Tips & Tricks: Finding the Right Hostess Gift (and Getting it on the Airplane)

I am going to visit SH's family next week, and I have been brainstorming for weeks about what I would like to take as a hostess gift!

Marthastewart.com has some great ideas, a few of which are listed below. See article here. Some of the ideas I liked most would be difficult or impossible to take on an airplane, namely the "Hot-Sauce Hostess Gift" and "Fresh Peach Infused Vinegar" but they would be great for a closer trip. 

Ideas include:

• Taper Candles
• Hand-Made/ Personalized Coasters
• Home-Made Pasta
• Wine or Other Spirits
• A Geographically Famous Item (Such as Ghirardelli Chocolate from San Francisco)
• A Hand-Made Kindle Cover (Assuming the Hostess has a Kindle!)

Ideas that I like if you know your hostess pretty well, and have an idea of what her decor/style/scent preferences are, include:

• Scented Candle 
• Christmas Tree Ornament
• Picture Frame with a Nice Photo
• Hostess' Favorite Candy
• Tea Towels

Remember, presentation is (almost) just as important as the gift. Even when people have given me squashed wrapped gifts that took a little wear and tear in the suitcase or carry-on, I appreciate the effort and thought they put into wrapping it. Personalize your gift as best you can, perhaps with some nice wrapping or twine, and a thoughtful card. Don't leave it to the last minute (which I am often guilty of doing!) You'll thank yourself when the gift-giving time comes.

What are your favorite hostess gifts to give and/or receive?