Anyone who lives in a city knows summer is the time to leave it. During this three-month period, I try to spend as much time as possible in other people’s homes—I’m always eager for a respite from the smelly, stinky, hot concrete jungle, be it by pool, sea, woods, or mountain. Because of this, I feel I’ve mastered the art of the houseguest over the years. The key to being invited back is simple: good behavior, good conversation, and a good host gift.
Hosting is an exhausting, laborious, and sometimes thankless job, so even the smallest gesture can go a long way. The perfect gift says thank you without adding to the chaos and clutter of a house, and centers the host (not the individual gifting it). These foolproof—but not cliché—host gifts will help you express gratitude to every type of host when that standard bottle of wine won’t cut it.
For the Person Who’s Always in Host Mode: MoMA Drink Accents
The problem with having a beautiful house anywhere that isn’t a hot stinky city is that in the summer, you might find yourself hosting every single weekend. At least that’s how I imagine my mother-in-law feels listening to everyone jump into the pool as she, once again, loads the dishwasher. These beach-house-worthy drink accents subtly help guests keep track of their drinks, while also adding a little colorful flair to the cup. With fewer dishes, the hostess with the mostess can enjoy the weekend, too.
Buy: $16
For the Competitive Host: Bocce Scorecard
I married into a yard game family. And in the summer, bocce is one of their favorites—partially because it’s fun, but mostly because you can play it with a drink in your hand. While I claim not to care about the score, I know the importance of winning, and so does my father-in-law, which is where this bocce ball scoreboard comes in. It’s easy to use, and the depiction of an old man is my loving way of telling him he’s getting old. (
Buy: $135
And if They Need Something to Compete Over: Classy Bocce Set
No one can keep score if there's nothing to compete over. Bocce is timeless and easy to learn--plus it can be played just about anywhere. It's the host gift that will be used time and time again.
Buy: $129
For Celebrating a Housewarming Party: All-in-One Picnic Blanket
We all have that friend who is onto their second home before others are even on their first, but think of it this way: their home is now your getaway. Instead of getting them a housewarming gift AND a thank-you-for-hosting gift, roll them into one with this perfect picnic blanket. Made from a mix of wool and water-resistant fibers, it can serve them for many years of beach trips, hiking picnics, and backyard lounges to come. Make it extra special by embroidering the coordinates of the house, really going that extra mile to ensure you’re invited back.
Buy: $89
For Someone You Only Sort of Know: Essential Oil Incense Sticks
Since I didn’t grow up with a summer home (pause for tears), I’ve gotten quite good and comfortable with visiting other people’s parents' homes. In recent years, the usual thank you note doesn’t seem like enough to show my gratitude. Now that I’m older and wiser, I am sure not to arrive empty handed, but since I don’t know them very well, I bring something anyone would enjoy, like these essential oil incense sticks that double as mosquito repellent. That way we can spend hours catching up around the outdoor table without being eaten alive.
Buy: $59.50
For the Family Vacation You're Crashing: Popcorn Pods
Even as adults, being the youngest child means mooching off of older siblings. Anyone who shares my similar youngest child affliction can surely agree. To show my gratitude for letting me crash their vacation, in addition to free babysitting, I’m bringing a treat we can all enjoy: perfectly seasoned, ready to pop popcorn. I’ve become obsessed with the genius Cherry Lane popcorn pods. Perfectly portioned and made from high quality ingredients, they have a variety of flavors from butter to tomato and basil. It’s sure to be 3-year-old nephew and 33-year-old-picky-sister approved.
Buy: $23.50
