Creative Hostess Gifts

'Tis the season for house guests and hosting, but don't forget to be a gracious guest! Hostess gifts are so much a thing of the past these days, but why? Something so simple can have such an impact on the person who is opening their home to you. Take one of these adorable gifts and ensure you'll be invited back next year!

1. Homemade Cookie Mix: Like this adorable blend from Sharnel! Just take your favorite cookie recipe and and divide it into fourths-depending on the size of your mason jars. Add all the dry ingredients in layers, and secure the top with a lid, covered in a festive fabric and secured with twine. Then, create a label with the instructions to add the wet ingredients and baking time and temperature. This is easiest on a piece of paper, hole-punched and tied to the twine on top. Or, like the picture shown, you can print the labels on sticker paper. Make sure to take into consideration common allergies like peanuts and gluten. For thanksgiving, try  harvest cookies with your favorite dried fruit!

2. Embellished flowers: Use a brandy glass or small rose bowl like these from Southern Living and attach a homemade card with twine to the stem of the vase.

3. Serving Tray: Were you asked to bring an appetizer to the party? Buy a cute tray and leave a holiday card taped to the bottom. When they go to wash the dishes that night, they'll be surprised and honored!

4. Orchard Basket: Line an inexpensive basket with burlap and fill with fresh apples and mulling spices, with a pretty recipe for homemade apple cider.

Specialty Oils: You already know the hostess loves to entertain-Give her something to use at her next party! Some fancy bread dipping oil, truffle oil, or unique olive oil is the perfect gift! Wrap a raffia bow around the neck of the bottle with a small handmade card.