Check out these 7 unusual, fun and thoughtful host & hostess gifts for Christmas! Say thank you in a more original way.


Looking for something a little different to take with you to say thank you? We’ve got you covered.
With seven affordable and slightly off the beaten track ideas below, we’ll steer you away from the classic chocs, bottle and flowers with some more unusual and thoughtful Christmas host and hostess gift ideas this year.
Looking for more gift inspiration? Click here for ideas galore of what to put under the tree this year.
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1. Up The Bottle Ante!
Okay, okay, we know we said this isn’t just the classic ‘take a bottle’ list. But we’re talking here more about the presentation than the bottle itself.
Adding a little something extra is a great way to elevate your gift beyond the norm (and may well mean that you can get away with a slightly less expensive drop inside too!).
We’ve got two lovely ideas for you.
Bedazzle Your Bottle
Make a bottle of bubbles even more enticing and give it extra festive sparkle with this gorgeous drink shimmer neck tag from Bedazzled Drinks. Each neck tag contains enjoy shimmer for 8-10 drinks and there’s a whole range of festive themes. Find out more –> here.
By the way, we can’t be the only ones LOVING the Freixenet Prosecco bottles at the moment?!
Wow, they are stunning! Buy them –> here.
We think this and a Bedazzled Drinks neck tag would make an amazing gift combo.
Add A Wrap
If you would prefer to give your bottle a full-body wrap, they why not embrace the art of Furoshiki.
Wrapuccino teach us how to wrap a wine bottle with this gorgeous kimono wrap.
They also sell beautiful wraps –> here as well as at Liberty London (and if they’re good enough for Liberty London, they’re on our Christmas list…!), including a fabulous new range of festive material designs made from recycled plastic! The perfect conscious gifting option!
Or if you fancy double downing on your gift then how about enveloping your bottle in a Christmas tea-towel such as this Bubbles & Fizz one from Sophie Allport.
Find out more –> here.
Christmas Cocktail Round-Up
Join us for a look at some of our favourite cocktail recipes from across the pond!
2. A Little Game
The perfect ice-breaker, great late night digestion activity or ideal if visiting with the family and hoping to entertain the troops en masse.
Of course there’s so many games that would fit the bill but we like these two festive options, perfect for a wide age range.
Mince Spies
Secret Christmas missions assigned on coasters to be completed during dinner.
More details –> here.
Santa Dip Sticks
Selection of festive charades, jokes, dares & hum that tune challenges to enjoy over the evening.
More details –> here.
Spread The Word!
Like what you’ve seen? Be sure to share with your friends.
Let’s sprinkle Christmas cheer far and wide!
3. Christmas Pickle-ing
The passing on of a Christmas tradition seems a lovely way to thank friends and family for their hospitality. And whilst there’s no denying that the Christmas pickle is rather quirky and will no doubt be unexpected, it makes for a cute and unusual host or hostess gift.
In case you’re thinking condiment, no, this is the endearing little pickle-shaped Christmas decoration. If you don’t know its story, do check it out –> here.
The Christmas Pickle Tradition
Few traditions are more peculiar or more endearing than that of the glass Christmas Pickle.
Picking out a Christmas ornament for someone else could be a bit daunting or indeed awkward if you don’t know their decorating style but the very purpose of the Christmas pickle is to hide discreetly on the tree so it’s a perfect choice!
Christmas pickle ornaments are available at a wide range of price points – buy a cheaper one and either add your own printed story or retell it in person.
But we love this heirloom pickle which comes complete with box to keep it safe year on year.
4. Homemade Treats
Since we’re on the subject of condiments…!
We all know that homemade gifts say thank you a little louder than the average treat.
We’ve got a whole host of edible gift recipes and ideas for you, many of which can be made far ahead of the festivities and stored ready to grab from the cupboard when you’re heading out the door.
Check out our Edible Gift Recipes below
2022 Christmas Biscuit Box
The moment you’ve all been waiting for, Jolly Festive’s 2022 Christmas Biscuit Box has arrived and there’s something delicious for everyone!
Christmas Dinner Popcorn
If Willy Wonka can do it, so can we! Introducing our super easy Christmas Dinner Popcorn: roast turkey and all the trimmings meets the nation’s favourite movie snack!
Chocolate Orange Fudge
Combining two of our favourite Christmas treats, this easy chocolate orange fudge is perfect for a little festive bite!
5. Light Up The Occasion
Candles are of course another classic host & hostess gift idea. We love these options.

The Winter Company’s Signature Winter Candle is Christmas in candle form! With its cinnamon, clove & orange combination it is always a winner.
Find out more –> here.

The Cotswold Candle Company’s Frankincense & Myrrh scent is beautifully cosy with its patchouli, bergamot & amber mix but with its slightly more subtle nod to the season, it’ll happily last into January too.
Find out more –> here.
More Ideas?
Looking for more gift inspiration to spoil your family and friends? We’ve got gift guides, homemade gifting ideas & wrapping tips galore!
6. Soapy Solution
Beautiful soap is another guaranteed winner and we’ve got three fabulous options for you to consider.
Molton Brown Festive Hand Wash
This Festive Frankincense & Allspice Fine Liquid Hand Wash smells divine and looks indulgent! OK it’s not cheap but it’s the perfect host / hostess gift as few people would purchase it for themselves.
Find out more –> here.

Woodland Walks Hand Wash
Sophie Allport’s hand wash is another great option. The scent is winter not Christmas making it more versatile than some others whilst still giving a nod to the season. Matching hand lotion is available too for a lovely doubled up treat.
Find out more –> here.

Filthy Gorgeous Soap Bars
If you’re in the market for some cheeky fun, then look no further than Go La La’s award-winning range of fabulous soap bars!
The hilarious eye-catching packaging slogans mean that this is definitely a gift for a good-humoured friend but the soaps within are 100% vegan, natural, ethical and utterly lovely making these a winner in our book!
Find out more –> here.

7. Something For The Festive Table
Last but not least, why not take a little extra flourish for your host to add to their festive table. We’re thinking the cute additions that are hard to justify buying for yourself but just fabulous to receive as gifts.
Condiment Spoons
La De Da Living’s Vintage Spoons are hand stamped and perfect for the Christmas table. These would make a fabulous gift especially if they were presented with a jar of the appropriate sauce!
Find out more –> here.

Dip Bowls
This Villeroy & Boch Christmas Dip Set is a beautiful classic piece which can be kept and treasured for years to come.
Find out more –> here.

Cream Jug
Gisela Graham’s cute little gingerbread jug would be perfect for milk, cream or even brandy sauce! It’s cheery and versatile and so makes for a great host or hostess Christmas gift.
Find out more –> here.

What other host or hostess gifts do you like to take at Christmas time? Let us know in the comments below.
Looking for gift inspiration? Well, look no further! We have a whole host of gift guides ready and waiting for you right here.
Share The Love!
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @jollyfestive.
And be sure to tag #jollyfestive in your photos. We can’t wait to see what festive treats you are planning to gift this year!
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