Tricia Drevets, Author at 1800Flowers Petal Talk

24 Best Hostess Gift Ideas for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is filled with parties of all kinds, from the traditional dinner party to ugly sweater parties, and everything in between. And while everyone loves having a good time with friends and family, a busy social calendar means you’re going to be expected to show up at people’s houses bearing gifts — lots of them.

best hostess gift ideas with man handing hostess flowers

“If you’ve been invited to someone’s home for a meal or a party, you should bring a gift for your host,” says Jodi RR Smith, etiquette expert and president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. But you don’t have to break the bank for a hostess gift, she says. Smith says to always consider your own budget first when buying a gift, then take into account your relationship to the host and the kind of party you’re attending. For example, a small family gathering may warrant a more personal gift than an office party at a coworker’s home.

When it comes to choosing the right gift, it’s important to understand who your host is, Smith advises. “For example, if they have springtime allergies, flowers may not be a good idea. If they have dietary restrictions, avoid a food gift that they can’t enjoy. Or if your host has any medical or religious guidelines, wine may be precarious.”

To help ease some of the confusion about finding the right gift, we’ve rounded up some of the best hostess gift ideas for the holiday season or any time of year.

And remember: Your gift is intended for the host to enjoy, so don’t be offended if she does not make it a part of the festivities.

Best hostess gift ideas for the person with a green thumb

If there’s a gardener in your life, surprise them with a gift of green to brighten up their home or yard.

Azalea bonsai

This beautiful flowering tree is the perfect compact size to sit on a desk, kitchen counter, or coffee table.

best hostess gift ideas with garden stone

Personalized garden stone

Engraved with the names of the host and their family members, this delightful gift will spruce up an outdoor space, and do it with a personal touch.

Money tree

A verdant symbol of prosperity and an excellent way to bring some green inside during the winter.

best hostess gift ideas with Gardener Folding Seat With Tools

Gardner folding seat with tools

A gardener’s dream! This convenient all-in-one gardening kit includes all the tools they need to care for their precious plants and flowers — and the handy fold-up seat will allow them to do it in comfort.

Best hostess gift ideas for the master chef

For the hostess or host who loves to cook, find a gift that’s perfect for their favorite room — the kitchen.

Personalized recipe box

They’ll cherish this beautiful keepsake that houses old and new family recipes.

hostess gift ideas salad bowl cutting board

Salad bowl/cutting board/serving tray

Sometimes an idea comes along that makes you say to yourself, “Why didn’t I think of that?!” This is one of those times. This combo gift is genius and will save her a ton of space in her kitchen.

Kitchen linens

This classic bistro-style set, which includes an apron, oven mitt, and towels, will spruce up any collection of old dishcloths and pot holders.

Herb scissors

If you’ve ever chopped herbs with a knife, you know what an arduous task it can be. Make your hostess’ life easier with a pair of these scissors, and, oh, what the heck, throw in a garlic press while you’re at it. It’s shaped like a fish!

Best hostess gift ideas for the person who loves to entertain

Treat the friend who’s forever extending invites to a gift that will make entertaining a little easier and more fun.

Wine lover’s gift basket

This fully loaded package is designed for the entertainer. It comes complete with two bottles of wine and every kind of savory snack a hostess could need for an ample appetizer board. There are even some sweets thrown in for good measure!

White marble cheese slicer

This gorgeous cheese slicer is an elegant addition to a food-loving hostess’ partyware. Not only does it look great on a coffee table, but it will make it easy for her to slice her cheddars, Goudas, and Monterey Jacks at just the desired thickness.

best hostess gift ideas with Serving Ladder

Appetizer serving station

If you know a host or hostess who is always fighting to find space to display a lavish array of appetizers, this pretty wooden station is a total game changer. It looks great and makes all kinds of finger foods easy to access.

best hostess gift ideas Christmas Soy Candle

Scented candle

Filling your home with aromatic scents is a great way to set the tone for an event. This warming candle is a perfect gift for the hostess who wants to welcome her guests with the fragrance of the season.

Best hostess gift ideas for the workout fiend

Heading to a party with a fitness-loving host? Pick up one of these thoughtful gifts to support his or her athletic interests.

Personalized cooling towel

You know she’s going to be working up a sweat — a LOT — so a gift that will help her cool down will come in quite handy. And with her name written right on the towel, you can be sure no one else will confuse it for their own.

Personalized yoga mat

She’ll be hitting that downward dog pose in style with this personalized yoga mat. Its colorful, shimmering design makes it the ideal accessory for her to tote to the studio, or roll out in her living room.

Reusable shoulder tote

Keep your friend looking adorbs on her way to the gym with one of these environmentally friendly canvas bags. Choose from a variety of witty (and relatable) sayings, such as “Yoga, Coffee, Repeat” and “Gym and Tonic.”

best hostess gift ideas Insulated Water Bottle

Personalized insulated water bottle

Your host will stay well hydrated as long as she has this gift in tow — and having her name prominently displayed on the side will ensure she won’t mistake it for someone else’s.

Best hostess gift ideas for the person who enjoys the finer things

Treat your bon vivant friend to a thoughtful gift that matches her refined taste.

Spa basket

This gift basket is overflowing with luxurious beauty and self-care products, including a charcoal pore mask, a massaging tool, and an exfoliating towel to keep her skin glowing all winter long.

