Hostess Gifts and Kappa Prep's Closet

Instead of continuing to have blog sales here I have opened a new blog where I will post items (several other bloggers will also post so there will be a bigger size range). The blog sale posts can get annoying for those not interested so this seemed liked a perfect solution. I have a number of Lilly (I plan to list LOTS more as I am overhauling my closet and my style is somewhat changing, GASP), J Crew and Elizabeth McKay items up for grabs at Kappa Prep's Closet.

Now on to the first post on gift giving. I know these posts are sort of overdone so I promise to keep mine short and sweet, to the point and affordable. There is nothing worse than looking at a never ending gift guide where you cannot justify buying a single item because they are impracticable or cost more than I can spend.

 Tis the season of parties! I like to have a small stockpile of hostess gifts at all times, but during the holidays I try to be a little bit more creative. Napkins and matches are always great, but you only need so many before you have a stockpile. Below is a handful of fun items that you can tailor to your host's hobbies or even start you very own signature gift that you can give year after year. All gifts are also $13 of less.

2013 Calendar 

Above image from happyprints

I love having small calendars on my desk and at home. Etsy offers a great selection of printable calendars which you can print more than once (be sure to check the maker's instructions though). You can print these out and tie them with a ribbon or give them with a frame. This would be a fun "signature" gift that you can give year after year.

Pashmina

You can never have too many scarves. Roll up a pashmina, tie it with a fun ribbon. You could even include a cheesy tag that says something like "Thank you for warming our hearts this year...wrap up and keep yourself warm with this!" Cheesy? Yes! However, the thought and sentiment are still meaningful. 

Rosemary Tree

This is the first year I have had a rosemary tree and I am a convert. It is the gift that keeps giving all year long if you take care of it. If you have a friend that lives in a small space or loves to cook this would be the perfect gift. They run between $10 and $13 at local groceries stores and usually come in a festive jar or wrap of some sort. They smell wonderful and add a perfect amount of green to any room.

Candle

While not a new idea, candles are always a fail safe gift. I love Bath and Body Works candles (I load up when they are 2 for $20 and top the deal off with a $10 off coupon) and think a big plus is that their packaging comes right off. You can then decorate or personalize the candles if you have the time. My favorite Winter scents are Fresh Balsam and Mahogany Teakwood.

Nutcrakers

These can be found anywhere and everywhere right now, and often on sale too. Pick up a nutcracker that you feel embodies the host's personality or hobbies. Wrap it up in cello with a note and you are good to go. You could give one each year and help build a little collection.

Cheers to gifts for the hostess with the mostess!

*All images from GoogleImages unless otherwise noted.*