Sometimes I’ve been invited to dinner or a party or a lunch and a bottle of wine just doesn’t seem quite the right gift.
It would have been lovely if I’d had a few alternatives that I could have brought along. I put a little set of suggestions on instagram and it was very well received, so I thought I’d share some with you.
Here are five ideas:
Number 1: Olive Oil
The first is a bottle of olive oil. The price of olive oil has more than doubled since 2018 and this gorgeous amber liquid is becoming more and more of a luxury. Now that it costs as much as a bottle of wine, and especially as many brands have such beautiful labels, it’s the perfect gift to bring to a food loving host.
Number 2: A loaf of artisan bread
Local bakers and even supermarkets are selling increasingly beautiful loaves of bread. We have a wonderful local sourdough bakery in Romsey called 108 The Bakery who bake the most gorgeous loaves. At 9.30 each morning a queue forms outside their door made up of bread lovers from up to 50 miles away, arriving early to make sure of a purchase before the bread runs out and to sample specials such as miso and poppyseed loaves.
Bringing one of these as a gift, warm, wrapped in a tea towel and smelling of home would be a delight for any host.
Number 3: A bunch of flowers
Most of the time bouquets of flowers are quite expensive and it’s not easy to find classy bunches in supermarkets or local shops, so I celebrate the arrival of spring with daffodils. Daffodils are usually around a pound a bunch and when their multitude of golden trumpets open, they bring a burst of joy to any kitchen.
Number 4: A tea towel
A simple tea towel is always a welcome gift. A little square of art printed on linen that will always find a good home, and be used and enjoyed for years, especially if it’s a Katy Botanicals tea towel!
Number 5: A pineapple
Historically, ever since sailors brought them home to their loved ones, gifting a pineapple has symbolised hospitality, wealth and good fortune.
However, when I suggested gifting a pineapple on social media I received all sorts of entertaining comments! You may want to choose this gift carefully and make sure you know the implications before bringing it to your host’s door.
Finally, I’m painting a new woodland fabric design which is filled with oak trees, deer, birds and woodland plants and flowers. It’s going to be gorgeous. Watch this space for updates x