Are you at a loss as to what you should give your hostess as a thank you? Flowers and wine have been done over and over, and you want something that shows your appreciation. Something you make yourself with that particular person in mind will be so appreciated.

Find out what you hostess is fond of. Does she like to cook? An apron that you make and decorate with her in mind would be wonderful. You can embellish it with little items and drawings, and perhaps embroider her name on it. A gift of a blank recipe book engraved with her name is special, too. Perhaps a recipe of your own that she has commented on, with the ingredients in a pretty glass jar? You can fill a basket with items such as a package of her favorite coffee, tea, or other drink. Add a few homemade cookies, little jars of jams and jellies, and a coffee cup that you have stenciled her name on.

Handmade votive or pillar candles are always welcome. Special scents can be added for a personal touch. Wrap them in a pretty box, and include matches that you have decorated with die cut stickers. If you have pretty teacups you can make a beautiful candle by pouring beeswax into the cup, adding a wick and scent, and glueing the cup to a matching saucer. Even if the cup is missing the saucer it will just as attractive.

Make lotions with ingredients that you can purchase at most craft stores. Color and scent them, and pour them into a unique bottle.  Place a label on the neck of the bottle listing the ingredients and the scent name. Tie a pretty bow at the neck of the bottle, and you have a fantastic DIY hostess gift. Every time she uses it she will think of you.

Bath salts or crystals are another good gift to give your hostess.  Everyone bathes, and a gift like this will be so appreciated come bath time. Make your own with recipes you can find anywhere, or purchase ready made and place them in little gift boxes or fancy bottles to make them extra special.

Everyone loves candy. Why not make fudge or peanut brittle and place it in a special container such as a basket or jar. Include the recipe hand written on a thank you card, or include a recipe that you are fond of making.

Holiday gift jars make great DIY hostess gifts.  Filled with anything from candy, nuts or dried fruits, or the ingredients to a cookie recipe with instructions attached, these gift jars make wonderful hostess thank you’s.

Anything handmade shows that you have taken the time to learn about what she likes and has use for. These gifts come from the heart, and are far better than anything you could buy at a store. It is a truly wonderful way to say thank you and to show that you appreciate all she has done for you.