What to Bring to a Dinner Party

It's always great to get an invitation to a dinner party, but sometimes it can be hard to figure out what you should bring for the host. This is especially true if you don't know the host well or want to strictly follow the rules of etiquette. Don't worry too much; the host should accept anything you bring with grace. But it's always good to have some ideas up your sleeve before your next event.

Step 1

Choose a host gift. It's proper to bring a gift when you're a guest in someone else's home. It doesn't have to be expensive, but it should be somewhat useful. The most popular things to bring are décor items for the home, such as candles, vases, plants or soaps. Gourmet snacks, such as artisan cheeses and fancy chocolates, are another option. Flowers are also acceptable, but arrange them beforehand so that the host doesn't have to spend time doing it.

Step 2

Offer to bring a side dish or dessert. This can help the host immeasurably by saving her some time and kitchen space. Don't simply tell the host what you're going to bring. Have her suggest a dish that fits with the overall menu plan. Remember, this is not your dinner party. Let the host run the show.

Step 3

Call the host on your way to the party to ask if he needs anything at the last minute. Oftentimes, a host gets overwhelmed when planning the party and forgets something important, like a bottle of wine, napkins or a bag of ice on the big day. You should extend this courtesy to the host even if you've already purchased a gift.

skill

ingredient

Gift for the host Dessert or side dish (optional) Telephone

tip

If you know the host well, you can be more liberal in choosing your host gift. Cater it to her personality. For example, if your host collects back scratchers, go ahead and bring one to the party. Just don't start bringing one to every dinner party or people might think you're strange. You don't have to bring your host gift with you on the day of the event if it will be inconvenient. You can send it before the party or after as a thank you.

warning

Be careful about bringing food as a gift if you don't know the host. You don't want to give cheese to a host that is lactose intolerant or a bottle of liquor to a recovering alcoholic.

keyword

dinner, party, bring