Sparkling wine

Nothing says “I’m cultured” quite like popping open a bottle of sparkling wine. Except, maybe, two bottles. Feed into their predilection by bringing them this duo of award-winning white and rosé wines from Harry & David.

Gourmet food basket

Satisfy their refined taste buds with this gift box that includes everything they need for an elevated appetizer spread. It’s complete with award-winning cheeses, richly flavored salami, a sweet barrel-aged balsamic glaze, champagne honey mustard, cute mini toasts, and more accoutrements.

hostess gift ideas flowers With Strawberries

Flowers and dipped strawberries

This seasonal display is perfect for the holidays and adds a touch of elegance and cheer to any home. Go the extra mile for your host by adding a box of chocolate-covered strawberries.

Best hostess gift ideas for the person with a sweet tooth

No matter the occasion, if you know your host or hostess likes his or her treats, you’ll want to come bearing gifts of the sweetest kind.

Splendid sweets basket

The chocoholic in your life will swoon over this generous selection of decadent treats. It has something for every palate, from white to dark chocolate and more craveable confections than you can count.

best hostess gift ideas with Ballotin Drizzled Strawberries

Filled chocolates and drizzled strawberries

What better indulgence is there than gorgeous chocolate-covered strawberries? How about a box of chocolates with Belgian fillings? Does that sound like something the chocolate-loving hostess might be interested in?

hostess gift ideas Entertainment Gift Basket

Dessert basket

This impressive collection of enticing baked goods ― with everything from buttercream frosted sugar cookies to moist cake slices and fudgy brownies ― will satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth.

best hostess gift ideas with Fruit Sweets Tower

Tower of fruit, sweets, and snacks

This sky-high stack of delights includes everything from fresh seasonal fruit, such as D’Anjou pears and mandarin oranges, to chocolate-coated pretzels and colorful gummy candies. A gift that will please every taste bud.

10 Thanksgiving Activities for the Whole Family That Promote Gratitude

Thanksgiving is a day when we gather with relatives we may not see very often. The holiday — which many people stretch out over several days instead of just the fourth Thursday in November — offers a wonderful opportunity for grandparents to engage with grandchildren and adult siblings to strengthen their connections, and form new ones.

But managing the inherent stresses of the season and the details that come with traveling to someone else’s home, or hosting a large meal at your own, can cloud the true significance of the occasion. The solution? Planning group activities that prompt meaningful conversation and laughter.

“Getting together with family over the holidays can be a way to step out of the busy-ness of everyday life and reconnect with people who know us best,” says therapist David Smith, LCSW, owner of Thriving Family Therapy. “It can be a chance to get and give advice and support, release stress, and build a reservoir of strength and courage to carry us through the months that follow.”

If you’re looking for new ways to bring the family together this Thanksgiving, here is a list of 10 activities to consider.

You may have heard of May Day flower gifting. Why not extend this sweet custom to Thanksgiving? Combine a healthy family walk with thoughtfulness by secretly delivering a festive fall flower bouquet to a neighbor’s doorstep. (Bonus points if it’s a neighbor you know is spending the holiday alone this year.) We love these bright mums and the fun containers they come in. If you want to spread even more love, visit a bunch of nearby houses, dropping a single bloom off at each.

thanksgiving activities flowers on doorstep

2. Make gratitude cookies

Many families take the time to share what they are thankful for on this special day. This year, try putting your thoughts into writing — icing writing, that is. A cookie decorating kit has everything you need for this Thanksgiving activity. When considering what to put on your cookies, try going beyond things like “Hope” and “Peace” and offer up more personal ideas, such as “New job” or “My kitten,” or even “Coffee” and “Naps.”

3. Volunteer together

A fantastic way to bond as a family is by serving others. Look for opportunities to volunteer as a group at your local soup kitchen or animal shelter. You can also check with meal delivery organizations for shut-ins, such as Meals on Wheels, and offer your help to give regular volunteers a break on Thanksgiving.

4. Participate in a turkey trot

These typically short, fun races often raise money for local charities and are designed for family participation. To make things more fun, order personalized team T-shirts or sweatshirts to wear during the event.

Spending meaningful time with [family members] can help put the major events of our lives into perspective and provide continuity.

david smith, LCSW

Owner, Thriving Family Therapy

5. Hold a scavenger hunt

Divide into groups for a friendly competition. In addition to giving out a list of easy things to gather — like acorns or red leaves — ask for photographic proof of things like Halloween decorations that are still up or friendly dogs or crazy squirrels. The sillier the photos, the better!

6. Find and paint rocks

Here’s a two-stepped Thanksgiving activity that requires movement and creativity. Before the meal, send some younger family members out on a rock-hunting expedition. Smooth and flat rocks are good choices, but also gather unusual shapes. Rinse the rocks and allow them to dry while everyone’s eating dinner. Afterward, use craft acrylic paint to create colorful masterpieces. Try turning them into animals or flowers, or painting inspirational messages on the surfaces. The finished rocks make great souvenirs of the day. You might even let folks take them home in a special Thanksgiving bag.

7. Craft your family tree

Here’s a fun idea that will get the different generations talking, and it couldn’t be easier. Draw a large tree trunk with empty branches on newsprint or a paper tablecloth. Then, use different finger paint colors to place everyone’s handprint to serve as tree leaves and additional branches. After the paint dries, you can add names and dates, and decorate this beautiful family tree as you wish.

