If you’re starting to rack up the party invites for this summer, you’re also going to start racking up a list of host gifts you need to buy! While you can’t go wrong with the old stand-bys like a bottle of wine or bouquet of flowers, we want to help you with some more creative gift ideas to help you stand out as a number one guest.

• Instead of a bottle of wine, give a bottle of sparkling wine or pre-mixed cocktails: Bubbly always adds a touch of class to any celebration, while pre-mixed cocktails like mojitos or daiquiris are perfect for summer! Buying a pre-mixed version of your host’s fave drink is a nice personalized touch!
• Instead of a bouquet of flowers, give a variety of herbs for the garden or windowsill: No matter how green your thumb is, herbs like mint, basil, thyme and rosemary are easy to grow, and they’re delicious, too! If your host has a big backyard you could buy a variety for their garden, otherwise you could buy one or two in smaller windowsill versions.
• Instead of an empty picture frame, give a framed photo of you and the host: Revisiting old memories is a great way to show the host that you appreciate their friendship. It doesn’t have to be a serious, posed photo – try to find a fun, goofy one from an event long past!
• Instead of a scented soap, give a kitchen or gardening soap: Is your host a frequent cook or avid gardener? Kitchen soaps are specially-formulated to remove food oils and odors, while gardening soaps work to remove dirt and stains. Your host will appreciate the special thought!
• Instead of store-bought chocolate or candy, give a homemade treat or a mix in a jar: Feed your host’s sweet tooth in a more personal way by making cookies, brownies, cupcakes, or whatever their favourite treat may be. Alternatively, you can make a homemade mix in a jar: layer the dry ingredients for your best recipe in a jar and decorate it with a personalized label with baking instructions.

Do you have a favourite gift to give your party hosts? What gift would you love to receive from your guests? Share your gift giving stories in the comments!