Lafleur

With all the parties scheduled during the Holidays, it’s not always easy to find the right gift that your host will truly appreciate. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

Why?
Unless you’re bringing a part of the meal, a gift for your host is strongly recommended when you’re invited to dinner.

How much?
Plan to spend between $15 and $30 on your gift, unless you make it yourself, which can be more or less expensive, depending on your choice.

When?
Never offer your gift at the door upon arrival. Take the time to remove your coat and boots, then wait until you’re in the kitchen or living room. In addition, the host should open your gift only after you leave, to avoid comparing the gifts with those of other guests, along with theone-upmanship that can result. If you are the host, we recommend a quick “thank you” call the next day to each of your gift-bearing guests.

What?
The eternal question! Beyond the ubiquitous bottle of wine, which by the way should never be opened during the meal (since your host has thought of everything), why not try a little innovation and stand out?

• Home-made gifts: Your host will appreciate a small gift that you made yourself. Consider chocolate truffles, cookies, marinades, jams, etc. No time to cook? Prepare a little jar of your secret spice blend (e.g. curry or dessert spices), with the ingredients written on a card attached to the jar with a pretty ribbon. Your host will adore it.
• Alcoholic beverages:If you’re offering wine, make it a special choice. Otherwise, go for a good bottle of sparkling wine, an ice wine or cider, or a unique liqueur.
• Local products:We love local! Offer your host an individual product, or make a gourmet basket with items such as vinegars, oils, mixes for crêpes or hot chocolate, pâtés, spice blends, etc. For more ideas, visit the site of Terroirs Québec.
• Beauty products:Who can resist a lovely assortment of soaps, scented candles or bath salts? Here’s a fine opportunity for your hard-working hosts to pamper themselves after the party’s over.
• For the kitchen:Consider offering the gourmet cook in your life the latest book by a chef everyone’s talking about. A cute little accessory also makes a great gift, such as an ornamental timer, a glowing potato peeler, an oil mister, a mortar and pestle for grinding spices, etc.
• Games:Is your host fond of wine? Why not offer a winetasting game? You’ll also be giving them a reason to invite you back to play!