8. Thank each other

Even though we may be spending time with people we see infrequently, we can still take each other for granted. Here’s a way to tell someone exactly what you appreciate about them. Put everyone’s name in a basket for a random drawing. Then, write a thank you card to the person whose name you draw. The idea is to share specific things you admire about them. You can read the finished notes aloud to the group or share them privately, whichever you prefer.

9. Play the Ungame

This unique card game offers “thought-provoking, open-ended questions that really help you to understand each other better,” according to Smith. “We tend to have a set of assumptions about each other, but this game helps us get a better sense of how they (your family members) see the world.” Another good game for getting better acquainted with friends and family is “Do I Know You?”

10. Take a nighttime walk

Many families try to include a walk in their Thanksgiving schedule. This helps the kids let out some energy, and it can help you digest the big meal.

Taking a walk in the dark is an entirely different experience. Encourage everyone to listen to nocturnal sounds, note the phase of the moon, identify any visible stars, and just breathe in the night air. For some added fun, bring along some wintergreen-flavored candy mints. When you chew them, you may be able to see some cool sparks due to triboluminescence, the scientific name for making light with friction.

Sharing a meal or watching a football game with loved ones is fine, but Smith says to truly strengthen connections, you must be intentional about creating opportunities for meaningful interaction.

“Family members provide much of the context, history, and memories that most deeply define who we are,” Smith says. “Spending meaningful time with them can help put the major events of our lives into perspective and provide continuity.

“In these stressful times, it’s easy to become disconnected and feel isolated,” he continues. “Those moments of sharing and support are essential to keep us healthy.”

Picture of a 1-800Flowers Thanksgiving ad

Paws Up: 7 Ways to Celebrate National Dog Day

A 2023 survey by the American Pet Products Association found that 65% of households in the United States include a dog, and 85% of those respondents consider their dogs a member of the family.

And it’s easy to see why, says Nancy R. Gee, Ph.D., professor of psychiatry and director of the Center for Human-Animal Interaction at Virginia Commonwealth University.

“Dogs are amazingly adept at reading human social cues, such as body language and emotional states,” Gee says. “Dogs, unlike any other companion animal species, are extremely well suited to helping humans in so many ways, many of which we still don’t fully understand.”

Gee, who co-authored the research study “Dogs Supporting Human Health and Well-Being: A Biopsychosocial Approach” and co-edited the book “The Role of Companion Animals in the Treatment of Mental Disorders,” says the stresses of the pandemic lockdown spotlighted our desire for canine companionship.

“Dogs and humans are both social creatures,” she explains. “When humans were forced into social isolation by the pandemic lockdown, we sought out much-needed social connection, and dogs were an obvious choice. We were lonely, and dogs came to our rescue!”

If you are (or plan to be) a dog parent, National Dog Day is the perfect time to honor the special four-legged companion in your life. Held annually on Aug. 26, National Dog Day was founded by animal advocate Colleen Paige in 2004 as a way to encourage dog adoptions.

Are you looking for a late summer pick-me-up for you and your pooch? Here are seven ways to celebrate National Dog Day.

1. Host a dog day ‘do’

Invite a few other dog parents or dog-friendly folks to an outdoor party in your backyard. Or spread the word for an Aug. 26 meet-up at your favorite dog park.

Gee points out that dogs can serve as a “social lubricant” during these divisive times. “We can just talk about the dog in front of us and our own pets and not focus on those other more emotionally charged topics,” she says.

What to serve the humans? Hot dogs, of course. And for dessert, pick up a basket of treats that features an assortment of cookies and three different kinds of dog treats. Pawsome!

2. Take a hike

Group activities are fun, but what if you’d prefer some one-on-one time with your pet? Skip the crowded dog park and take a long walk together in a park or other natural setting.

“Biologically speaking, interacting with a dog has been found to reduce blood pressure and other indicators of stress, such as cortisol,” Gee notes. “Psychologically speaking, interacting with a dog has been found to reduce depression, anxiety, and elevate mood.”

When you combine those perks with fresh air and exercise, you’re doing a lot of good things for your health. However, staying hydrated is essential for both of you. That’s why you need a handy personalized dog water bottle to take with you on your adventure.

3. Cozy up on the couch

Since National Dog Day falls during the — ahem — dog days of summer, staying inside in an AC-controlled environment could be a better choice.

You can create your own National Dog Day movie marathon with classic films such as “My Dog Skip,” “Air Bud,” “Homeward Bound,” “Turner and Hooch,” “The Adventures of Milo and Otis,” “Benji,” and “Lassie.”

Make things extra cozy by cuddling up with your fur baby and a personalized fleece blanket. It can include your dog’s name and its phonetic pronunciation, as well as your choice of three humorous “definitions” that range from “Shoe chewer” to “Best friend.”

READ: 14 Best Gifts for Every Kind of Dog Lover

4. Get tricky

Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Dogs are eager to learn, and they love to please their humans. All you need is some time, patience, and tasty treats.

While you work on the first two requirements, these organic dog treats have got you covered for the third. Your dog will flip (or sit…or shake…or roll over) for these all-natural, oven-baked snacks that, at least as far as Fido can tell, taste like peanut butter cookies. And you’ll rest easy knowing they contain no wheat, corn, or soy.

5. Take a dog nap

Cat naps are great, but let’s face it, dogs have got the napping thing down, too. Plus, they are so adorable when they act like they’re running or bark while they’re dreaming.

Naps are also beneficial for humans. In fact, new research shows that brief daytime naps can boost our brain health.

