You are thrilled with the invitation – what could be more relaxing and restful than a weekend away from it all with friends or family in the countryside. Fresh air in the daytime and much merrymaking in the evening. Perfect!
The weather looks decidedly British so you know you will need wellies and a warm coat but quite possibly a gilet and chunky jumper will be the order of the day for Sunday’s pub lunch when the sun is due to shine.
We have pretty tops and nice trousers for the girls and fancy shirts and suede shoes for the boys on Saturday evening and the dog is groomed and anticipating fun, fun, fun.
And now thoughts turn to what to take as a gift. Presents for hosts are always tricky; you want to take a gift that’s appropriate, sure to please yet not appear to be over the top. It’s a fine balance, particularly when the host seems to ‘have everything’.
So, what makes a good gift for a host? Thoughtfulness is the key word here. They have probably gone to some effort to create a warm and welcoming home for your stay so its important to arrive with a considered something.
Busy people always appreciate a contribution to the catering. Bake a cake, take homemade jam, or preserves or bring along a selection of nibbles.
However, time doesn’t always allow for this. Instead, flowers or a potted plant alongside a bottle or two of wine are always welcome. But what about a gift for the host that is tailored to the recipient’s unique personality?
Baydon Grange Gifts has a curated collection of presents perfect for the country home. Simply browse the ‘rooms’ at Baydon Grange where you will be transported to a country house and guaranteed to find winning items.
If the man of the house is Land Rover or tractor mad pick up a little collection of amusing vehicle embellished presents such as a tractor key ring or a Land Rover bottle stopper. A pair of crystal etched whiskey tumblers would make a lovely gift, especially with the addition of a bottle of fine malt whisky. Likewise, a bottle of your local gin with a pair of gin balloons are likely to bring a smile.
Presents for the home might include a beautiful photograph frame or a pretty silver jam pot and spoon – your host might not buy the latter for themselves but if they are the sociable type who likes things done ‘properly’, they are likely to be thrilled with this.
If the garden brings joy, inspired presents for him or her might include a metal bird silhouette, or a selection of garden essentials such as twine in a jar, snips, gardeners handwash and plant labels in a durable gardening bag.
Creative thinking is often preferable to generosity so be thoughtful, think ahead and have a great weekend!