This is a small group, but the host is the CEO of a company, and his wife. They are Mormon, and I am pretty sure they don't drink so I can't bring wine. What should we bring? Thanks !
2006-11-17 06:51:38 · 23 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
A gift is almost required for this kind of occasion--this sounds like something that would require a gift on the same scale as an anniversary present. If you think in that direction then it might give you some more ideas.
Some Mormons do drink wine and caffeine, but if you don't know for sure then it is a good idea to avoid them.
I would look for something elegant like a cut crystal vase, with a dry floral arraignment. You can buy the vase and then go to a florist and ask them to make an arraignment for you. Or you could do it yourself, if you are skilled in that area.
A pair of pumpkin pies (use Libby Pie Mix) would give that homemade touch. If you follow the instructions on the can they are very easy to make. You could buy a pie, or a cake, but the homemade touch would be better. This isn't a "pot luck" dinner so I wouldn't try to bring anything except a desert course and of course you want to present it in a dish that you expect them to keep, and tell her that she doesn't have to worry about returning anything.
You can have your husband contact his boss or you can contact her yourself and ask her if you can bring a centerpiece for the table. If you coordinate with her in advance then it will show you care, and she can make room for it at the table. Make sure that the arraignment you get is a low one. Most floral shops can help you with this.
You could bring a nice set of linen napkins or a beautiful salt and pepper set--that could be easily put on the table. A silver candle set with a set of nice candles would also be nice.
I guess the best rule would be simple and elegant. People are more impressed with this kind of gift. Remember, if you seem to be spending a lot of money then the gift will look like a clumsy attempt at a bribe, a modest gift would be the best, and of course you want to avoid something tacky.
2006-11-17 07:17:14 · answer #1 · answered by Dan S 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Flowers or you can call ahead of time and tell the CEO's wife that you would like to bring a floral arrangement for the table and ask what kind would she like. She'll be flattered to do one less thing for the get-together and you would have covered your gift. If she says she already has an arrangement, you have just opened the door to ask her for any suggestions...... :-)
2006-11-17 15:35:51 · answer #2 · answered by whadda-dingo-gal 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Definitely bring a gift for the hostess. There are lots of ideas besides alcohol. Gift basket, cake, candles, art book, plant, chocolates, soap, flowers are always good too.
2006-11-17 18:00:26 · answer #3 · answered by Pepper's Mommy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well a bottle of wine was what was in my mind until I read your entire question. I'd take a great box of chocolates. Flowers are nice, but only if they are already in a vase. You don't want your hostess to have to stop her dinner preparations to find a vase.
2006-11-18 08:05:58 · answer #4 · answered by Classy Granny 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
While you do not "need" a hostess gift, it is a great way to say "thank you for inviting us into your home". As for what to bring, I think a home baked goodie would be appropriate. Flowers are always wonderful too.
2006-11-17 17:25:02 · answer #5 · answered by lunachick 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Always bring something. You might consider a nonalcoholic drink in a wine style bottle. It looks festive. Look for something like Martinelli's apple cider. During Christmas they also make a cranapple cider.
2006-11-17 14:54:28 · answer #6 · answered by travelguruette 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
it is customary to bring the hostess a gift. often wine is thought as an all occasion gift. coffee or candies also make acceptable offerings for your hostess.
2006-11-17 15:23:53 · answer #7 · answered by liam l 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A type of dessert? Flowers perhaps or a box of candy. And not the cheap kind. Go to a nice candy store for a box of candy.
2006-11-17 14:55:41 · answer #8 · answered by sheeny 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
A nice house plant always works. Maybe a baby xmas tree ?
2006-11-17 14:57:45 · answer #9 · answered by skwonripken 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
"Lights of the season" would be my choice but I would have a hurricane candle in the center. Order it early and have it delivered as close to the time of party as possible so its good and fresh. With the smell of the evergreens it should be well appreciated. Have fun!!
2006-11-17 17:21:26 · answer #10 · answered by serious 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