A special napping pillow for your furry friend is a great way to celebrate National Dog Day. This personalized dog bone pillow can be embroidered with your pet’s name, and when things get a little too, umm, hairy, you can unzip the cover for washing.

6. Keep them safe

According to the Michelson Found Animals Foundation, one in three pets will get lost at some point in their lifetime, and without an ID, 90% will not return home. Microchipping and pet identification tags help your precious pet get back home safely.

You can make a new personalized collar part of this year’s National Dog Day celebration. This snappy plaid model can be imprinted with your dog’s name and your phone number, eliminating the need for a separate ID tag. The fabric collar comes in your choice of four colors.

7. Adopt a dog

Whether you’re looking for a new adventure buddy for yourself or a furry companion for your four-legged friend while you’re at work, your local animal shelter may have the perfect canine.

Check out your shelter’s website for photos and descriptions of their current guests, and then pay an in-person visit to see who has that special spark.

Of course, you’re going to want to celebrate the new addition to your family, and this important day, so have a “gotcha day” gift basket waiting for the pooch when he arrives at his new home. It includes cute toys, rawhide-free chews, carob chip treats, and a darling bow tie and bandana — all in a reusable woven rope tin.

Older and Better: 10 Birthday Party Ideas for Seniors

We call them milestone birthdays for a reason: They are, indeed, an occasion to recognize and honor someone for the person they are and everything they’ve accomplished. And when a senior is about to turn 70, 80, 90 — or anywhere above or in between — it is the perfect opportunity to celebrate.

“The memories you’ll have from a birthday party are ones you’ll have forever,” says Liz O’Donnell, author of Working Daughter: A Guide to Caring for Your Aging Parents While Making a Living and founder of Working Daughter, a community for women balancing eldercare with their own families and careers.

To help you plan a memorable event for a parent, grandparent, or any elder who means the world to you, we’ve compiled a list of 10 birthday party ideas for seniors.

1. Consider what type of party the honoree would like

“I hear this all the time: ‘I really want to create this memory for my mom’ or ‘I really want to make up for lost time,'” O’Donnell says. “But is that what you want or is that what they want?”

Getting input from the senior of honor is the best way to figure out what kind of party to have. For example, maybe they would prefer a large event with friends at a restaurant. Or perhaps their preference is for a small gathering with close family members at home. The easiest way to find out is just to ask. Which brings us to our next point…

2. Forget the surprise

Although a surprise party might sound tempting, O’Donnell warns against it. She explains that getting seniors to and from a location can take more time than you realize. Plus, “you’ll want to give them as much time as they need to show up and be at their best,” she adds.

3. Think about the timing

Early afternoon is often the time when many elders feel their best, and a weekend event allows guests to attend.

How long should the party last? The answer depends on the health and well-being of the honoree.

Regardless of the timeframe you choose, these personalized invitations will convey all the details of the big day to your guests, and do it warmly.

birthday party ideas for seniors with family toasting

4. Select the right location

Since every senior has different physical abilities, the party location should meet their needs for safety and comfort. Some seniors will welcome the chance to celebrate at a restaurant or community party room, while others will feel more at ease in a familiar environment, such as their apartment or the home of a relative.

5. Choose a theme

A party theme gives guests a direction for gifts, and it takes some of the creative pressure off you as the planner. A theme also helps you celebrate one of the honoree’s special interests. Here are a few ideas.

’50s sock hop
’60s Top 40 songs
Hunting or fishing
Vintage cars
Hollywood hits
Travel (focusing on places the honoree has visited)
Historical facts or trivia

Add to the fun by getting them a personalized oversized greeting card that includes information from their birth year. You also can gift the honoree a vintage-looking coffee mug that features their age, birth year, and a personalized greeting.

After you’ve chosen your theme, it’s time to incorporate it into the decorations. Movie posters, album covers, vintage sports equipment, photos, travel posters, and retro game boards all can be part of creating a fun atmosphere.

6. Serve light refreshments

The type and quantity of food you offer at a birthday party for seniors all depends on the time, size, and location of the event.

birthday party ideas for seniors with family clapping around table

In some cases, cake and punch may suffice. In others, a light lunch with finger sandwiches and fruit is appropriate. (If some of the pieces just happen to be dipped in chocolate, all the better!) And what’s a party without cookies and other baked treats?

7. Plan a few activities

Some seniors enjoy playing games, while others prefer one-on-one conversations. Whatever you do, try to avoid a situation where everyone is engaged in an activity while the person you’re celebrating is sitting on the sidelines watching, O’Donnell stresses.

One engaging activity that everyone can participate in — even young children — is taking turns sharing stories and remembrances involving the guest of honor.

8. Keep gifts simple

Many older adults are trying to get rid of the “stuff” in their lives, but that doesn’t mean you have to forego gift giving. Some ideas for heartfelt presents include:

Something connected with the theme — e.g., a 1960s playlist, a classic movie, a trivia card game, a fly-fishing tie.
A photo memory book or collection of letters to the honoree.
A non-perishable food item to donate to a local food pantry in the honoree’s name.
Filling a glass jar with encouraging notes — one for each of their years — or writing a special letter that everyone signs and then placing it in a keepsake message in a bottle.

birthday party ideas for seniors floral bouquet — Floral Embrace™

birthday party ideas for seniors with cookie pail — Sweet Birthday Wishes Cookie Pail

birthday party ideas for seniors personalized photo album — Modern Birthday Personalized Wood Photo Album

9. Tap a photographer

The best way to ensure you have plenty of photos to mark the special occasion is to ask someone to be in charge of taking pictures. Ask a friend or family member to be the de facto camera person, or hire a professional, if your budget allows.

