What to Bring to a Dinner Party: 15 Chic Gifts That Go Beyond Flowers

Rosa Morell

Intimate small-plates soirées or lavish three-course affairs–every dinner party carries an unspoken rule: never arrive empty-handed. To ensure you stand out from the bouquet-bearing crowd, I’ve scoured boutiques, independent labels and heritage brands to curate a collection of gifts that feel more personalised than predictable.

From artisanal pantry picks and bold bar cart additions to sculptural glassware and standout soft furnishings, these are the thoughtful ‘thank yous’ that your host will be overjoyed to receive when you arrive at their door.

Nito Vermouth

This bold, after-hours aperitif packs an almighty punch on the palette, and, better still, outshines most bottles in a busy drinks cabinet. Best sipped slowly, surrounded by good company, don’t be surprised if it’s uncorked the second you’re sat down.

Diptyque Room Spray

The competitive type? This room spray will earn you instant bragging rights in the gift-giving stakes. Evoking every element of the fig tree – the sun-ripened sweetness of the fruit, the crisp freshness of the leaves and the earthy warmth of bark, it’s guaranteed to be well received, even by the fussiest of fragrance fans.

Ifsthetic Wugo Pillow

With its handwoven silk construction and unexpected (but welcome) fringe detailing, the Wugo Pillow is a must-have for the maximalists out there. From brightening a solitary chair or making a statement on a sofa, this will spark the start of your giftee’s collection, but certainly not the end of it.

Tierra Cocida Butter Dish

Funky and functional, this Blue & White Artisan Butter Dish is a breath of fresh air in a sea of beige kitchenware. Pop a block of artisanal butter inside (the bolder the better) and it’ll be a winner in any foodies’ books.

Audrey’s Chocolate Bar Library

Rich formulations, unexpected combinations and sustainability at the core of their craft, Audrey’s chocolate is a masterclass in artisanal excellence. Their Bar Library is complete with eight different bars, spanning light to dark, sweet to savoury, creamy to tangy. One thing’s for sure: there’ll be no more late-night dashes for Dairy Milk.

Team Tartufi Truffle Oil

Truffle oil? In this economy? Nothing says ‘thanks for having me’ quite like a bottle of Team Tartufi’s. Decadent, delicious and endlessly versatile, it’s perfect for drizzling (read: pouring) over your sourdough, pasta, pizza and even popcorn.

Le Faîte Red Wine

Dependable and delicious, a well-picked red is a fail-safe dinner party present. Case in point: Le Faîte. With layers of liquorice and black fruits underscored by bitter chocolate and leather aromas, this confident and complex bottle will be a regular in any wine lover’s rotation.

Maegen Statement Plate

A dinner plate with a little extra personality? Always a hit – and this one from Maegen is no exception. Pile it high with cheese, cured ham, olives and bread, and watch the writing slowly appear as your fellow diners tuck in. Expect a swift reinvite… and a request for another plate whilst your host’s at it.

Verden Scented Candle

Every host knows the heartbreak of a dwindling candle stash. Take this as your sign to top theirs up with Verden’s Arborealist Candle: a nostalgic, warming blend of woods and smoky greens that lingers long after its final flicker. As for the packaging? Let’s just say it more than earns its spot on their shelf or side table.

Maegen Bubble Matches

Paired with these matches from Maegen, a candle quickly turns from a thoughtful gift into a considered ritual. Housed in a beautiful bottle, each match feels more meaningful, like an invitation to slow down and savour the simple act of lighting a candle.

Le Creuset Cafetière

Le Creuset’s answer to a French Press is predictably chic, making it a must-have in any coffee lover’s collection. Available in an array of happy hues, this cafetière delivers a feel-good start to the day on looks alone. But rest assured, rave reviews promise a compliment-worthy cup of coffee to boot.

Crumbs Recipe Book

Perfect for your sweet-toothed friend, Crumbs is jam-packed with over 300 dessert recipes from all over the globe. Translation: expect everything from teacakes, wafers, macaroons and cookies to come your way for taste testing.

&Klevering Tulip Glasses

Skinny-stemmed wine glasses with razor-sharp rims, you’ve had your moment. These Tulip Glasses with their fun, fluted detail, unexpected silhouette and 70s-esque green hues will breathe new life into any glassware collection. With or without a bottle to accompany, these are a go-to gift for a houseproud host.

Rosie Brain Embroidered Heart Ornament

If they’re particularly proud of their postcode, they’ll fall head over heels for these personalised Location Ornaments. Hand embroidered and crafted from silk, they’re waiting to be shown off – whether that’s dangling from a doorknob or hung from a bedpost. Pocked-sized, yes, but the perfect present for a smaller, more intimate soirée.

Doing Goods Miracle Fish Vase

While I mentioned that bouquets are a tad overdone, I never said vases were fully off the cards. So, meet the Miracle Fish Vase – a showstopping piece that will hold its own among the brightest of blooms. Handcrafted from glimmering gold-toned brass and finished with intricate floral detailing, it’s a present that’s more than worthy of its price tag.