Dinner Party Don'ts: Ina Garten Reveals The Biggest Gift Mistake

David

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Post on Jun 02, 2025

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Dinner Party Don'ts: Ina Garten Reveals the Biggest Gift Mistake

Hosting a dinner party can be stressful, but the Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten, offers a wealth of knowledge to make your gatherings effortlessly chic. While her recipes are legendary, recently, Garten shared some surprising insights into the etiquette surrounding guest gifts – specifically, the biggest mistake people make. And it might surprise you.

The Gift That Keeps on Giving (the Wrong Impression): Flowers

In a recent interview, Ina Garten revealed that while flowers are a classic gesture, they can often be a problematic choice for a dinner party host. Why? Because they add another task to an already busy evening. The host now has to find a vase, arrange the flowers, and later deal with the disposal of wilting blooms. This, she suggests, is a significant burden, especially when the host is already juggling a complex meal and a roomful of guests.

Garten's not suggesting you should never bring flowers. However, she emphasizes the importance of considering the host's perspective and workload. A thoughtful alternative might be more appreciated.

Better Alternatives: Thoughtful and Practical Gifts

So, what should you bring to a dinner party? Garten subtly advocates for gifts that are both thoughtful and practical, relieving the host of potential burdens instead of adding to them. Here are a few ideas inspired by her advice:

• A bottle of good wine (or another beverage): This classic gift is always appreciated and readily integrates into the evening's festivities. Opt for something you know the host enjoys, or select a high-quality bottle from a local vineyard – supporting local businesses is always a bonus!

• A gourmet food item: Think artisanal cheeses, specialty olive oils, or a unique condiment. These add a touch of luxury to the meal and are far less demanding than a bouquet of lilies.

• A small, beautiful candle: This adds ambiance to the home after the party, a subtle yet welcome gesture that the host can enjoy long after the guests have left.

• A handwritten note: Sometimes the most meaningful gift isn't a tangible item at all. A heartfelt note expressing your gratitude for the invitation demonstrates genuine appreciation and thoughtfulness.

Beyond the Gift: Mastering Dinner Party Etiquette

While the gift is important, remember that graciousness extends beyond the present. Being a thoughtful guest encompasses many aspects of proper dinner party etiquette:

• RSVP promptly: This allows the host to plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary stress.
• Arrive on time (or slightly early): Punctuality shows respect for the host's schedule.
• Offer to help: Don't be afraid to lend a hand with setting the table, serving drinks, or clearing dishes.
• Engage in conversation: Make an effort to chat with your fellow guests and participate in the evening's social atmosphere.
• Send a thank-you note: A brief thank you note after the party is a lovely touch that reinforces your appreciation.

Conclusion: It's the Thought That Counts (and the Practicality!)

Ina Garten's advice on dinner party gifts highlights the importance of considering the host's perspective. While flowers might seem like a standard gesture, a more practical and thoughtful gift can be far more appreciated. Remember, the goal is to contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable evening, not add to the host's workload. So, next time you're headed to a dinner party, skip the flowers and opt for something that shows you truly care about the host's experience. What are your go-to dinner party gifts? Share your thoughts in the comments below!