If you’re dining at someone else’s Thanksgiving table this year, it calls for a hostess gift.

A host or hostess gift is a traditional gesture of gratitude, and even in these post-Emily Post days, people still routinely offer them. Right at the top of the list of acceptable host gifts, you’ll find flowers. Which makes sense – they breathe life into a home, bringing in warmth, vibrancy and often a really nice scent. Also at the top of the list: gift baskets. What’s better than getting a bundle of goodies on your doorstep? Lucky for you, we at Port Charlotte Florist know a thing or two about both of these gift-worthy items.

We can agree that your holiday hosts deserve great gifts, but what makes for a great floral or basketed gift? We love our Tropical Cylinder arrangement as a host gift for several reasons. First, it’s a one-of-a-kind custom piece, so there’s something unique and special about it, which we all want our gifts to be. It can also work both indoors or outside, as a striking patio table centerpiece or decor. Also, it’s a conversation piece. Watch the other Thanksgiving guests try to identify all of the unusual (and local) flowers.

On the other hand, our Large Gourmet Basket is the perfect host gift for those whose floral preferences you may not know (and let’s face it, anyone who enjoys food enjoys a basket of it). This one is chock full of goodies such as cheeses and chocolates, which are sure to be devoured the day after Thanksgiving. It’s nice to have some food you don’t have to prepare after hosting such a big dinner.