One of my favorite things is dining out at good quality establishments. I worked in hospitality for a number of years and if I wasn't doing what I'm doing now then I would probably have a little cafe somewhere. I am a very cool customer, I very rarely complain - I just won't go back and I will tell people about my experience good or bad. In saying that, as much as I love to dine out I do love entertaining at home. I don't do elaborate - relaxed, hearty and fun are more my style.


FRIENDS, FUN, FINE WINE AND FOOD - IN THAT ORDER! NOW THAT'S MY STYLE!

It seems to me that more and more people are entertaining at home these days. The continuing success of shows such as Masterchef could be influencing this trend or maybe I'm just getting older and my clubbing days are behind me! I love attending friend's dinner parties / BBQ's as I am always intrigued by dishes served up by my gorgeous friends. I always come away with a new recipe that brings a little variation to our repertoire. In order to thank my host with the most I always take a little something to show my appreciation and today I will guide you through a couple of do's and don'ts with regard to hostess gift etiquette.

DINNER PARTY
So you have been invited for your excellent company, good wit, charm and supposed good looks - let's not ruin your rep by getting off on the wrong foot. As your host is providing you with food, accompanying beverages, atmosphere and taking care of the clean up the least you can do is take a small gift to thank them for their generosity. It is most appropriate to give the gift on arrival however the gift must not distract the host from their task at hand which is entertaining.


     Bold and Beautiful $80              Lily Divine $68                   Bright Delight $68

If you want to take flowers, make sure you take them in a vase or send them ahead of time so the host doesn't have to deal with it there and then. A bottle of wine is an obvious choice but be prepared that it may not be shared with you at the gathering. If you take food make it gourmet or home made and ensure that it is wrapped so the host doesn't feel pressure to serve it. After all, your host may have gone to great lengths to prepare and coordinate the menu. Seasonal gifts such as an ornate an Christmas bauble /decorations also make for unique and appropriate hostess gifts. You shouldn't expect a thank you note from the host for your gift - you are the one doing the thanking!

            
 Cheeseboard $25     BBQ Cookbook $24.95            Alessi Keyring $39.95

CASUAL BRUNCH/BBQ
If the do is a casual affair, then a gift is optional. However it is thoughtful and just plain nice to take some kind of contribution to the meal. If you do decide to take food ask ahead of time so you can bring something that will compliment rather than distract from the occasion.

OVERNIGHT STAY
If your visit involves an overnight stay or is for an extended period of time then a gift is mandatory.
The longer the stay the more cashola you should spend. Ideally you should give the gift on departure however it is also acceptable to send something a couple of days after your stay. If you are staying for more than one night and you have the time to purchase a gift take note if there is something in particular your host may need and accordingly ensure it will work with their decor. Gourmet gift hampers are a very easy option that won't offend - check out the Red Ribbon range of gourmet hampers below.....

           
Sweet & Savoury $100                         Super Sweet $75                        Sweet Surprise $50

NOT ATTENDING
If you have to decline an invitation to a dinner party / casual gathering there is no need to send a gift.