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I'm Asking: If You're Hosting, Do You Expect a Gift?

SavvySugar — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 06:00:41 -0800

I've always been taught not to show up to a party, dinner party, luncheon - you name it - empty handed. It seems like a pretty easy thing to do, just bring flowers, a box of candy, a bottle of wine, or some other treat along with you. It also always seemed to me, the right thing to do, since wherever I was headed, I was being entertained, someone was making dinner for me, or providing apps and drinks. Still, when you're cash-strapped, it's a lot easier said than done.

As holiday costs add up, even every little thing matters. It may seem like a much bigger deal to grab a bottle of wine or a bouquet of flowers now than it does in the Spring or Summer when there are fewer functions and a whole lot fewer expenses. Still, when I'm on hostess duty, I always appreciate the thoughtful friends who bring something along. Even if it's just a simple dessert, muffins they've baked themselves, candy - it doesn't have to be fancy, but it definitely makes a big difference. I wouldn't say I've come to expect a gift when entertaining, but I definitely notice the ones who do make an extra effort. How about you, when you've planned and prepped for guests to come over, do you expect them to bring a little something for you? Especially around the holidays, are hostess gifts important?

Is It Rude to Regift?

SavvySugar — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:45:10 -0800

Have you stashed away disappointing holiday gifts from last year only to disguise them as new presents for others this year? If so, you're not alone. According to Time, a recent Consumer Report survey suggests that 36 percent of holiday gifters will be regifters this season, passing along unwanted or unneeded items from season's past.

Sure, the idea's a guaranteed money and time saver. It also ensures that nothing unwanted goes to waste - or does it? If you didn't like the gift in the first place, what makes you so sure someone else is going to? Unless of course he or she is dying for whatever item you've previously rejected and are wrapping up this year. And of course, there's always the risk that the original gift-giver pays you a visit this year, and looks for the special present she gave you last year to ensure that it's being used and loved.

Well, obviously there's a certain art form and etiquette to the whole regifting process, and if you're smart about how you regift, you'll probably get away with it, no questions asked. So tell me, is regifting something you do? Or is it rude to give hand-me-down presents from past holidays?

5 Fitting Presents For the Vegetarian Cook

YumSugar — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 05:50:00 -0800

Whether you're a vegetarian or not, going meatless is a growing trend, and you're certain to know a dear friend or family member who is. This holiday, show them you care by making selections that take subtle consideration of their lifestyle choices. For some practical - yet delightful! - presents to suit any budget, keep reading.

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5 Fabulous Gifts For the Do-It-Herself Hostess

partysugar — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 07:50:27 -0800

She's the girl who makes snake cakes in her sleep. The gal who sends twenty-five handmade birthday invitations to a four course sit-down dinner that she cooks. She's already obsessing about her Thanksgiving menu and testing out Christmas cocktails. You know who I'm talking about, she's the hostess who does it all and she's giving Martha Stewart a run for her money. Always on top of things, this fun-loving gal is easy to shop for. Here are my holiday gifting suggestions for the party-princess in your life.

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Fantasy Gifts Get Made-Under

SavvySugar — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:00:57 -0700

So maybe you weren't actually going to purchase the $20 million submarine for sale in the Neiman Marcus Christmas catalog, but it doesn't hurt to look, right? Well, actually that may not be the case, anymore. In light of the recession, retailers are scaling back fantasy gifts traditionally offered around the holidays. Take a peek at the scaled-down luxury gifts of the season.

Photos courtesy of Neiman Marcus and Source

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Emergency Kit Hostess Gift: Brilliant or Baffling?

SavvySugar — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 08:30:06 -0700

Practicality is en mode these days, but I'm wondering if the makers of Ice-Qube preparedness kits (priced $20 and up) are taking the rational focus a little too far. The company says:

Finding the perfect gift is tricky, but emergency preparedness is always welcomed. Whether heading off to a dinner party, going to a small get together or escaping to the country, why not bring the host something they need because there are some of life's events even the best host can not prepare for.

There's a whole line of kits, including products designated for home, office, baby, and pet. The company thinks the Ice-Qube is the "must have hostess gift of the season." What do you think of the idea of gifting an emergency kit - is it brilliant or baffling?

10 Father's Day Gifts Under $25

SavvySugar — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 06:30:36 -0700

The last thing your proud pop would want is for you to overextend your budget on a present for him. Time together is the best way to spend Father's Day, but when you don't live near your dad or just want to do something extra, a gift is a good way to express your appreciation. Check out these gifts that won't bust your tight budget with their $25 price point.

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Your Two Cents: Should Couples Expect Wedding Gifts?

SavvySugar — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:30:16 -0700

Wedding etiquette is remarkably touchy and unfortunately complex in some social circles. Some of the tension is centered in the gift-giving ritual, which is a way for guests to help the couple complete their home together.

According to a survey by market research company GfK, 90 percent of people who attended weddings in the past two years said they bought gifts, while just 28 percent of couples said they expected to receive them. Some respondents suggested it's rude to assume guests will give gifts, while others don't think it's fair to the couple if a gift isn't given.

Do You Still Buy Birthday Gifts For Your Friends?

SavvySugar — Tue, 12 May 2009 12:00:05 -0700

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Are You Giving Your Mom the Gift of Time For Mother's Day?

SavvySugar — Fri, 08 May 2009 08:30:42 -0700

Moms are synonymous with TLC, so showing them appreciation on Mother's Day is the least we can do. ABC News polled moms across the country about what they want for their holiday, and instead of flowers or candy most responded with things like help around the yard or house, homemade meals cooked by someone else, and quality time with the family.

While ABC credits the recession for moms' desire to choose time over material gifts this Mother's Day, I question if the economy really has much to do with their answers. Time with their kids is hardly a gift moms typically take for granted. What do you think - are you spending time with your mom because it's free, or because that's the best gift around?

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