I have an interview scheduled for a doctoral program. 2 of the current graduate students (an engaged couple) offered to pick me up from the airport and let me stay at their home for 2 nights. I do not know them from a hole in the wall, but thought it would be nice to bring them a small thank-you gift. I would like to spend between $30-$50. I thought about a nice bottle of wine, but then my husband pointed out that they might not drink wine. The only thing that I know about the couple is that the woman enjoys cooking. Any ideas? Do you think that giving a gift is appropriate or weird?
2007-01-22 15:00:12 · 11 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
I am from Long Island, NY traveling to Mississippi. If I purchased wine for them I would get it from a local winery. I would love to bring a gift basket, but worry that it would be difficult to transport.
2007-01-22 15:07:41 · update #1
I think a Gift would be appropriate and not weird at all
I think that something from NY would be better since it's an out of state gift that they can't just buy where they live.
I would get some small Local things to give them. Something that Says " NY" on it. Some Magnets, nick nacks, maybe something you like so it remind them of you.
You can Look up the Town that you're traveling into, and see what type of Resuarants are in the local area. This might spark some Ideas for some Gifts.
You could map quest their house to see what is around them locally.
Wine would be a Good Gift, because Even if they don't drink it, They might just put it out for show, a conversation starter, they could Regift it, and it's not too personal but shows you put some Effort into getting them something.
They might have Food allergies, or Flower Allergies so you would want to be careful if you get them a gift basket of food.
If she likes Cooking then you might search online to see of there is something that is Unique for cooking. Like an Extraordinary Apple Slicer or something that people don't see everyday.
Maybe a Good Muti recipe Cook book.
What about a Flavored Gourmet Popcorn selection? That's different.
Gourmet Coffee Flavors..... but that would be kinda weird if they hate Coffee, so maybe not.
Although, if you can't think of anything to get them from NY you might try this.
What if, you got there the first day and See what the house looked like to see what type of people they are. Then the second day you are staying with them, purchased something for them then you would have some Idea of their life style. Do they collect a certain thing or Love cows or something like that.
Good Luck
2007-01-22 15:26:00 · answer #1 · answered by hot chick 25 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You could get them a candle set. This will not only be warming in the winter and smell nice, but it can be quite romanitc for them.
You could also give them a fruit basket. Buy a wide rimmed basket, a pinnapple, maybe some mangos, some mixed nuts, perrier water, cheese (sharp cheddar, brei, or stilton are good choices) and fill the basket with the goodies.
You could also give them a $50 gift card to a resteraunt or a bookstore near you so they can go pick out something together they would like.
And i think it is entirely appropriate, and very sweet on your part. It shows you are grateful and its extendinjg a friendly hand as well.
2007-01-22 15:06:42 · answer #2 · answered by Melissa M 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not at all weird, very appropriate, your hostess will really appreciate it. Fresh flowers are always good, but if you're flying that won't work. How about some nice soap and hand towels for their kitchen or bathroom, or a new cookbook? Or maybe a gift card for a gourmet catalog, like Williams-Sonoma, along with the catalog so they can pick out their own gift? Good chocolates are also always appreciated.
Have a good trip and good luck at your interview.
2007-01-22 15:11:50 · answer #3 · answered by mom of 2 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Where are you from. Maybe a gift of local treats. I'm from Oregon so I would give a nice bottle of Oregon wine and some jams and jellies from Oregon Berries. The wine is still a good idea because even if people don't drink it they will likely entertain some time and need it.
2007-01-22 15:04:11 · answer #4 · answered by alwaysmoose 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is never anything wrong with giving a nice bottle of wine. Even if they don't drink wine, it's the easiest thing to re-gift!
In addition, I would get them some sort of "knick-knack." I always like going to a small, local shop or to a Fair Trade store, and getting a decorative item that has a bit of a story to it. A candle holder, decorate bowl, or a funky kitchen accessory.
2007-01-22 15:19:00 · answer #5 · answered by Mel 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think that a fruit and nut gift basket would be very nice. Or you could go with a nice cookie/candy tower. I'm sure your friends parents will greatly appreciate the gesture. Hope you have a great Holiday Season!!
2016-03-14 22:30:37 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it would be lovely for you to give a gift.It would not be strange as they are putting out their home for you, and you are giving a token of appreciation. Redenvelope.com has a lot of nice gifts.A lovely frame is a nice gift and not too personal.You might also give a gift certificate to a lovely restaurant in their area.
Good luck!
2007-01-22 15:13:26 · answer #7 · answered by gia b 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's very appropriate to bring a gift and I love the idea of a gift basket full of regional gourmet goodies from your home town.
2007-01-22 15:07:49 · answer #8 · answered by Sara 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What about some really pretty guest soaps? Or a gift basket of baking mixes/teas/etc. from Williams Sonoma?
2007-01-22 15:30:33 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
i think a bottle of wine from a vineyard in your local area would be a good choice (even if they dont drink, they would be able to keep it for when entertaining). I would also grab a few things from your local area to showcase your home town/state. Maybe some nuts that are grown there, some produce, oils, a travel guide, etc.
If the women enjoys cooking, maybe a 3 pack of good olive oil (different flavours etc).
2007-01-22 15:25:05 · answer #10 · answered by Minerva 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