Organizing and hosting a holiday gathering is a significant undertaking. Whether you’re staying with in-laws for a weekend or attending a coworker’s holiday soiree, express your gratitude for their hospitality by presenting them with a host gift a little more unique than a bottle of wine or a box of chocolate truffles. There are dozens of boutique vendors around the Minneapolis/St. Paul area where you can find elegant, thoughtful gifts for all your generous hosts this holiday season. Here are some of our favorite picks.
Pearled Wine Coaster from Ampersand
Located in Edina’s Galleria mall, Ampersand is the Twin Cities’ premiere lifestyle goods boutique. There is no end of sophisticated host gifts to be found on Ampersand’s display tables, but we think this pearled wine coaster is an elegant accessory for any frequent entertainer.
Mahogany Wood Bottle Opener from Woodchuck
Produced out of a warehouse in Dinkytown, Woodchuck’s lines of 100% real wood products have gone national, picked up by both Target and Best Buy within the company’s first two years. This bottle opener is a beautiful artifact of homegrown Minnesotan craftsmanship.
Antler Holiday Cards from Brown Ink
From Thank You notes to “Thinking of you…” notes, the holiday season offers endless occasions that call for a handwritten card. Your host will appreciate this charming and bold set of six blank cards appropriate for any occasion throughout the season.
Pumpkin Peppercorn Candle from Illume
A candle may seem as unique a gift as a bottle of wine, but Illume’s signature fragrances set them apart from the standard Bath and Body Works variety. This sweetly spiced pumpkin scent is warm and festive, perfect for the holiday season. You can find Illume candles at a number of boutiques around town, or online.
Truffle EVOO from Oilerie
Hand bottled in Italy, Oilerie’s extra virgin olive oil is some of the very best in the world. A drizzle of the truffle olive oil will add a gourmet finish to any dish, from salad to potatoes to steak. EVOO is a practical but sophisticated choice for a host gift, one that will be unexpected but undoubtedly appreciated.
