12 of Our Favorite Summer Hostess Gifts That Aren’t a Bottle of Rosé

updated Jun 4, 2021
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Credit: Jen Grantham/Stocksy

With summer entertaining making a big comeback this year (and many of us reuniting with friends and family for the first time in a very long time), finding the right hostess gift is something that’s probably crossed your mind at least once. However, we’ve all been to those parties where the hostess receives so many different bottles of wine that her fridge looks like a liquor store shelf (not that this is necessarily a bad thing). So rather than opting for everyone’s go-to “thank you so much for having me” gift this summer, why not switch things up a bit by presenting your favorite hostess with something thoughtful and fresh? These creative alternatives are cute, practical, and cost roughly the same as your fave bottle of vino. Check out our favorite summer hostess gifts that say “thank you” in the most stylish way.

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Anthropologie
$14.00

When in doubt, a cult-favorite candle is a sure bet as a gift. Featuring a shimmering capiz vessel and a hammered metal lid, this mini candle will fill their space with the rich aroma of tropical fruits, sugared oranges, lemons and limes, redolent, and exotic mountain greens.

2 / 12
Bed Bath & Beyond
$9.99

These dishtowels are extremely useful but also adorable (they're also a great gift to split up into sets!). Odds are, your hostess will find herself using these nearly every day.

3 / 12
Amazon
$8.28

My friends and I absolutely love Harney & Sons teas, and I still enjoy making a cup before bed even when it's warm out. There are several flavors to choose from, but "Paris" is delish (and, okay, the jar also looks extra chic).

4 / 12
Lulu and Georgia
$15.00

You can't go wrong with this stylish white vase from designer favorite Lulu & Georgia. Gift it wrapped in tissue paper or fill it with a sunflower or two for an extra-sweet, seasonal touch.

5 / 12
Amazon
$6.49
was $13.99

Attending a cookout? Bring something your host can use right then and there, like this sleek gold grill spatula. They'll think of you every time they're outside flipping burgers!

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Urban Outfitters
$29.00

Warm tones + a '70s vibe = two of my absolute favorites, and likely a combo your host will appreciate, too! This petite tray is perfect for styling in a bathroom or on a nightstand.

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Bed Bath & Beyond
$24.00

Help make their future parties go off without a hitch by giving them the best prep tools. Featuring heavy-gauge stainless steel construction, this Simply Essential nesting mixing bowl set features three bowls complete with lids, fold-down rings for easy hanging, and measurements ingrained into the side for stress-free party prep.

8 / 12
Paper Source
$6.95

What's a party without cute cocktail napkins? Seriously, these will be the talk of the gathering and will more than likely end up on everyone's Instagram. Be sure to raise a glass for us.

9 / 12
Urban Outfitters
$18.00

Fill this adorable jar with her favorite candy and you have the perfect little present. She'll enjoy repurposing the container in the kitchen or anywhere else.

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Amazon
$12.95

The hostess who always complains about wine spills (her own, of course!) will appreciate curling up in bed with a good book and one of these sippy cups. They're also great for picnics, beach trips, and outdoor movie nights.

11 / 12
CB2
$19.95

With this knife set, your host will have the fanciest cheese plate on the block. This trio of tools, which includes a flat knife, fork-tipped spear, and spade, is dripping in gold for a truly glamourous entertaining experience.

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Anthropologie
$14.00

For a gift they can enjoy once all the guests have gone, wrap up this gorgeous Garden Tile mug. Made from handpainted and decaled stoneware, they'll think of you as they sip their coffee the next morning.

Sarah M. Vazquez also contributed to reporting.