Proper Host and Hostess Gift Etiquette, whether you're going to a dinner party, attending a holiday event in a coworker's home, or staying with someone for the weekend, you need to show your gratitude by bringing something to your hosts. Yes, it is still in vogue to bring a gift for the host or hostess when you go to a party or even a casual get-together.

The problem is that many people aren't confident in their knowledge of proper guest etiquette, so they feel uncomfortable having to decide what to give. Remember that the size or price of the gift is insignificant. What you need to focus on instead is what that person will like. It also needs to be appropriate for the situation. For example, a gift for a single person or a couple's dinner party would be different from what you'd gift a family that's hosting you for the weekend.

A hostess gift should be given in a pretty bag or box. Always include a gift tag so the host will know who gave it to her (or him).

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