What to Bring to Holiday Gatherings

Happy almost Thanksgiving! Have you ever noticed the people who host holidays can be the hardest to shop for? It can often be tricky to figure out what to bring to contribute or at least to thank the host. I have a tendency to overthink gift giving which is the worst thing to do. Instead, stay practical! What does your family as a whole love? Or, if you’re meeting up with your “friend” family, what would make sense for the entire group?

Wine
Wine is never a bad idea. Unless, of course, your host doesn’t drink or has an allergy. In that case, skip the wine. Ok, easy enough...wine...but what kind? For starters, don’t blow your monthly salary to buy an impressive bottle. There are plenty of decent affordable wines out there.

If you’re looking for a bottle of white, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc are safe bets. For reds, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, or Grenache tend to be a little more palate-friendly. If you know the menu ahead of time, look into pairing suggestions so the host can offer it with dinner if they choose. Rose is traditionally a summer wine but if you know it’s going to be a crowd-pleaser, bring your favorite bottle. Even better, the host's favorite bottle!

A good note to remember is to stay away from anything bone dry or super sweet. You want a wine that will be a bit more universal so the host can either keep it for themselves to enjoy or serve guests. If you have a favorite wine and aren’t comfortable guessing which other bottles might be good, pick up one or two of your favorite. It’s still a thoughtful gesture.

Food
This one is tricky and completely dependent on the holiday gathering. If it’s potluck style, the answer is whatever you're assigned or volunteered for. If the host is providing everything, check-in with them. Don’t just assume they need something and bring it. You do not want dueling green bean casseroles. Especially if one is Great Aunt Martha’s!

If you do bring something to pass, make sure it’s completely prepared before you arrive. Reassembly to make the dish pretty after travel is fine. The point is to avoid costing the host extra work they weren’t counting on. A few suggestions include: charcuterie boards, cheese platters, fruit salad, vegetable trays, easy appetizers, casseroles, sides, or desserts. Nothing will make me happier than someone offering to bring a dessert since baking is my least favorite thing to do.

Host/ess Gifts
If everything is handled or your host does not want or need you to bring a thing, go with a simple but thoughtful gift. Again, this does not need to blow your regular budget but it should be considerate. What does your host or hostess love? Do they need something?

Foodie gift sets you can find at places like Williams-Sonoma or Crate & Barrel are always fun. It’s always good to get personal if you can too. Does your hostess have a coffee addiction? Get her a new mug with a bag of your favorite blend. Does she enjoy pampering with spa at home days? Pick up a DIY spa kit so she can relax the next day. Is your host a traveler with an incurable sense of wanderlust? Books about a destination they’ve always wanted to visit or travel-sized packages are a great idea. The point is, know your host or hostess. Put some thought into a gift to thank them for putting together a wonderful party.

What is something you always bring to holiday gatherings?