Hostess Gifts for a Summer Theme Party

We've been talking about throwing fun summer theme parties lately but what if you are not the one putting the party together?  What if you are invited as a guest to a summer theme party?  You should bring a gift to your hostess, and why not tie it in with the party's theme!
Here are a few hostess gift ideas to bring to a summer theme party.

Cocktail Napkins:  The panther always suggests cocktail napkins but they are inexpensive AND practical.  They are perfect to present to a hostess you may not know very well and she will appreciate the gesture.  Select some cocktail napkins that are in the theme of the party and tie a coordinating ribbon around them.

Flowers:  Flowers are brought less and less these days, but are always a lovely idea, especially for a summer party.  Find out the color scheme of the party ahead of time and have an arrangement done in the party's colors.

Cookbook:  Find a unique little cookbook to present to your hostess.  Choose something fun like an appetizer cookbook, or a cocktail recipe book.  Maybe even find one that is related to the party theme.

Spreaders:  Appetizer spreaders and cocktail picks come in all kinds of themes these days.  Find some that are in your hostess' party theme.  This makes a fun and useful gift.

Photo Frame:  Find a novelty frame that goes with the party theme.  Present it to your hostess.  Be sure to take a photo of your host and hostess that evening.  Include a copy of the photo when you send out your thank-you card.  Your host and hostess will love to put their party photo in their novelty frame and set it out at next year's event.

Booze:  Instead of bringing wine to a summer party, pick out a liquor that goes with the theme.  If it is the Trader Vic's theme, bring a bottle of rum.  If it is a fiesta theme, bring a bottle of tequila.  Your host and hostess will both appreciate this gift.

Cocktail Mixes:  Instead of bringing the booze, bring your hostess a fun gourmet cocktail mix.

Remember, your hostess put in a lot of work to throw this party and you should show your appreciation by bringing a gift.  It is the "thought that counts" but make that thought fun, creative, and something your hostess will appreciate in return.

-The Panther