I like getting flowers. I already have tons of wine but I don't have flowers. Def don't need more candles either!

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:When I invite someone over for dinner, I do it because I want them to come over for dinner, not bring me anything. I hate that people feel an obligation to spend money after I'VE been the one to extend an invitation. I'm neither cheap nor thoughtless, but I absolutely hate this social convention. What's wrong with just inviting someone over?

I love you!! I do not get the need to make a nice thing turn into a burden for everyone.

Let's join forces: you come to my house and I will cook for you, then invite me to your house and cook for me. We can say thank you and skip the gifts.

Anonymous wrote:When I invite someone over for dinner, I do it because I want them to come over for dinner, not bring me anything. I hate that people feel an obligation to spend money after I'VE been the one to extend an invitation. I'm neither cheap nor thoughtless, but I absolutely hate this social convention. What's wrong with just inviting someone over?

I love you!! I do not get the need to make a nice thing turn into a burden for everyone.

Anonymous wrote:Wine.
Good wine.

A pretty table decor.

A pretty Bath set.

A fruit basket.

Spa gift card.

Spa gift card for a dinner party? No.

Anonymous wrote:I get mothers macaroons in Arlington, or some chocolate or flowers.

This place has been closed for years, but it was so good.

Wine..we drink it but that is what everyone always brings. We just re-gift..actually label it so we don't give it back to the same person. I don;t want a candle or other knick knack really though I will always appreciate your thought.

Wine....if your hostess likes wine! If you need help with selection go to wines.com. You enter type, price & it will show best selections for your money. If not, flowers or a beautiful candle. Enjoy!

Wine.
Good wine.

A pretty table decor.

A pretty Bath set.

A fruit basket.

Spa gift card.

Wine. Always wine.

It is not necessary for you to open immediately, but you certainly may if you like.

Sometimes champagne if I know you like bubbles.

Anonymous wrote:Can someone please explain why when you extend an invitation to me, I am suddenly obligated to go find you some fancy soaps or local chocolates? Why can't I send you a nice thank you note and include you the next time at my expense and effort.

Of course you can. That is the most proper. But for those whose style isn't to follow up with a written thank you or weren't taught that as being proper prefer to do it on the spot with a small hostess gift. Especially those who are unlikely to reciprocate with a return invitation. It just is. I will only reiterate my earlier point that whatever gift people choose it isn't something your host has to drop everything to put in a vase or platter or open wine that doesn't match the food or add in a stray dish that would disrupt the menu.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:To 16:01-- are you as snarky in person as you are online??

Not 16:01, but I don't see that response as snarky at all. It's very direct and honest, not to mention refreshing.

+1 I don't see the snark. I'm an NP and they basically summed up exactly what I think too with no sarcasm.

Wine unless its someone who doesn't drink, then flowers or chocolate. Please god don't bring a candle.
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Well thanks to you both, PPs! I'm 16:01 and wasn't intending to be snarky. Just "tell it like it is". Don't bring junk to my house.

One man's trash is another man's treasure.

Depends on the candle. Diptyque? Cire Trudon? Yes please. Yankee Candle? Blech.