15 fantastic host and hostess gifts under $50

Note candle

You could write a thank you card, but this custom typewritten note candle from Uncommon Goods is an equally thoughtful gift that your hostess can enjoy for weeks. Pick from four scents, and add a personalized message for $36 at Uncommon Goods.

Jigsaw puzzle

Everyone knows that couple who got really into puzzles during the pandemic and never stopped. Puzzledly specializes in modern jigsaw puzzles for adults. We love this $25 feast-themed 1,000 piece puzzle as a hostess gift.

Candle-making kit

This candle-making kit from Paddywax is the perfect gift for a host or hostess who loves crafting. Buy it for $50 from Urban Outfitters.

Cotton waffle throw

Can anyone ever have enough throw blankets? These cotton waffle throw blankets from West Elm are the perfect cozy hostess gift for the winter holiday season. Snag one while they’re marked down to $39.99.

Agate coasters

Make your host’s job easier by gifting these pretty agate coasters from Crate & Barrel. A sophisticated set of four costs $49.95.

Reusable bread pan candle

This $28 hostess gift from Anthropologie is a 2-in-1. The lemon-and-strawberry focaccia scented candle can be burned for 12 hours. The oven- and dishwasher-safe ceramic bread pan can then be cleaned and used to bake.

Horoscope mug

Show your appreciation with a handmade mug from Claylicious on Etsy for $33.60. Just pick out the Zodiac sign of your host or hostess.

Hot honey gift set

Hot honey addicts will love this $24.99 gift set from Mike’s Hot Honey. Each set contains two squeeze bottles (hot and extra hot), 2 mini-jars, a tote bag, a recipe booklet and three bottle stickers. 

Drinking game

This adult version of Jenga from World Market makes the perfect gift for hosts who know how to throw a raucous get together. The $19.99 drinking game comes with shot glasses and wooden blocks engraved with instructions.

Socially conscious socks

Socks might not be the most exciting present when you’re a kid, but a cozy pack is an awesome hostess gift for adults. Conscious Step makes socks that support philanthropic causes, from planting trees to women’s empowerment, so grab a 3-pack for $39.95 to support the cause your host is passionate about.

Chocolate bars

This set of three organic chocolate bars in a pretty gift box is perfect for hosts with a sweet tooth. Grab it from Food52 for $30.

Concrete planter

This minimalist boho planter from MadeByCaitJ on Etsy is only $35. Add some soil and a houseplant to complete the host gift.

Wine stoppers

These chic marble wine bottle stoppers from Williams Sonoma are great for preserving red, white and rosé. Buy the set of three for $39.95.

Oil dispenser

If your host or hostess is also an amazing home cook, gift this handmade vinegar or olive oil cruet from Alletash on Etsy for $50. The triangle shape makes it even more unique.

Linen napkins

Every host or hostess can use an extra set of nice reusable napkins. This modern linen set from Lulu and Georgia is a budget-friendly gift option at $44 for a set of four.

Podcast: What are the ethical pitfalls of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas?