Entries in Hostess Gift (2)

Wednesday
Aug122009

SHORT AND SWEET

I never like to show up empty handed. And sometimes bringing your host or hostess the ubiquitous bottle of vino feels a bit witless. In that case, it's fun to whip up something simple to take along as a token. This brown sugar shortbread does the trick- and with only a handful of ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.

Using brown sugar adds depth to the flavor and a good sprinkle of kosher salt on the top makes it my new favorite salty sweet treat. Here's my take on this classic treat with a little twist. So simple, any shawty can pull it off.

Thursday
Apr092009

Hostess (Gifts) With The Mostess

As all of you Seattlites come out of hibernation to attend to spring flings and summery soirees, you may be wondering what to bring to your host or hostess. Flowers require water and a vase. A bottle of red or white can get lost in the shuffle. Candles are nice, but I've deliberated for hours on which aroma fits my host's abode. A failsafe treat for your tosty hosty is a bottle of bubbles bundled up in some chic paper.

To begin with, everyone should have a celebratory bevie in their fridge at all times, so at the very least, you're simply equipping your friend with the necessary tools of living the good life. So...which bottle? Asti Spumanti has been out since high school. Dom is likely to dominate your wallet. But there are some delicious and reasonable alternatives out there that are beautifully packaged and universally tasty. My go-to bottle for all occasions (and any host) is Riondo Prosecco. Even boys will feel okay about stocking it next to their PBR. And for the lovely ladies in your life, be sure to holla at Riondo's sexy sis, all pretty in pink. Sure to elicit hip bumps and clinking glasses.

Having a few bottles of each in your arsenal is  a surefire way to be invited back. Simply bundle them in a little neutral tissue and some fetching ribbon. You'll be the best guest in the eyes of your hostess with the mostess.