10. Stay flexible

You know what they say about best-laid plans. That’s why you should be ready, willing, and able to switch things up at a moment’s notice if something doesn’t go according to the script.

Have a backup plan in case you need to move an outdoor event indoors or vice versa. Be ready to turn down the music or move your loved one’s chair away from the sunlight or ask someone to speak louder as the need arises.

Most of all, remember that a simple celebration can be just as meaningful and memorable as a big bash — and, sometimes, even more so. The most important thing is to celebrate a person who means so much to so many and to make even more memories with them.

Non-traditional Moms Gift Guide: Celebrating Moms of All Kinds

Mother’s Day is fast approaching, which means it’s time to think about how you will honor the special women in your life. Retailers are filled with cards and keepsakes that bear the words “mom” and “mother,” but what about gifts for all the non-traditional moms you know?

gifts for non traditional moms with young daughter kissing mom with flowers

These are the incredible ladies who have touched our lives as stepmoms, bonus moms, aunts, grandmas, mothers-in-law, coaches, neighbors, mentors, and trusted confidants. They may have stepped in when our own mothers could not or supported us in ways that have enriched our lives for the better.

Foster mothers take kids into their homes for a temporary period of time, but their impact can last a lifetime. “It’s different to be a foster mom on Mother’s Day because I think sometimes people don’t know how to define your role,” says foster mother Katie Hughes of Portland, Oregon. “But, ultimately, foster moms are moms, and we wholeheartedly love our kids and the role we play in their lives.”

Jillana Goble, foster mother and author of the book “No Sugar-Coating: The Coffee Talk You Need about Foster Parenting,” tells us, “Though we give them our all while they are in our home and around our table, we know the ultimate hope of foster care is that they will be able to be safe with their parent again. One child in my care acknowledged this by stating in a letter ‘To my favorite foster mom,’ and that felt special to me.”

Although foster moms and all the special non-traditional mothers out there will tell you that they do what they do out of love, Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show them how much you appreciate them.

A thoughtful note or card is a great place to start, and we’ve put together a list of some other gift ideas for non-traditional moms that will warm their hearts.

Mother’s Day gift ideas for non-traditional moms

Sweet Spring Lilies for Mother’s Day

Imagine her face as she discovers this beautiful bouquet at her door. This gift includes a lovely arrangement of lilies gathered in a timeless milk jug. She’ll also get a classic sun catcher to display in her window.

You’re the Best Treats Pail

Surprise your “bonus mom” with a bucket of cookies that will satisfy her sweet tooth. This gift features 17 delicious delights in all, including eight different varieties of cookies. She’ll love the darling reusable pail, too.

Two Dozen Assorted Roses

If you’re looking for a gift with a “wow” factor, look no further than this vibrant collection of roses. For an even sweeter touch, add a small box of chocolates to accompany your bouquet.

Cactus Dish Garden

We know she’ll find a good spot in her home for this Southwestern-style dish garden, which features an easy-to-care-for assortment of cacti and succulents.

Love Is Brewing Teapot

If you have enjoyed talking with your “other mother” over a cup of tea, you’ll want to gift her this teapot you can personalize with a special message. It comes with an infuser insert, and we think she’ll love the turquoise color.

Azalea Bonsai

Show her she’s one-of-a-kind with this unique Mother’s Day gift. The Satsuki azalea bonsai blooms pink flowers in late spring and sports glossy green leaves all year long.

Succulent Fruit & Snacks Tower

Sweet-tasting fruit and treats, along with some savory snacks, are piled high in this impressive tower. She’ll enjoy pears and oranges, caramel corn and peanut brittle, cheddar cheese and summer sausage, and many more delights to make her taste buds happy.

Classic Budding Rose

Your appreciation is in full bloom with our pink rose plant. Designed in an elegant planter with a sweet floral design, this gift brings a nostalgic touch to any sunny spot in the home. It also includes calming Camille Beckman hand lotion in a signature floral fragrance and a rose-scented Yankee Candle.

“Mother’s Day is a chance to recognize that a lot of women do a lot of collective loving and nurturing and making the world go round through offering children stability,” Goble says. “The responsibilities of motherhood are great and, as any experienced mom knows, can be thankless, so while chocolates and flowers on Mother’s Day are not expected, they’re always appreciated.”

8 Easter Egg Hunt Ideas to Keep the Fun Rolling

Egg hunts were part of life long before they were wrapped into the Easter holiday.

Ace Collins

Author of Stories Behind the Traditions and Songs of Easter

Whether you hide jelly beans in your living room, plastic eggs in your backyard, or dyed hard-boiled eggs in your local park, an Easter egg hunt is a fun way to celebrate both the Easter holiday and the arrival of spring. Even the White House gets into the act with a free online ticket lottery, allowing families across the country to participate in the annual event.

But how did the Easter egg hunt become a holiday tradition? We’ve decided to take a crack at opening the history of this colorful event and offer some ideas for hosting your own hunt this year.

How did Easter egg hunts get started?

Although Easter is a religious holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, many of its customs have pagan roots.

“When people convert to a religion, their past goes with them,” explains Ace Collins, author of Stories Behind the Traditions and Songs of Easter. “The egg has been a symbol of life since the beginning of time, and egg hunts were part of life long before they were wrapped into the Easter holiday.”

