Gift Guide: The Hostess

I can not throw a party to save my life.  I learned back in high school (hi, Mags!) that I am about as good at throwing parties as Mary Tyler Moore:  in other words, my parties tend to suck.  Now, I can be the guest of honor at a good party.  I can attend a good party.  I can help plan a good party.  I can not throw a good party.  I think the most infamous of my bad parties included a knife fight and a guy dancing with a lawnmower.  Believe it or not, no alcohol was involved.  Maybe it should have been.

People who can throw an entertaining shin-dig fascinate me.  I tip my hat to them.  With that, I give you the gift guide for the Hostess, or alternately, Little Suzy Homemaker:  that throwback to the Mad Men era who keeps a clean house, a stocked bar, and fabulous style. 

First up is this stunning Jessie Steele apron.  It's a bib-style full-apron with a cinched waist and a stripe/cherry print motif.  Keeps a cute outfit clean, but without sacrificing style.  Heck, that would make most of my party outfits look better.  With attached terry towel.  $33.95, jessiesteele.com.

Photo credit:  jessiesteele.com

Next is a gorgeous art deco martini set.  Crystal cut glasses, a matching shaker (not the one pictured, oddly), and a to die for serving tray dress up any occasion.  $85.00, martiniart.com.

Photo credit:  martiniart.com

Lastly, we have a set of monogrammed hand towels.  Actually, you can get the entire bath collection, but what hostess with the mostess wouldn't love a nice set of monogrammed hand towels on display in the guest bathroom?  You know, in case you forget who's throwing the party.  Trust me, that can happen.  $7.99-$19.99, Bed Bath and Beyond. 

Photo credit:  bedbathandbeyond.com