Summer’s almost here and that means weekend beach house escapes, backyard barbecues, and pool time are all on the horizon. If your summer calendar is loading up, chances are you’ve also got gifts for your hosts on the brain–or more specifically, how to gift something they’re guaranteed to love. To get the ideas flowing, we asked four interior designers, Maureen Stevens of Austin and NOLA-based Maureen Stevens Design, Stefani Stein of Los Angeles-based Stefani Stein Inc. and August Abode, and Kenneth Boyer and Kristin Gunnette of Los Angeles-based Atelier k, to hit us with their best summer host gift ideas. Ahead, get their picks for a backyard party, a night’s stay, a weekend, and a week-long getaway!
Backyard Party or BBQ
“I absolutely love a vintage picnic basket as a host gift for a summer BBQ! You can fill it up with ingredients for a sumptuous bruschetta and bonus points if you have amber beer glasses!” — Maureen Stevens
“Arriving with a seasonal bouquet in a vintage vase is one of my staple gifts. I try to select an item that compliments the host’s aesthetic and style as the personal touch makes it more meaningful. I personally love this vintage vase.” — Stefani Stein
“Show your appreciation for the traditions of summer by gifting the host with a set of natural woven plate chargers or a set of beautifully printed linen dinner napkins. An alternative gift to consider, if you know wine will be served, is a pair of wine coasters. Any host who loves to entertain will appreciate the layering pieces.” — Kenneth Boyer and Kristin Gunnette
One-Night’s Stay
“When spending one night at a host’s home, I like to gift a gorgeous serving dish or tray. After all, their perfectly concocted hors d’oeuvre and crudites need equally amazing containers. I love this one here.” — Maureen Stevens
“A single night’s stay often necessitates a small gift that can tuck into an overnight bag. Vintage Virginia Metalcrafters brass leaf trays are a favorite of mine and the perfect host gift. I especially love this Calla Lily Leaf and this Lotus Leaf.” — Stefani Stein
“A vintage picture frame is the perfect gift for the person who loves displaying memories, family, and travels. If visual minimalism is more of your hostess’s decorating style, select a statement coffee table book that complements the space with a subject matter reflecting upon the essence of summer.” — Kenneth Boyer and Kristin Gunnette
Weekend Stay
“When visiting for a weekend, I always try to arrive with sweet treats in tow. The seasonal couture dozen from Deluscious Cookies is a definite crowd pleaser!” — Stefani Stein
“For a stay that lasts longer than one night, I always love to provide a more thoughtful art piece that you know the host will love. When it comes to choosing the piece, I recommend considering whatever they are interested in, or something that represents the place you are visiting. For example, if you’re staying in Miami, look for a piece of art inspired by Miami.” — Maureen Stevens
Week-Long Stay
“An extended stay definitely calls for cocktails! Go with a vintage cocktail shaker, or The Plum Cocktail Shaker by Tom Dixon for a new-buy option. Tom Dixon’s is a classic that hits the mark on both form and function.” — Stefani Stein
“When you are looking for that perfect gift to show your gratitude for a week’s stay, we recommend considering something that reflects the interests and personality of the host. A substantial throw blanket is a perfect gift for someone who loves watching movies at home. It’s also a symbolic representation of warmth and generosity.” — Kenneth Boyer and Kristin Gunnette
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