Hosting & Entertaining

Traditionally, giving a small gift is an exemplary way to thank a host or hostess for their hospitality or bid new homeowners good luck with building their new home. Though giving housewarming gifts is less common today than it was even just a few years ago, the act of expressing your gratitude with a small host or hostess gift makes a big impact. Whether you attend a large holiday fête or an intimate housewarming party, you can’t go wrong by bringing a little something for the host.

The term “housewarming” originated from the medieval practice of lighting all the fireplaces in one’s new home and inviting neighbors, who brought wood with them, to warm the house – quite literally. Some housewarming gifts are symbolic. A loaf of bread symbolizes a home without hunger; candles are symbolic of living in light and joy.

However, today’s gifts are less symbolic in nature, ranging from a bouquet of flowers to entertaining essentials, such as placemats and serving dishes. Consider these housewarming gift ideas: a carafe or jug and bottle of wine, a new glassware set, a set of tea towels, or a pair of candleholders alongside colorful candles. Here, we deep-dive into the best host and housewarming gifts for everyone on your list.

Housewarming Gifts for Everyone

The best host or hostess gifts will speak to the person’s interests and interior design aesthetic.

Looking for the perfect gift for the holiday entertainer? Consider a striped serving dish evocative of a candy cane or specialty seasonal treats from your local bakery or chocolatier. For the cocktail enthusiast, opt for one of these hostess gift ideas: a pair of glass tumblers, glass straws, or spoons for stylish serving. Gift something specific to your host’s favorite cuisine or style of dining, such as chopsticks for sushi night or a melamine tray for poolside dining.

For housewarming gifts for new homeowners or renters, consider the basics: flatware sets, plates and bowls sets, wine glass sets – dining essentials that can supplement or expand on what they may (or may not yet) have in their new place.

Know someone who loves to throw game nights or themed parties? Easy multi-player board games or a set of coasters for living room gatherings make great gifts for entertaining. Ultimately, the best hostess gift will be one that feels thoughtful and personal.

HAY Housewarming Gifts

HAY’s bright dinnerware, drinkware, and linens make excellent host and housewarming gifts. Refined yet functional, HAY offers a wide selection of well-designed pieces – from colorful plate sets to bamboo placemats to glass straws – that can pivot from everyday use to more formal table settings with ease.

HAY’s plates and bowls sets bring a dash of color and dose of charm to daily dinnerware, while the borosilicate wine glasses, tumblers, and mugs feel elevated without compromising on durability – they’re dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. Count on HAY as your one-stop shop for a gift your host is sure to love.