WRITER | RACHEL WHITE

Going to holiday parties is one of the best parts of the season. You get all dressed up, hair done, then you remember – you’re going to need to bring something for the hostess. This year, instead of a traditional bottle of wine, perhaps something different is in order. So be prepared. The trick is to be thoughtful. What does the host enjoy? Here’s some inspiration for all of your event gifting.

For the Chef: Fustini’s Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil
You can’t go wrong with an unexpected but always appreciated oil and vinegar set. Traverse City Cherry Balsamic Vinegar and Basil Olive Oil with Porcini Truffle Tapenade will satisfy the most discerning taste buds.
Fustinis.com

For the Pet Lover: Cherry Chew Gift Box
These healthy, natural, sweet treats for Fido look so good, make sure they know they’re for the dog!
DogBakeryOnline.com

For the Person with Everything: Michigan Tea Towel
The cheery details on this vintage-inspired flour sack cotton tea towel are sure to make a good impression on your host. It features most major cities in Michigan and is sure to evoke memories of trips to the cottage.
MichiganStudio.com

For the Cocktail Enthusiast: Mammoth Distilling Cherry Bounce
This made-in-Michigan cordial is just what the home bartender ordered. Tart Montmorency cherries give it the bounce. For a personal touch, enclose a couple of cool cocktail recipes with your note. Recipe ideas and where to buy can be found on their website.
MammothDistilling.com

For the People with Beautiful Furniture  
These colorful coasters from IconicDetroit.com are handmade of tumbled stone, and if you’re really on the ball, they even offer personal customization. They will keep grandma’s antique mahogany looking great.
IconicDetroit.com

For the Tea Lover: Light of Day Organic Teas
Most of the delicious teas, flowers, herbs, and fruit in these award-winning blends are grown right here in Michigan, and they come in these precious little tins, perfect for gifting.                            LightofDayOrganics.com

For the Reader: MICHIGAN MODERN: Design That Shaped America
Is the hostess a lover of architecture? This gorgeous book has photos and essays highlighting Michigan’s contributions to modern architecture. Check your local indie bookstore for a copy.

For the Next Morning: Higher Grounds Coffee
Good coffee is paramount to a good morning. So, for the morning after the party, why don’t you leave the host feeling warm coffee thoughts about you? They’ll forget all about how you spilled red wine on Aunt Jane.
HigherGroundsTrading.com

Remember to put a little label on the present, so your host knows who it’s from. In the hubbub of guests arriving, it can get a bit hectic, and your host may not remember where the gift came from. When they see the note and recall your thoughtfulness, you’ll be first on the invite list for next year!