Eggs are an important food source. Throughout the centuries parents have sent their children out to hunt for eggs, Collins further explains.

easter egg hunt with kids and mom collecting easter eggs

One theory for the Easter tie-in is that early Christians often gave up eating eggs for Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter. Many people would decorate their eggs to mark their fast and then bring them to church to be blessed by the priest as part of the Easter celebration. Over time, this tradition of decorating eggs became intertwined with the Easter holiday.

We can thank German immigrants for bringing the Easter egg hunt to America in the late 18th century. Germans who settled in Pennsylvania brought their tradition of the egg-laying hare (called the “Osterhase” or “Oschter Haws”), and their children made nests and carried grass-lined baskets for their Easter eggs.

And where does the Easter Bunny fit in? Collins says that children often scared rabbits away from the meadows when hunting for eggs. As a result, some little ones believed the rabbits had left behind the eggs. “We would not have the Easter Bunny tradition without the Easter egg hunt,” Collins notes.

Today, although Easter remains a religious holiday, Easter egg hunts have become a way for children to have wholesome fun together. “Although we may now have plastic eggs and new ways to color and decorate eggs, the hunt itself has not changed through the years,” Collins says. “It still involves children trying to find as many eggs as they can.”

Tips for hosting an Easter egg hunt

The basics for staging an Easter egg hunt are easy. All you need are willing participants, baskets or other containers, eggs (hard-boiled, candy, or plastic), and an open space.

If you’re planning an outdoor event, make sure you have a backup location in mind in case the weather turns cold or soggy. Also, consider the ages and abilities of the children, placing eggs in places that are easy for the youngest participants to find and more challenging for older ones.

The rest is up to you. You can make things as creative and as competitive as you wish. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

1. Include words of encouragement

Instead of filling all the plastic eggs with candy or money, switch it up by placing some secret messages inside. You can explore the true meaning of the holiday with Bible verses or include expressions of love and kindness. Or what about including a voucher for a movie night or lunch “date”?

2. Use personalized baskets

Surprise your children on Easter morning with personalized baskets. These attractive willow baskets come with folding handles, and you can have your child’s name embroidered on the removable liner.

easter egg hunt with girl hiding behind easter flower basket

3. Delight them with desserts

You are sure to see smiles when your kids or grandkids find yummy treats on their hunt. The Easter Sweets Gift Box comes with an assortment of goodies that you hide around the yard, including milk chocolate malt balls, malt ball mini eggs, and orange buttercream-frosted cookies in the shape of carrots.

4. Don’t forget the chocolate

Who says you can’t hide a few chocolate bunnies along with the eggs? Nobunny, that’s who! Your kids will love the look and taste of this adorable foursome of Easter bunnies.

5. Try a scavenger hunt

You can tuck clues inside each child’s basket that take them from one location to another and ultimately lead them to a prize. Or give each kid a checklist of the different colored eggs they need to find. Make sure there’s no confusion during the thrill of the hunt by affixing these personalized wooden tags to each basket.

easter egg hunt with girl picking up easter eggs

6. Plan a pre-hunt activity

Looking for a way to get your participants in the Easter spirit before the search even begins? This Easter Cut-Out Cookie Decorating Kit includes everything you need to make two dozen buttercream-frosted cookies, decorated any way you like.

7. Keep the hunt going at mealtime

Are you hosting an Easter brunch? Hide a few eggs among the place settings and centerpiece. The pastel blooms and colorful plastic eggs in the Easter Egg Basket add a festive touch.

8. Tally the count and offer prizes

As the event host, you’ll need to count the eggs you hide so you’ll know when they’ve all been found. Of course, the child with the most eggs should be rewarded, but you can also offer prizes for things like diligence and patience. These Easter Gift Tin Ornaments are the perfect prizes. Each one includes a selection of cookies and snacks, and comes with a hang tag that allows you to personalize it.

9 St. Patrick’s Day Gift Ideas for Friends and Family

Watching a colorful parade. Enjoying a plate of corned beef and cabbage and a pint of green beer at the pub. Wearing green to an after-work party. These are just a few of the traditional ways people celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with friends and family.

st. patricks day gift ideas with cookies and flowers

Another way to spread the magic of St. Patrick’s Day is by giving gifts to your loved ones. Freda Hayes of Blarney Woolen Mills, an Irish goods store in Blarney, Ireland, tells us that you can pass on the luck of the Irish by gifting something green.

“Shamrock grows freely in the gardens of Ireland,” Hayes says, “but there is probably a garden center near you that sells shamrock plants.” She also recommends a home celebration that includes “plenty of Irish music and dancing, and lots of traditional Irish food on the table.” She suggests serving up heaping amounts of traditional Irish stew and lots of spuds (potatoes).

As the saying goes, everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. With that in mind, here’s a list of St. Patrick’s Day gift ideas to get your loved ones in the green spirit this March 17.

St. Patrick’s Day gift ideas for the home

Green is the color associated with Ireland, aka the Emerald Isle. This St. Patrick’s Day, why not decorate your home with green shamrocks, green leprechauns, and green flowers?

Lucky Clovers Oxalis Plant

This charming plant features delicate white blooms and green clover-shaped leaves in a festively decorated wrap. Along with an inscribed shamrock keepsake, this gift is the perfect way to send good luck to someone for St. Patrick’s Day.

