10 Hostess Gifts You'll Want to Keep

The holiday season really should be renamed party season.

From the office to the neighbours, everyone is in party mode, and happy to send invitations and celebrate the season and the year that's almost done.

Good guests know that a tasty libation is always welcome at any party, but bringing something unique for the host or hostess will guarantee you a permanent spot on the invitation list.

For those who want some suggestions - a list of items that are easy to find, easy to wrap and affordable for your favourite party people.

SLIDESHOW: HOSTESS GIFTS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

1. HOSTING FOR HOPE - gift-givers can benefit their host and the Canadian Women's Foundation by choosing one of 11 selected gifts from Winners or Homesense, with proceeds benefiting local women's shelters. Scandinavian throw $39.99 via Winners/Homesense

2. CANADIAN SEA SALT - no need to look outside our borders for unique food products - the Vancouver Island Salt Company has it covered with its 100% Canadian sea salt for the gourmand. $15.00 via FoodiePages.ca

3. CORKCICLE - here's a new party helper, one that helps keep the wine at the right temperature after it's opened - and can easily be reused over and over every time. $25.00 via Indigo

4. BLACK MAGIC chocolates - a perennial favourite during the Canadian holiday season - who wouldn't want to choose from nuts, fruit cremes or caramel after a busy night of entertaining? $5.99 via national retailers

5. JULKUL pastry cutter set - this set of six cookie cutters includes the Santa, Mrs. Claus, as well as a reindeer, elf, boot, snowflake and a sleight to shape the ginger or sugar cookies into holiday faves. $4.99 via IKEA

6. CRACKED PEPPER and HOT MAPLE BBQ sauce - for those who prefer life with a dash of heat and don't mind standing in the cold in front of the grill, this Hot Mamas sauce will be a warm accompaniment to any meat or veg. $7.99 via FoodiePages.ca

7. WILLIAMS FRESH CAFE Bamboo Fiber Travel Mug - the eco-friendly option for those who need their coffee or tea when they head out the door, this 14oz mug is 100% biodegradeable and dishwasher safe. $13.95 via Williams Fresh Cafe

8. MONOGRAMMED Guest towels - add a touch of elegance for a host's powder room with these disposable towels available in ivory/gold showcasing a letter - A to Zed available. $8.99 via Bed, Bath & Beyond

9. OUR FINEST Deluxe mixed nuts - make life easy for the hostess with a gift that can be the perfect snack during holiday movie viewing - or shared with guests. $9.98 via Walmart

10. WHOLE HOME candles - two votive candles in mercury glass will add a touch of sparkle to party table setting - and can easily be reused with a tealight when candle is done. set of two $6.99 via Sears