Partying holiday-style is right up your alley, but braving hoards of holiday shoppers to search for the perfect hostess gift? Not so much. So before you cave in, grab that bottle of Pinot and just slap a bow on it, check out our list of some EASY fabulous hostess gifts to bring to your next fete.
Some are just a phone call away, and all will get you invited back next year.
When the holiday season comes to a close, even the most social host will welcome a chance to snuggle up on the couch with a pile of DVDs and a bucket of movie corn. Arm her with more than just the microwave variety and hit up Chef Central for Cuisinart’s Professional Popper to give movie night a more authentic feel. It’s vintage look pairs perfectly with some old school popcorn bags that might just be enough to make one feel they’ve been transported to Mann’s Chinese Theatre (or at least help them forget that they’re not watching in 3D). Throw in some gourmet kernels and fun toppings and you’ve got a great gift for the whole family to enjoy.
Popper, $59.99; bags $4 for a pack of 10
Chef Central (open til 11pm Christmas week)
Paramus Towne Square
240 Rte 17 North, Paramus
201-576-0100
Cleanliness is next to….well, you know, and your germaphobe pal will be thrilled when you present them with this paper-mache chest filled of single use soap chips. First choose from scents like lavender oatmeal and white grapefruit; then create a personalized message to be inscribed on the chest and wrappings. Short on time? Select one of the adorable standard options like “Wash Up!” and “Be Clean”
Priced per size, from $25; Gift wrap included
Available from Present Time gift service (Local Delivery Available!)
Call Ilene 917-439-0487 or email emmca@optonline.net
Santa may think you’re naughty, but we’ll still think you’re nice if these delicious chocolate-covered strawberries don’t make it to the party intact. Nothing says decadent like a platter from Mindy’s Munchies. With toppings ranging from toffee to crushed Oreos, these are sure to satisfy any elf’s sweet tooth.
$60 for a small platter
Mindy’s Munchies
215 River Vale Road, River Vale
201-664-1650
Get in good with the kids’ of the family and bring a gift that they can enjoy too. We love Chef Central’s make your own snowman kit. These plastic snowmen contain all the makings of a well-dressed Mr. Frosty, right down to the carrot nose. (snow not included).
$14.99 at Chef Central (open til 11pm Christmas week)
Paramus Towne Square
240 Rte 17 North, Paramus
201-576-0100
You know we couldn’t leave you without at least one wine gift idea. Not just any plain old bottle-a box of them. This half bottle sampler crate can be stocked with the varietal of your choice or hand-picked by a resident wine aficionado at Englewood Wine Merchants. Either way, it’s a great gift for those who like to taste (but we’ll be honest, with these wines, they’ll hardly stop at a sip). And although Englewood Wine Merchants might not be Santa, they offer the same great service as the jolly fellow – delivery right to your doorstep.
Wooden Crate Wine Sampler starting at $100 (local delivery available within 48 hours)
Englewood Wine Merchants
3 E. Palisade Avenue, Englewood
877-568-8820
So now you have no excuse for those tired, old hostess gifts and the perfect excuse to shop. Eat, drink and party the night away!
