4 DIY Hostess Gifts That’ll Make You the Best Guest Ever!

Hello Bloomers!

I love gifting hostess gifts. They're a small token of appreciation given to the host or hostess as a way to say thank you for their time, effort, and hospitality. It’s such a thoughtful gesture that shows your gratitude and makes your host feel appreciated!

Growing up, my mom always had a small gift in hand for the host and it's a tradition that I’ve tried to carry with me. As i get older, I'm finding more joy in making my own hostess gifts adds that add an extra layer of thoughtfulness.

I love crafting, and DIY gifts allow me to combine my creativity with my love for gift-giving. There’s something so special about a homemade touch—whether it’s a beautifully infused oil, a handcrafted salt blend, or a cozy tea mix, these little details make all the difference. If you’re like me and love a thoughtful homemade gift, here are five easy DIY hostess gifts that your host will adore. (They're also great gifts to give yourself!)

1. Infused Olive Oil

A bottle of infused olive oil is both elegant and useful. I love gifting this to friends who enjoy cooking because it adds instant flavor to dishes with zero effort. In my February 2nd post, I shared a recipe and gifting suggestions, but simply put:

How to Make It:

• Choose a good-quality olive oil and a clean, dry glass bottle.

• Add your infusion—rosemary, garlic, chili flakes, lemon peel, or even a mix of dried herbs. (I prefer using dried vs. fresh herbs to prevent bacteria, etc.)

• Let it sit for at least 24 hours before gifting (longer for stronger flavor).

• Add a tag with suggestions like “Drizzle over roasted veggies or dip with crusty bread!”

2. Infused Salts

This is one of my favorite quick and easy gifts because it’s versatile and so fragrant. It adds a gourmet touch to simple dishes like roasted potatoes, grilled meats, or even popcorn! My favorite blend is simple and classic: Rosemary.

Ingredients and How To:

• If using fresh rosemary, use 1 sprig per 1 cup of salt

  • Ensure the rosemary is rinsed and then allow to dry. Next, strip the leaves from the stem, and chop and blend.

• If using dried rosemary, use 2 tablespoons per 1 cup of salt

• Blend salt and rosemary. My favorite salt is Maldon Sea Salt flakes.

  • I prefer to blend with a mortar and pestle so the flakes stay 'flakey' (ha ha) but you can blend in a food processor as well.

• Store it in a small glass jar and tie it with a ribbon.

• Pro tip: Pair it with a bottle of infused olive oil for an extra special gift set!
  

3. Custom Tea Blend

For the tea lover, a handcrafted blend of loose-leaf tea makes such a thoughtful gift. It’s cozy, relaxing, and perfect for winding down after hosting. My February 16th post gives you ingredients and instructions for making my favorite homemade blend - Sweet Dreams Tea Blend (lavender, chamomile, lemon balm and rose petals). I also show you a cute way to package and gift it!

How to Make It:

• Choose a base like black tea, green tea, or rooibos.

• Add dried flowers (rose petals, lavender), citrus peels, spices (cinnamon, cardamom), or dried fruit.

• Package it in a glass jar or small kraft paper bag.

• Add a cute tag with brewing instructions and a sweet note like, “For a cozy moment just for you!”

  
  

4. Relaxing Bath Salts

Hosting can be exhausting, so giving your host a way to relax afterward is always a win. A jar of homemade bath salts infused with calming scents is a perfect self-care gift (featured in my February 9th blog post).

How to Make It:

• Mix 1 cup of Epsom salt with ½ cup of pink Himalayan salt.

• Add 10–15 drops of essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint are my favorites).

• Stir in dried flower petals for a luxurious look.

• Package in a jar and attach a little note: “You hosted beautifully—now take a moment for yourself.”

Final Touches

Presentation is everything, so I always make sure to package these gifts beautifully. Small glass jars, kraft paper bags, twine, and handwritten tags add that perfect handmade charm.

There’s nothing better than showing appreciation with a gift that’s both thoughtful and useful. Next time you head to a gathering, skip the store-bought bottle of wine and surprise your host with something homemade. I promise—it’ll be remembered and cherished!