The next few months are packed with Friendsgivings, Thanksgivings, Secret Santas, White Elephants, and endless holiday get-togethers. While not every event requires a gift-especially if it's held at a restaurant-it’s always a good idea to show appreciation when you’re invited into someone’s home.
Our Gifting Rule of Thumb
As experts in intentional gifting, we always recommend showing up with something thoughtful if you're attending a gathering in someone’s home. But we get it-finding the right gift can feel like just another task during an already busy season.
Yes, a bottle of wine works-but only if your hosts drink alcohol! If you’re looking to go beyond the usual and impress your hosts with something creative, we’ve got you covered.
We pulled together our favorite DIY gift ideas from our Amazon List and beautiful pre-curated options from our gift shop. Choose based on your time, budget, and how hands-on you want to be.
Every shop gift includes a handwritten note and beautiful packaging. Some even include product swaps and add-ons so you can personalize them even more!
CLICK HERE FOR OUR CURATED SHOP!
1. Dress Up a Wooden Cutting Board or Cookbook
This gift idea is fun, easy, and endlessly customizable. Choose a pretty cutting board, a cookbook (we love Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Table), or a set of kitchen towels.
Pro Tip: Add a sprig of rosemary, lavender, or seasonal greenery to elevate the presentation.
See our favorite cutting boards and cookbooks on Amazon
Prefer to skip the DIY?
Our Culinary Garden Gift Box includes a cookbook, herb garden seeds, and a pull-and-pinch herb dish-all beautifully packaged with a handwritten note.
2. A Neutral-Scented Candle
Candles are always a win-but make sure they’re clean-burning and not overpowering. Neutral scents like linen, amber, or sea salt are universally loved.
Browse our favorite Amazon candles here
Want it already wrapped and ready?
Try our best-selling curated candle gifts-you pick the scent and we’ll handle the packaging and handwritten note.
3. A Gift Basket of Thoughtful Goodies
Put together a small open basket with items like hand soap, linen spray, a cozy towel, or a mini cutting board. Go with a theme-spa night, kitchen refresh, or cozy comforts.
DIY your basket from our Amazon list
Not into DIY?
Check out our full gift box collection for ideas that fit every style and budget. No assembly required.
4. Your Signature Dish on a Keepable Platter
If you’re bringing a dish to the party, why not serve it on a beautiful platter that doubles as a gift?
Pro Tip: Keep a few extra platters on hand. We love simple white ones that match any home aesthetic.
Shop serving platters on Amazon
Want to level it up? Create a charcuterie board using our favorite serving boards and this tutorial from Joyful Healthy Eats to learn how to build one like a pro.
Allergy Tip: Ask your hosts about dietary restrictions before including items like cheese, nuts, or gluten.
Another idea is a DIY charcuterie board with the boards we have in our Amazon list and Joyful Healthy Eats amazing blog to learn how to make an epic holiday board!
Wrap-Up: A Season for Thoughtful Giving
We hope this roundup helps you bring a little extra joy and creativity to your hostess gifts this season. Whether you're DIY-ing or grabbing a curated box from our shop, gifting is a beautiful way to say “thank you.”
Don’t forget to tag us @lavenderandpinegifting on Instagram if you share your creations!
Questions? Reach out via our contact form or email us directly at hello@lavenderandpinegifting.com.