Traditional Irish Blessing Personalized Cross

You can personalize this wooden cross with any family name. It comes in two sizes — 5×7 and 8×12 — and is sure to bring positive thoughts to your fortunate recipient all year long.

Irish Pride Embroidered Sherpa Blanket

This cozy blanket, which comes in two sizes, can be personalized with a name that is bracketed by stitched-on shamrocks. It’s perfect for snuggling under on those cold winter nights while sipping an Irish coffee.

St. Patrick’s Day gift ideas for the wardrobe

Part of the St. Patrick’s Day lore is that wearing green on March 17 brings good luck. Others say it helps you avoid being pinched by a mischievous leprechaun!

First St. Patrick’s Day Baby Bodysuit

Keep that lucky new addition to the family safe from a leprechaun’s pinch with this personalized bodysuit. It’s made of 100 percent cotton jersey and is available in sizes six months to 18 months.

Wish Bracelet

Share the luck of the Irish with this sweet, delicate shamrock bracelet. Make a wish as you tie the bracelet around your wrist and when it falls off, your wish is supposed to come true!

Personalized St. Patrick’s Day Adult Socks

Everyone has a pair of socks they consider lucky. Why not get that special someone a set that actually has that message stitched right on them? These are so lucky, they’re guaranteed never to get lost in the wash. (Disclaimer: The previous statement cannot be verified.)

St. Patrick’s Day gift ideas to eat

Sweet treats — especially if they are green in color — are the perfect way to mark St. Patrick’s Day. You can make a batch of delicious homemade cookies, of course, but you may not be able to resist these ideas.

‘Feeling Lucky’ St. Patrick’s Day Gift

Share a little St. Patrick’s Day cheer with a gift that’s as good as gold. There’s plenty of tasty treasures to discover, including chocolate-covered sandwich cookies, mini mints, and chocolate coins.

Packed With Pop® Luck of the Irish

Everybody loves popcorn. And with a horseshoe and green clover on the box, you know it’ll make for some good munching on March 17.

Breakable Chocolate Pot of Gold & Cookies

Give them a gift that will ensure they have a smashing good time this St. Paddy’s Day. With wooden mallet in hand, they’ll bust open the chocolate pot o’ gold to reveal a stash of candy-coated chocolates. Shamrock-shaped cutout cookies and gold foil-wrapped chocolates round out this generous gift.

Coloring the future green: Irish Heritage Tree

Here’s a unique way to honor someone you love. In cooperation with IrishCentral and the Irish Tree Council, the Irish Heritage Tree program will plant a tree in County Tipperary, Ireland, in that person’s honor and send you a certificate of dedication.

“IrishCentral actually launched the Irish H e ritage Tree during the pandemic,” says Toby McCoy, spokesperson for Irish Heritage Tree. “We reflected on all the Irish around the world who would be unable to make their annual visit and envisioned this endeavor as a way for them to connect with Ireland by planting a tree in honor of a loved one or in celebration of a family occasion or holiday.”

Top 7 Floral Trends for 2024

“Joyful and lively color is important because it is upbeat and can transform your mood and lift your spirits.

Valerie Ghitelman

Vice president, product development, design, and sourcing

1-800-Flowers.com

In 2023, many of us were able to enjoy travel and special events that had been put on hold by the pandemic. We visited with friends and family we had seen only over video calls for far too long. And we took renewed pleasure in nature’s gifts.

In other words, the pandemic has helped shape our perspective on who and what is truly important. Our loves ones, our community, and our mental health are at the top of our list of priorities, and we’ve found that flowers and plants serve as a vital connection to all three. We want them in our homes, workplaces, schools, and everywhere else we gather.

To find out what 2024 has in store for floral trends, we asked Valerie Ghitelman, vice president of product development, design, and sourcing at 1-800-Flowers.com, for her thoughts.

1. Vibrant colors

Bold, bright shades signify hope and optimism, and blooms and floral arrangements in striking hues are on trend for this year.

“We developed designs with vibrant, colorful accents for 2024, making the overall look exciting, cheerful, and optimistic,” Ghitelman says.

floral trends with man holding brightly colored flowers

Magenta will be popular, since “Viva Magenta” was the Pantone color of the year for 2023. And on the heels of the “Barbie” phenomenon, hot pink is hot as ever.

“Joyful and lively color is important because it is upbeat and can transform your mood and lift your spirits,” she explains.

2. Tranquility

While we enter 2024 with renewed optimism, we also yearn for peace and calmness. And fresh flower arrangements and plants can help us feel less stressed in our lives.

“White and cream as a monochromatic color scheme in design is an emerging color trend since it provides tranquility in a demanding world,” Ghitelman says.

“These colors are often used to soften and neutralize arrangements,” she continues. “Arrangements with serenity and calm help quiet our surroundings, creating a more relaxed and soothing environment.”

3. Nostalgia

“Transparent colors in soft faded hues are also comforting and serene,” Ghitelman notes, adding that she sees an interest in vintage colors such as soft peach, pink blush, soft rose, and lilac tones mixed with neutrals.

She mentions that light, washed colors possess a sense of antiquity, underscoring a nostalgic Victorian trend.

4. Wedding flowers

Brides who have put off their weddings until now have had a lot of time to ponder their flower options, Ghitelman says, and they, like so many of us, have likely turned to social media for inspiration. There, they have been inundated by more colorful designs and accents to celebrate the big day.

“Couples are looking for more punch and less tradition, and are opting for non-conventional styling as well as colors that are bold,” she says.

