Wherever your family is headed this season, don’t show up for dinner or a holiday party empty-handed…use our trusty gift guide and arrive prepared with a thoughtful token of appreciation for your host and/or hostess. While we would never turn down a good bottle of wine, try to make things a bit more personal this year with evergreen gifts that keep on giving. Check out our list below for instant inspiration:

Newlyweds: Your newlywed friends have just settled into their new home and are thrilled to be hosting their first holiday bash. Show them you appreciate their hospitality with gorgeous monogrammed accessories for their home, like these stunning wood serving trays – perfect for when hosting cocktail parties!

Siblings: Nothing says “I love my sibling(s)” like a good old-fashioned photo album or scrapbook chalk full of embarrassing, hilarious and tender family moments.  Rather than a measly gift card or other last minute presents, invest your time in creating an heirloom gift for your sibling who’s hosting Christmas diner this year.  Including your kids in the process will make for even more family memories!

Sometimes the only way to make it through a holiday dinner with your parents or in-laws is with an ungodly amount of alcohol (we aren’t alone on this one, right?) Instead of showing up double-fisted with your favorite spirit, wrap up a lovely decanter and hope your favorite drunk uncle brought the wine! Trust us, your parents will appreciate the gift long after the holidays are over.

Grandparents: Some of our favorite holiday host gifts for grandparents are not sold in stores! This season, get the kids – even the whole family – involved in a personalized DIY present for Grandma and Grandpa that can be used the very same day. Here are our favorites:

Best Friends: Enjoying a holiday meal or sipping a cocktail at your bestie’s holiday party is what the season is all about! Your years of friendship seem to have passed by in the blink of an eye, and while you may not be able to ever thank her enough, show her how much you love with a witty item like this:

Neighbors: A little gift can go a long way when it comes to making your neighbor happy! The next time you play your music too loud or need someone to feed the dogs while on vacation, your neighbors are sure to remember your gift of goodwill. Surprise them with stunning home and garden décor pieces they can enjoy year-round.

Extended Family Members: It’s easy to accidentally forget a gift for extended family members, especially when cousins are involved!  Our suggestion is to always have a backup supply of evergreen gifts tucked away for when unexpected kids or adults wind up on your shopping list! Shop smart this Christmas and buy in bulk when the price is right.  You’ll never regret spreading more holiday cheer to those you love.

Co-workers: Bonding with co-workers outside of the office often makes for strong friendships long after punching the clock.  Show your colleague how much you appreciate them hosting dinner or cocktails with gifts that are sure to perk up their workweek.  Here’s what we have in mind:

The post Holiday Host/Hostess Gift Guide appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

The holiday season is here and it is the time of year to celebrate your blessings with all of the special people in your life. Whether you are planning a holiday party with your besties, a small but fancy dinner with family, or a celebration that includes anyone and everyone, there are a few tips that will take the stress out of planning the fantastic, memorable event you’re dreaming about… because the real point of the holidays is truly enjoying the time with your loved ones.

1.  Use Personalized Party Supplies

Custom party decorations will make your celebration feel extra special – and even though it sounds like more work, there’s a way it can leave you with extra time to eat, drink and be merry! You can achieve the DIY look without actually having to do it. Choose one or two must-do crafts and then “cheat” with rest of the décor with products that just look DIY. This isn’t as expensive as it sounds – and it will look like a million bucks!

2.  Scout Out Décor

Take a walk around your house and see your home decorations in a new way. Maybe the candlesticks you have by the fireplace will make a great centerpiece – or the vase you tucked in the corner will make a great container for colorful candies. If you are still struggling to find fun pieces, don’t be afraid to call a friend and see what they have. You will be able to stay in your party budget and won’t have to store all of the decorations afterward.

3.  Easy Activities to Entertain Guests

You have everything planned out and on track for the perfect party – then BAM! the guests start to arrive and you are suddenly scrambling to get everyone introduced, dinner plated, and drinks poured. Giving your guests a simple and fun party activity will take the stress off you to break the ice so your event can run smoothly. A Gratitude Tree is the perfect choice for this time of year. Offer fun shaped cut-outs along with markers and some string. Then have guests write something they are thankful for and hang it on a twiggy tree. Everyone will enjoy reading them and you can even save them for upcoming years as you add to your tree of thanks.

4.  Plan to Prep Ahead

With the right menu, you will be able to prepare most of your event beforehand, leaving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the day. Treat boxes and snack cups are easy to fill the morning of then place at the beverage bar for guests to enjoy. Favor boxes can double as table decor when you use them at each placesetting. Fill them ahead of time with delicious wrapped chocolates. Use a decadent dessert wine after dinner paired with the chocolates and you won’t have to worry about pies or cakes.

The number one rule of planning a memorable party is to have fun! When you celebrate with cherished friends and family, you are guaranteed a good time – no matter what. So relax and enjoy yourself. This really is the most wonderful time of the year (so don’t stress)!

ABOUT BIG DOT OF HAPPINESS

Big Dot of Happiness a one-stop party shop dedicated to making all of life’s occasions memorable. An in-house design team works hard to offer only the best party themes, complete with pre-made and do-it-yourself supplies so you can have the celebration of your dreams. The professional print team ensures even personalized party supplies ship within 24 hours of the order date. A custom party doesn’t have to be planned months in advance – just dot along with us and together we will make it happen! www.bigdotofhappiness.com

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