Top 11 Thanksgiving Host Gifts

Dinner is up to the host, but dessert can be on you. First, ask in advance if it's OK if you bring dessert and if the host would like you to bring a pie, cake, or even a tray of candy, fruit, and/or chocolates. It doesn't matter if you make the item yourself — taking some of the responsibility and pressure off of the host is a Thanksgiving gift within itself.

Homeowners might skip the splurge on pretty soaps and hand lotion sets, but they are a nice treat to have in the guest bathroom. Go with a universal fragrance like lavender or orange or any scent that won't be overwhelming for the nose. Fall- and winter-inspired scents can be an homage to the season and are a way to “decorate" the bath for the holidays.

How nice would it be to not think about feeding people again the day after hosting Thanksgiving, especially if the host is welcoming guests from out of town for an overnight? Breakfast basket ideas could include baked goods such as cinnamon rolls, juices, even sausage biscuit sandwiches, and coffee cake! Indulge your host with fine coffee or tea and they can even use them to accompany the post-Thanksgiving dessert time.

After accomplishing the feat of hosting Thanksgiving dinner for family and friends, the host needs some time to wind down. Send them a spa kit containing bath salts, soap, lotion, essential oils, lip balm, a mask, a loofah, and a candle — or any combination of personal care items. Pop in a gift certificate for a massage or a nail treatment if it's a group gift.

Plants keep giving for weeks, months — sometimes even years. (Some even bring you good luck!) They will remind the recipient of you every time the host waters it. Herb plants have additional bonuses for their scent and are great to help the cook flavor their meals. A money tree, succulent, or herb container are all special greens to brighten the host's home.

People don't tend to put pen to paper in our digital age. A thoughtfully written note on beautiful stationery or a greeting card mailed to the recipient will bring a smile to their face when picking up the daily stash from the mailbox. A note of gratitude detailing what you love about the person and their celebration may be more meaningful to them than any tangible item.

Every Thanksgiving host will appreciate an offer of assistance. Taking on the responsibility of cooking for a large group can be overwhelming, so any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated — just be sure to abide by the host's wishes, so ask where you might be needed. If it's a family gathering, a promise to help on the day after Thanksgiving by cutting down the Christmas tree, hanging lights, cleaning and organizing the garage, taking boxes of decorations down from the attic, and raking leaves — all could be a relief to the host. Many hands make light work!