Like it or not, Halloween now seems to mark the beginning of the holiday season, and holidays mean parties, and parties mean hosts, and hosts means gifts!
Now for a Halloween party, a bag of candy corn or even a bowl of peeled "eyeball" grapes might suffice (we prefer a Pumpkin Chai candle from Nest...), but as the holidays progress, generally so does the elegance of parties.
According to Emily Post, (and who does not defer to Ms. Post on these things?), it is customary to bring a gift when invited to an event on certain occasions. A casual dinner party = yes. A large, formal dinner = no. Housewarming = yes. Dinner at a restaurant = no. Overnight stay = definitely.
The cost of the gift is not really a factor. In this situation it truly is "the thought that counts" ~ but a little something wrapped in tissue paper goes a long way towards showing appreciation for the invitation.
Fortunately for those of you reading this, you've got a local resident expert in what to give, how to present it and whether or not you need a card (or maybe even just a card).
{Boulevard 34} has candles, spices, books, cards and free gift wrapping. So stop on by before your next gala ~ and we'll insure you'd make Ms. Post proud.
Anna