BEST SUMMER HOSTESS GIFTS

Summer is the time of year when many people entertain at their home from pool parties to BBQs. What should you bring the host or hostess when invited to a fun soiree, dinner or beach get-away? I have you covered here with some of my favorite chic and unique hostess gift ideas all priced under $100!

1. Vitreluxe Crystal Bowls, $78

Your host will be wowed by these faceted crystal bowls that have a beautiful optical quality to them (I love the way they refract light). The glass bowls are made by hand in Portland using cast and press glass and are inspired by geometric forms of Quartz crystals. Available in three fab colors--sea green, berry and aqua.

2.  Addison Ross Shagreen 5" X 7" Grey frame, $54

A beautiful enameled photo frame makes a great gift for just about anyone. This elegant one by Addison Ross has gorgeous details and the pale grey color will match any decor.

3. Lover Raw Chocolate, Raw Chocolate Heart Pieces

This  artisan chocolate is not only delicious but handmade, organic, raw, vegan, and low glycemic. All of LOVER's ingredients are super foods that are ethically sourced from diverse cultures from around the world. Popular with the Hollywood set, Lover Raw Chocolate tins were given out to celebrities at the Oscars!

 

4. VOLUPSA candles - Baltic Amber, $18

The Voluspa Japonica candle collection comes in a gorgeous floral design inspired from the beauty of Japanese art. Each candle is crafted with hand-poured coconut wax and features cotton wicks for a clean, fragrant burn. Baltic Amber blends notes of amber resin, sandalwood, cedar and vanilla bloom and the scent is incredible. It's no surprise that celebrity fans of VOLUSPA candles include Drew Barrymore, Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Lopez, Megan Fox, Rachel Zoe, Kate Hudson, Jessica Alba, Blake Lively, Demi Moore, and many more. 

Voluspa Japonica Baltic Amber Candle, $18. 12 oz. 60-hour burn time. 21/4"H with 16" circumference.

Voluspa Japonica Baltic Amber Candle, $18. 12 oz. 60-hour burn time. 21/4"H with 16" circumference.

5. KESS Monogram cutting boards, $50 

These cutting boards are a perfect gift for every cook to keep by the grill this summer. Available in solid colors or in a trendy chevron pattern, the Monogram Cutting Board is a cut above anything you have ever seen before! 

KESS Inhouse is known for their awesome products that feature real art on everyday items such as home décor and pet products. Their connection to the artist community is unique and sets them apart in the home décor industry because each product that is sold gives a royalty back to the artist that worked on the design. They now have a new lineup of products that are sure to excite every home dweller to turn their living space into an artistic sanctuary all while being dishwasher safe!

6. Jonathan Adler Bel Air Mini Scoop Vases, $98

The Bel Air Mini Scoop Vase is a surreal take on glam décor, an organic form in vivid color, suspended in a Lucite cube. Each vase is finished by hand and perfect for a petite bouquet of flowers. The miniature size has go-anywhere appeal and works great in sets of multiple colors for a mod pop moment.

7. Studiopatró Café Apron Set in Oatmeal, $98

This fab unisex apron was inspired by men who love to cook but looks good on anyone! On the front, there's a loop of fabric to hold a tea towel, and a pocket to keep tools handy. The aprons are 100% oatmeal linen and finished with sturdy nickel-plated grommets on the back corners and slate gray cotton twill ties. This is perfect to pull on in the kitchen and to quickly slip off before entertaining guests. 

8. Rifle Paper Co. Cities Coaster Set, $16

These fun and vibrant coasters by Rifle Paper Co. are great for the artsy hostess who also loves to travel. One set has 8 coasters and comes in 4 designs that feature New York, Tokyo, London and Paris for only $16. These coasters are a great place to set a chilled drink or even act as a conversation starter. 

9. ME! Bath Mini Bath Ice Cream Gift Set, $30.99

Perfect for the tuckered out hostess who needs some serious “me time” after her fabulous 4th of July bash. This pampering gift set features 12 full-size Bath Ice Cream bath soaks. Each scoop is comprised of a unique six oil blend, purifying minerals, salts and indulgent fragrances so that she can enjoy a customizable spa experience from the comfort of her own bath tub. Each set comes individually wrapped to ensure freshness. Flavors: chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, pomegranate, pearberry, apple, coconut, papaya, peach.

Price: $34, Available at MeBath.com 

10. Prodyne Fruit Infuser Pitcher, $19.99

This pitcher is perfect for adding fresh fruit and herbs to chilled drinks. There is nothing more refreshing and delicious than fresh lemon and mint in lemonade or fresh chopped fruit in chilled sangria. The pitcher's infuser is attached to the lid and is removable to allow for more space and even more drinks. Great to bring to a summer BBQ!

Prodyne Fruit Infuser Pitcher, $19.99

Prodyne Fruit Infuser Pitcher, $19.99

Lily Chai Tea Build Your Own 3 set, $32.99

Lily Chai Tea Build Your Own 3 set, $32.99

Lily Chai Teas 

Lily Chai Teas 

Lily Chai Tea offers the ability to make a personalized set of three of their original teas. This Southern Californian brand offers some of the most delicious and unique flavors available anywhere. Whether your host or hostess likes a strong hot Oolong or a decaffeinated iced Rooibos, these gourmet teas are sure to satisfy everyone.


I discovered this over-the-top line of teas when my son was playing soccer in Irvine. My favorite is the blueberry Rooibos which makes the best iced tea. Even the kids drink it without adding any sugar!