'Tis the season for holiday parties! Let's talk about being a good guest.
If your host has left you with the ambiguous "just bring yourself" or "bring anything you'd like" instructions, then you're likely confused and unsure of what to bring. Let me help you!
I've been hosting Friendsgiving for 10+ years, and I'm ALWAYS grateful when my guests bring these things.
1. Containers for Leftovers. If your host typically sends you home with leftovers, then they would LOVE for you to arrive with arms full of containers that they can fill (I'll take one with turkey, Chestnut Stuffing, and Drop Biscuits). This saves them the burden of using their containers or purchasing some themselves.
2. A Bottle of Your Favorite Alcohol. An extra bottle of wine, case of beer, or bottle of spirits is the perfect thing to bring when you have no other ideas. Offer to serve it to other guests upon your arrival, or allow the hosts to keep it at the end of the party for their enjoyment. (For a certain crowd-pleaser, bring a big batch of Apple Cider Cocktails or Rum Punch.)
3. Useful Household Items. Yes, this one may feel strange, but your host will be grateful AND you won't have to show up empty-handed. Compile a bag full of household items that your host will be using in excess for the meal (dish soap, trash bags, cute cocktail napkins, kitchen towels, etc.).
4. Fancy Home Items. Bringing a small gift for the host that they wouldn't typically purchase themselves: a beautiful bouquet (bring it in a vase so they don't have to scramble for one in the middle of cooking), a cookbook with your favorite recipes (The Well Plated Cookbook makes an excellent gift!), or a fancy fall candle is always welcome.
5. Breakfast for the Next Day. After hosting a gathering, your hosts would likely love to not worry about making breakfast the next day. Prepare a dish (like Pumpkin Coffee Cake, Spinach Quiche, Apple Turnovers or Biscuit Cinnamon Rolls) that they can reheat and enjoy! Tip: Make sure to account for any overnight guests they may have staying with them.
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