Host and Hostess Gifts
"It's always proper etiquette to bring a host gift, even if it's something small, like a box of mints or a bottle of wine," says etiquette expert Diane Warner, author of "Diane Warner's Big Book of Parties." "Unfortunately, this traditional rule of etiquette isn't always followed today, especially for large, informal parties."
Although the gift of a bottle of wine always is in season, why not consider these creative alternatives?
- Complement a bottle of wine with a set of wine charms.
- Create a breakfast basket lined with gingham and filled with homemade bread, an assortment of sample-sized jams and coffee.
- Make a family movie snack kit with a variety of flavoured gourmet popcorn, Pringles®, almonds and chocolates. Tuck an assortment of homemade treats into a decorative tin.
Sticking to a Diet
A good way to help head off temptation is to have a light, healthy snack or drink several glasses of water before you go to the party. If you're slightly full, you'll be less likely to overindulge. An alternative to abstinence is bringing your own appetizer or dish, made with diet-friendly ingredients.
Help Your Host
Whether you're bringing a side dish or appetizer, simple is the rule. Complex dishes can mean a hassle for your host, and the last thing she needs is another person underfoot in the kitchen, or to be distracted from her guests by requests for serving dishes, utensils or a quick heat-up in the oven.
These quick-fix appetizers always are crowd-pleasers:
- Decorative fruit-and-cheese platter
- Deviled eggs
- Crab-stuffed cherry tomatoes
- Smoked salmon with crackers, capers and onions
- Chilled shrimp platter with lemon and dipping sauce
Don't worry if you have to decline an invitation — most hosts will understand completely. Just be sure not to forget — declining is fine, but you don't want to be a no-show.
A quick phone call to let the host know you can't attend is fine, Warner says, or you can send a handwritten note. And if you have to miss a particularly special party, it's a great excuse for you to host the next celebration!
