(At Least) Five Simple Ideas for Thank you Gifts

Here are a few simple ideas for Thank you gifts the next time you’re invited away. 

Maybe I’m old fashioned or sentimental or just like giving presents, but when I’m invited away and someone else does all the preparation, I like to say Thank you with a simple gift. 

Do I always remember? No. 

Does it have to be expensive? No. 

Do I always have great ideas on hand? No again.

Actually, that’s why I need this list. Now, when I want to put together a Thank you gift, I don’t have to scramble for ideas while I pack for a weekend away. That’s something especially helpful during high travel times, like holiday season. 

If you ever find yourself wanting to give something but blanking on ideas, here are at least five simple ideas to say Thank you with a gift.

A Special Card

Sometimes, the most meaningful gift is a handwritten note straight from the heart.

When you put some thought into choosing the card (one just right for them) and writing some things you love about the person or the fun you had that weekend, you create a memorable connection for them and for you. 

Then, prop the note somewhere they will find it after you leave. It’ll be an unexpected surprise.

Need ideas for where to prop it? 

On the pillow of the bed you slept in. When they change the sheets … surprise!

On the sink of the bathroom you used. 

On the kitchen counter, so they find it when they get ready to cook again. 

Just don’t hide it too hard. You want them to find it.

Homemade Soap

Homemade soap is growing in popularity, and I can easily see why. It’s so much better than store bought soap! We like it so much that we started making our own. Now, we can even choose our own scents!

Whether you make your own soap to share or buy a few bars from your local maker, homemade soap makes a great Thank you gift. Just add a mini card and put it in a pretty gift bag.

A Tea and Honey Set

Put together a small set to make the perfect cup of tea: a sample of local honey, a box of delicious tea, a nice mug, and a mini card. 

This could easily be coffee, of course, especially if you’re giving it to a major coffee fan. You could add chocolate spoon for something fun instead of honey.  

A Candle

Need something really simple? Pick up a candle with a seasonal scent. They’ll remember the weekend every time they light it. 

Just add a bow and a note to make it loook extra special.

A Tea Towel and Hand Soap

Yes, another soap, but hand soap isn’t the same as body soap. Not to me. And some people don’t want handmade soap.

Choose a holiday scent or something special, like a limited edition scent. My favorite hand soap scent is Rhubarb by Mrs. Meyers, but I can’t always find it. That kind of soap would make the perfect gift. 

Add a colorful or printed tea towel for something fun and a special card. 

A Bottle of Wine

A bottle of wine can be really special. Give them their favorite variety or choose a new one for them to try. Then, dress up the bottle with a ribbon and a nice gift tag with a little calligraphy to make it look extra special. 

Still need a couple of ideas for Thank you gifts? 

A calligraphy set in a nice box for the artist …

or a small box of good chocolates for the sweet tooth.

If you come to my house you can bring me good dark chocolate salted caramels. I’ll cook for you all weekend for a few of those (but it has to be good chocolate and homemade caramel for this salted caramel snob. Try these if you want some of the best.). 

Whatever you decide to give, the most important part is the continued relationship. The gift is only one piece to help that person feel cared for and appreciated.

Have fun with your giving and treasure your relationships.