When someone extends extraordinary hospitality your way—say, an invitation to an intimate supper or a long weekend’s accommodations—sometimes you want to arrive with a little something extra. Here are several small but thoughtful gifts for the home that any Southerner would appreciate.
Angel vine lasts forever, and this one arrives already potted. Win, win. $38; shopterrain.com
A mixed set of cocktail napkins is such a stylish way for folks to know which drink is which. $45 for a set of six; shop.goop.com
There are so many gorgeous wood cutting boards out there like the one shown above, but plastic ones? Not so much. Until these! The scallop-y edge and color set them apart. $40; onekingslane.com
Beech Wood Handle Watering Can
All things beautiful and garden-related are likely to spark joy in the heart of a Southerner. And I love this sleek modern take on the watering can. $20; shopterrain.com
Wisteria Taper Candles by Creative Candles
Candles in a quirky, fun-loving color for special occasions? Always appreciated. $12 for 2; ggfieldshop.com
I don’t think I’ve visited a home that didn’t welcome a fresh batch of notepads for list-making. $27 for a set of three; macys.com
Ditto the need for all manner of totes in a home for groceries, errands, picnics, tailgates, and more. $148; shopbop.com
If you know the person you are visiting is without a hammock, get them one! $170; kaufmann-mercantile.com
A brass bottle opener that doubles as bar art. $56; shopspring.com
A perfect backdrop for cheese and crackers. $140; zola.com
You can never go wrong giving a cookbook to a Southerner (or anyone). This is a favorite of mine that I’ve dog-eared over and over and over. I’ve probably made Martha Foose’s chicken gumbo for friends a hundred times. It’s delightful. $19; amazon.com
Coffee Beans in a Glass Canister
I love the idea of bringing a gift within a gift, and these amazing Louisiane coffee beans by La Colombe Coffee Roasters ($14; lacolombe.com) are ideal for presenting in a beautiful, functional container. $48; shopterrain.com
The same goes for flowers. Such a nice thought to bring them freshly clipped in a vase that will last long after the blooms fade. $119; onekingslane.com
An upholstered serving tray is the epitome of chic barware. $450; modaoperandi.com
This design is a truly gorgeous home for sweet tea. $500; modaoperandi.com
A lovely idea to present in lieu of (or with!) a bottle of wine. $60; zola.com
If your friends are gardeners, this is the gift to give. $80; kaufmann-mercantile.com
I’m obsessed with enamelware because it has such a charming vintage quality—and especially enamelware baking trays. I use mine probably twice a day. Fantastic for foodies. $26; zola.com
Whether it’s lighting candles, a gas stove, or stoking a fire inside or out, an old-school match striker comes in handy at home. $230; ahalife.com
When in doubt, bring bourbon. Price varies; drizly.com
The ultimate gift of self-care for a hardworking host. $49; cosbar.com
Wool dryer balls are a great, nontoxic way to knock wrinkles and static cling out of laundry, and they make a thoughtful gift for the home. $38 for a set of six; amazon.com
Nashville’s Firepot Teas are delicious, beautifully packaged, caffeine-free, and hippie-dippy in a delightfully health-minded way. My favorite blend is Cult of Flowers, but this entire collection is perfect for a tea fanatic. $60 for a set of six; firepot.com
Caspari Acrylic Guest Towel Holder and Guest Towels
Real cotton and linen guest towels in a powder bathroom are amazing, but so are the clever designs from Charlottesville, Virginia, based Caspari, which makes both an acrylic holder ($30; amazon.com) and the paper towels that fit right inside. $22; amazon.com
