12 Host or Hostess Gifts That Are Under $20

When you’re celebrating the holidays with friends and family, it’s easy to get swept away with gift-giving. As you’re picking out presents for your loved ones, offering your upcoming party host a thoughtful gift is another way to celebrate the season of giving.

We’ve pulled together a list of the best gifts for hosts that are under $20. These host gift ideas can also easily be found online, if you need to grab a last-minute gift.

1. Cheese knives

Digging into a giant wedge of brie or gouda can be tricky with everyday utensils. A set of cheese knives is a sophisticated, yet functional, gift that your host will appreciate (and may even use, immediately). You can find a three-piece set of gold-finished knives at CB2 for $19.95.

2. Incense holder

Incense ash on the table isn’t a look many hosts are looking for. A round incense holder catches all of the debris so there’s less of a mess to clean up before guests arrive. This incense holder from Urban Outfitters comes with a matching ashtray, too; $14.

3. Houseplant

Give your host something that’ll continue to grow over time. Houseplants make the best gifts for hosts with a green thumb. A Pilea Peperomioides, or friendship plant, is the perfect way to symbolize your gratitude and friendship. You can find the Pilea at The Sill for $20.

4. Coasters

Another way to help your host keep tabletop surfaces intact are with a set of coasters. There are many designs and styles available to suit your host’s decor. These absorbent terrazzo-style coasters also have a cork base so it won’t slip; $18.99, Amazon.

5. Journal or planner

With the new year just around the corner, a new journal or planner can help give your host a fresh start. This pocketbook agenda is easy to carry around while your host is on-the-go; Paper Sugar, $18. You can even take this gift to the next level by personalizing it with your host’s monogram for an additional cost.

6. Games

Games aren’t just for kids. There’s nothing more engaging at a holiday party or get-together than a healthy display of competition over Uno, Codenames, or Cards Against Humanity. The great part about this gift idea is that you can easily find a game that your host will love and is within budget. Codenames, for example, is about $10 on Amazon.

7. Hand soap

Small touches, like a hand soap with essential oils or a soothing fragrance, can leave a lasting impression on guests. Plus, it’s a great way to encourage guests to wash their hands before leaving the bathroom. Aromatherapy hand soaps, like this Eucalyptus Mint foaming hand soap, are affordable and easy to find; Bath & Body Works, $6.50.

8. A souvenir from recent travels

A great way to show your appreciation for your host is by gifting them a unique find from a recent trip. Regardless of what the item is, it’s sure to be a one-of-a-kind gift that will leave an impact.

9. Candle

Burning a candle is a great way to keep a space cozy and inviting. This Voluspa Holiday Mini Glass Candle is an elegant way to help your host prepare for the rest of the holiday season; Anthropologie, $18

10. Letterboard

Letterboards are not only cute for photos, they’re a popular gift idea for hosts. Whether it displays a quirky joke or simply welcomes guests to the party, it’s a fun thank-you gift to offer your host. You can find a 12”x12” letterboard at Target for $12.99.

Related: “9 Ways to Maximize Your Savings at Target”

11. Whiskey rocks

Whiskey rocks are a great add-on to any well-appointed bar cart setup. They chill drinks without diluting them, and are reusable. You can find a set of eight whiskey stones for $14.95 at Williams Sonoma.

12. Cookbook

Food is a central component of a celebrate (aside from mingling with friends or family, of course). Give the gift of delicious recipes that’ll steal the show at your group’s next gathering. “Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering” by Joanna Gaines has 125 recipies that your host can choose from; Amazon, $17.

These host gift ideas are just a few ways to thank your host for their generosity. Ultimately, it’s less about the gift and more about expressing your gratitude toward your host. Kind, cost-free gestures, like offering to help them set the dinner table or pouring them a drink while they welcome incoming guests goes a long way, too.