She also notes that bouquets are taking on new shapes outside the typical round configuration. Brides, for example, may choose dainty arrangements that can be easily carried in one hand or larger asymmetrical bouquets that include foliage, fronds, leaves, and other non-floral elements.

5. Houseplants

There’s been a renewed interest in caring for and decorating with houseplants, and Ghitelman doesn’t see that changing anytime soon.

“Planting seeds and watching plants grow provide a sense of self-worth and optimism as people are looking for value and meaning in their homes,” she shares. “The idea of connecting with nature is significant as a way of improving indoor air quality as well as impacting our well-being in a positive way.”

Other offshoots of the houseplant trend for 2024 include:

Swapping and gifting plant cuttings with friends, family, and the community
Pet-friendly plants
Collecting unique pots and planters
Hanging baskets
Herb growing kits
Indoor “garden rooms” and greenhouses
Plant prints and patterns for decorative accessories

6. The Royals

King Charles III of England was crowned last May, and floral designers predict that the lily of the valley — a favorite among the royals for several decades — will be trending on this side of the Atlantic as a result.

“This white bloom symbolizes love, motherhood, and purity,” Ghitelman notes. “It was featured in the Queen’s coronation bouquet in 1953 and was included in Kate Middleton’s wedding bouquet when she married Prince William.”

King Charles III, who is responsible for the restoration of about 60 wildflower meadows in the U.K., has revealed that his favorite bloom is the delphinium.

“Bluebells will be in season for the coronation,” Ghitelman explains. “These add a fresh and natural component to any floral display. We may also see primrose flowers for color, with their creamy yellow blooms.”

7. Sustainability

Mindfulness and caring for the environment are also part of the 2024 floral trends.

“We are using more sustainable flowers and greenery that can last longer and provide the recipient more time to enjoy their arrangements,” Ghitelman explains. “Flowers like chrysanthemums, carnations, cremones, roses, and lilies have a longer vase life than other more tender floral varieties.

“The addition of greenery is also an essential element in floral design, and greenery has greater longevity.”

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4 Steps to Becoming a More Positive Person

“I encourage people to look at self-care as a living, organic thing. We need to stay open and flexible, and not try to keep doing things the way we have always done them.

Vanessa Joy Walker

Certified life and leadership coach

The past few years have been filled with uncertainty. This turbulent time has challenged our ability to maintain a hopeful outlook. Yet, a large body of research shows that positive thinking benefits our immune system as well as our overall mental and physical well-being.

Developing an upbeat attitude is not about ignoring the troubles of life; it’s about making room for the good things that happen — no matter how small they may be.

“Sometimes the best path toward a more positive mindset is finding the freedom to dig into all the messy stuff in a way that is productive,” says Vanessa Joy Walker, a certified life and leadership coach, and author of the book “Make Room for Joy.” “When we do that, we can see the possibilities that are embedded in the problems.”

4 steps to leading a more positive life

We all have our own “messy stuff” to deal with — some more than others — and Walker understands that. Here, she offers four ways for how to be more positive in our everyday lives.

1. Live for today

“Sometimes, we get so focused on the past or the future that we don’t experience the present,” she explains. “We are constantly scrolling — and not just on social media but in our lives — to find the things that will fill us up. But we are missing what is happening right now.”

Walker suggests setting aside time to identify the things that are stressing us out and deciding how we feel about them. Taking only 15 minutes to write down these concerns, she says, can help alleviate anxiety and fear.

“Addressing the mess is essential, but give yourself boundaries,” she emphasizes. “I always say, ‘Address those worries, but don’t take a bath in them.'”

2. Practice the pause

“We all say we want to practice more self-care and find more peace. But, then, why is it so difficult for us to just be still?” she asks.

Walker says she uses a timer to remind herself to take short breaks throughout the day. These pauses can include taking a walk, making a cup of tea, reading a book, or taking a quick nap. “No social media and no using the pause as something to check off your to-do list,” she advises, adding that the type of break can differ according to what your needs are on that particular day.

3. Express gratitude

“Gratitude is a posture, a way of looking at life,” Walker says. “It allows us to see possibilities in our problems. When we see possibilities, we are more hopeful. And when we are more hopeful, we have a positive mindset.”

how to be more positive with co-workers congratulating colleague

While Walker says it’s important for us to express gratitude as much as we can, she acknowledges that having to come up with a list of things for which we are thankful can feel overwhelming or burdensome. In those cases, it’s OK to dial it back. “It can be just one thing,” Walker says. “It’s almost impossible not to find one thing to be grateful for.”

4. Embrace flexibility

“When things are uncertain, our routines and rituals change,” Walker says. “I encourage people to look at self-care as a living, organic thing. We need to stay open and flexible, and not try to keep doing things the way we have always done them.”

One of the benefits of cultivating a more positive outlook is that it can be contagious. When you model a hopeful attitude, it encourages others to do the same thing.

The importance of ‘being there’

Another way to share a message of hope is by giving gifts — an act that is scientifically proven to be just as beneficial to the giver as the receiver. When you get a gift for someone, it shows them that you are there for them, and that, in turn, can help them — and you — become more positive.

Walker puts it this way: “Over the past few years, all of us have experienced uncertainty, fear, frustration, and grief. That grief may be the loss of a loved one or the grief for the past — that (sense of) ‘normal’ that may never happen again.

“But when you step into that mess with someone and say, ‘I am here for you,’ that is empathy. And that can help both of you feel a little bit better.”