? Zero-proof spirit maker Seedlip’s newest release is a delicious way to riff off tequila-based cocktails. Rather than try to recreate the flavour of tequila itself, Notas de Agave features peppery and creamy flavours that hit the right notes for a grapefruit paloma or spicy margarita.

Ravioli Spoon Rest, $12

This cute pasta-themed accessory is too cute not to fawn over, whether you’re a kitchen neat freak who obsessively uses spoon rests or someone who enjoys a lil trompe l’oeil treat. Your host will appreciate this cheerful, dishwasher-safe gift either way.

Maegan Salt & Pepper Grinder, from $45

Designed to hold either coarse salt or peppercorns, this sculptural spice mill by popular UK tableware brand Maegan is made with a rubberwood exterior and sturdy ceramic grinding mechanism, and comes in a range of colours, from dusty lilac to blood orange and ultramarine blue.

The AGO Holiday Gift Guide, starting at $15

Treat the hostess to a unique gift that will be treasured long after the holidays are over. The AGO Holiday Gift Guide brings beautiful and vibrant art into the lives of your loved ones, featuring the gallery's favourite pieces. With a special focus on colour and light, these vibrant gifts will brighten any home all year round.

Native Vanilla Bean Paste, $20

Have you seen the price of vanilla lately? Is your host a baking fiend? Delight them with a slightly splurge-y tub of vanilla bean paste that, unlike pricier pods, can be stretched to last a little longer in recipes. The Chatelaine Test Kitchen likes this brand for recipe development.

Maldon Sea Salt Flakes, $22 for two 8-oz packs

Finishing salt is one of those nice-to-haves that seems easier to buy for others than yourself—but this two-pack means you can keep one and gift one. A dusting adds sparkle to desserts, sliced fruit, salads and steaks, or even just a plate of fries.

Eleanor Bowmer Zodiac Mug, $16

Whether your host is astrology-obsessed or just enjoys an expressive illustration, these cute mugs are a delightful way to celebrate their star sign.

Glass Candy Napkin Rings, $54

Eye candy, indeed: these shiny table-setting showstoppers will be welcome on any dining table.

Chocolat de Kat Bonbon Box, $31 for 9 pieces

The flavour combinations and bright, paintbox colours on the bonbons by this Toronto-based chocolatier will have recipients scrambling for seconds. Salted pistachio, caramel corn, an unctuous and truly knock-your-socks-off PB&J; each gemlike treat is made with fresh ingredients and painted by hand by Kata Ambrus and her small team.

Allo Simone Chocolate Hazelnut Spread, $54 for 1 kg

This Chatelaine editor’s preferred pick to another, big-name chocolate dessert spread is made and shipped directly from the company’s factory in Montreal, where co-owners Quentin Ryckaert and Vincent Coja make both dairy and non-dairy versions. Turning up to the party with a kilogram tub of this chocolate dream is a highly classy move.

Retro Grooved Glasses, $20 for two

These cute, retro-inspired glasses come in a gorgeous amber colour are a truly excellent deal. Pair them with the matching carafe for an additional $20.

Noodle Bowl Set, $18

Science says so: food just tastes better in a colourful bowl. Even the most blasé of leftovers will be perked up with this cute patterned set, which also comes with chopsticks and a chopstick rest.

Pickle Bottle Stopper, $18

Another delightfully weird and perfect treat for gifting. The next time there’s a bottle of open, leftover wine to put in the fridge, pull out this little pickle stopper and see who doesn’t smile. 

Check out more thoughtful (and affordable!) gift ideas.