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Top 10 Hostess Gifts Under $40

By Donna Pilato, About.com Guide

It's always good etiquette to bring a small gift to your hostess when you're invited to a dinner or other party. Here are some of the most thoughtful gifts you can bring. Some are traditional, others are a little less conventional.

1. Ghirardelli Chocolates

A gift of chocolates is a traditional gift for a hostess. She may choose to share it with her guests. Or she may simply stash it away for herself. Either way, you'll bring a smile to her face with this gift.
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2. A Bottle of Red Wine

This has always been a classic gift to bring to your hostess for a dinner invitation. However, don't expect her to serve it.. It may not go with her meal. And, after all, it's intended to be a gift for the hostess
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3. Flowers

Sending a bouquet of flowers after you've been entertained has always been a great way to show your appreciation to your hostess.
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4. Kiehls Hand Lotion

After I've been cooking for days to prepare for guests, my hands begin to resemble sand paper. A gift of luxury hand lotion would show that my guest has recognized my efforts in the kitchen.
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5. Gourmet Tea Set

Let your hostess treat herself as special as she treats you with this gourmet tea set that includes an individual tea pot/ mug, four small loose tea samples, and a guide to tea.
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6. Guest Book

A guest book offers a great way to record a history of your happy events. This copy from Mary Englebreit is decorated with her charming, old-fashioned, original art.
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7. Wine Charms

These great little accessories make it possible to know which glass is yours after you've put it down.
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8. Silpat Baking Mat

If your hostess enjoys baking cookies, she will really appreciate receiving one of these mats that takes away the risk of stuck cookies, and the mess of greasing baking sheets.
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9. Picture Frame

Your hostess will be ready to frame her favorite memory from the party you attended when you present her with a picture frame.
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10. Essential Oils Aromatherapy Candles

Give your hostess a gift that will help her to unwind after all of the guests have gone home.
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