Host and Hostess Gifts
"It's always proper etiquette to bring a host gift, even if it's something small, like a box of mints or a bottle of wine," says etiquette expert Diane Warner, author of "Diane Warner's Big Book of Parties". "Unfortunately, this traditional rule of etiquette isn't always followed today, especially for large, informal parties."
Although the gift of a bottle of wine is always in season, why not consider these creative alternatives?
  | Complement a bottle of wine with a set of wine charms. |
| Create a breakfast basket lined with gingham and filled with homemade bread, an assortment of sample-sized jams and Folgers® coffee. |
| Make a family movie snack kit with a variety of flavored gourmet popcorn, Pringles®, Jordan almonds and chocolates. |
| Tuck an assortment of homemade holiday treats into a decorative tin. |
Regardless of what you bring as a thank-you, never forget to give from the heart. A personal touch means the gift you select will mean that much more to the receiver.
Sticking to a Diet During the Holidays
A good way to help head off temptation is to have a light, healthy snack or drink several glasses of water before you go to the party. If you're slightly full, you'll be less likely to overindulge. An alternative to abstinence is bringing your own appetizer or dish, made with diet-friendly ingredients.
The good news for low-carb dieters is that many popular party foods are naturally low in carbohydrates — cold cuts, meatballs, cheeses, nuts and vegetable crudités among them.
Help Your Host
Whether you're bringing side dishes or appetizers, simple is the rule. Complex dishes can mean a hassle for your host, and the last thing she needs is another person underfoot in the kitchen, or to be distracted from her guests by requests for serving dishes, utensils or a quick heat-up in the oven.
These quick-fix appetizers are always crowd-pleasers:
| Decorative fruit-and-cheese platter |
| Deviled eggs |
| Crab-stuffed cherry tomatoes |
| Smoked salmon with crackers, capers and onions |
| Chilled shrimp platter with lemon and dipping sauce |
R.S.V.P. With Style
Don't worry if you have to decline an invitation — no other season of the year is as busy as the holidays, and most hosts will completely understand. Just be sure not to forget — declining is fine, but you don't want to be a no-show.
A quick phone call to let the host know you can't attend is fine, Warner says, or you can send a handwritten note. And if you have to miss a particularly special party, it's a great excuse for you to entertain in January!
