Summer Surprises For The Host & Hostess

Invited to a Summer dinner party or weekend getaway and not sure what to bring? Here's inspiration that is guaranteed to get you asked back again and again.

HERE : 15 Haute Host & Hostess Gifts

Salad Days Gift Box
Summers are for salads.  Supersize theirs with fab finds like Fig Balsamic Vinegar, Maple Sherry Bourbon Vinegar, Meyer Lemon Salt, a Wooden Spoon trio and so much more!
Domino  

White On Bright Personalized Notepads

Haute Papier's paper pads are the perfect addition to any desktop or chic counter. This is a gift that they will actually use. 
Zhush   

Mario Luca Giusti Outdoor Drinkware

No more broken glasses! I have seen these in person. Unless you pick them up, you have no idea that they aren't crystal. A pretty and practical gift for pool parties and alfresco dinner hosts.

Gracious Style

Metallic Pineapple Tumbler
Give your host an insta-vacation with a pair of these. In copper or silver, these tumblers make a happy home for any cocktail. By the way, the pineapple is the symbol of hospitality. 
Food52  

Kiss Cocktail Napkins
Your host will kiss and tell everyone where they got these. I am a bit obsessed with them.
Kelly Wearstler  

Ghost Ship Kite XL Model
Haptic Labs' cool kite is really a functional work of art. "Each kite is handcrafted by a certified Fair Trade group in collaboration with Balinese artisans." The perfect gift for a sailor or a family with active kids. They will think that their ship came in!
A + R Store 

The Greatest Guest
If you want that title, bring this. Each item is unique and delicious. Think Pineapple Lime Cocktail Mixer, Smoked Cola Gumdrops, Mission Almond Butter, White Truffle Popcorn and so much more. It's all served up in a good looking tote, so no gift wrapping required.
Mouth.com 

Alchemy Collection Votive Holder
Votive holders can be a dime a dozen, but these are unique. Love that they are metal which makes them patio perfect. By the way, they are no quite a dime but are super affordable. 
Burke Decor    

Kate Spade New York Wine Tags

These are great to have around the house. They will turn any bottle of bubbly into the toast of the town!
Swoozies 

Handmade Tamales
Send your weekend offering before you arrive. These tamales are terrific! You can only find them at
Neiman Marcus   

Giant Yard Dice
You'll be the life of the party and the good times will roll with this artisan made game. 
Uncommon Goods 

Wine Lovers Herb Garden Kit
A creative kit for wine lovers (i.e. almost everyone). It comes with a booklet of wine pairings for herb seasoned dishes. I bet they don't have one of these!
Shop Terrain   

Enamel Candle Tumblers
Candles have become a bit expected, but the truth is everyone loves them. These fragrances are so unique and perfect for Summer. Think Grapefruit Oleander, Pineapple Cilantro, Blackberry Absinthe and other perfect pairings. The unbreakable containers travel indoors or out and can be repurposed after the 70 hour burn time.  Love these.
Illume Candles  

Brunch Market Bag
Going for the weekend? Pack up this bag with wine, flowers, and goodies from the Farmers Market. Present it all upon arrival. Your host will love the way it looks chic and effortless on display at home.
Lulu & Georgia  

Beaches By Gray Malin
This is your "shore" thing gift if visiting a friend's beach or lake house. The photographer points his lens at coastal landscapes from Chicago to Capetown.
Amazon



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Wedding Wednesday: What To Wear To A Summer Soiree

This is the first Summer in a long time that I don't have a wedding on the calendar. If I did, I would most certainly be looking for a new outfit. My own party picks have seen a few too many dance floors. Any Summer soiree is a good time to respect the occasion and dress up. Here's inspiration.

ASOS Wedding Dresses
Three dresses, each one fabulously floral. All of them are budget buys in the best of ways!
 ASOS  

Macie Dress
Painterly pretty, and ever so feminine! It's less than $200.
BHLDN    

Ted Baker Julee Midi Dress
This beautiful bodycon dress is a chic choice for a daytime or garden wedding.
ASOS  

Jenza Pleat Wrap Dress
Having a feminine flourish and a sophisticated vibe, this look is a perfect choice for daytime and evening. It's reasonably priced.
Coast Fashion   

Marchesa Notte
So romantic and fanciful with a floral bodice. The high low hem adds the drama.
Dress   Jan Tran Headband

Lace Off The Shoulder Dress
Here's your little black dress for Summer. You will love the "little" price tag. Only online.
H & M     

Rubin Singer Striped Cocktail Dress
As seen on Red Carpets everywhere on the likes of Gigi Hadid, Geena Davis and more. His gowns are expensive but the styling reflects the price. This number is my pick of the edit.
Neiman Marcus 

Vince Camuto Shift Dress
An easy look with slightly sexy details. The shift could look even dressier with pointy toe pumps or strappy stilettos.
Nordstrom

 

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