Thanksgiving has come and gone, which only means two things: holiday parties and New Year’s Eve parties! That’s right, with the holidays just around the corner, many people have social and family obligations to attend. However, the common dilemma is frequently, “What do I bring?”

Since your party’s host and/or hostess may be slaving away in the kitchen to feed the guests, decorating the home to wow visitors, and pull out all the stops to theme the party for maximum fun, it’s a common courtesy to not come empty-handed.

We compiled a list of five locally sourced items to grab and bring to your next holiday party. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the most highly praised on that incredible night to come!

Gourmet Oils & Vinegars from InfuseMe

Nothing jumpstarts a home-cooked meal better than a delicious cooking oil. InfuseMe, Inc is a local gem at the PowerHouse Mall in West Lebanon, which got its start less than five years ago. The store sells fresh, quality products because the best products in the world are never as good as when they are served fresh. Some fan favorites include a wide selection of Extra Virgin Olive Oils, avocado oil, black truffle oil, Vermont maple dark balsamic vinegar, and Serrano honey vinegar.

 

Custom Decorated Items from Gardener’s Supply

If your holiday spirit is a 10 out of 10, you may want to bring a custom-decorated wreath from Gardener’s Supply Company for your host/hostess to hang and enjoy. If you know your friend already has a wreath, there are other holiday-oriented gifts for sale at the shop, located in Lebanon. Gardener's Supply is in business to spread the joys and rewards of gardening, because, as they say, “gardening nourishes the body, elevates the spirit, builds community and makes the world a better place.” So, if your host has a bit of a green thumb already, they also sell gift cards, so that they can buy something to plant in the warmer weather seasons!

 

A Winter Red or Bottle of Bubbly from Norwich Wine & Spirits

One of the most common gifts to bring to a party of any sort is a bottle of wine or champagne. Norwich Wines and Spirits has a huge selection, also stocking a diverse selection of spirits, as well as beers, which include domestics, popular and rare microbrews, and beers from around the world. If you already have something in mind for that hostess with the mostest, the staff will happily help you find anything that they do not stock routinely at your request.

 

Something Unique or Quirky From Lemon Tree Gifts

Lemon Tree Gifts has been deemed Hanover's go-to gift and home accessories shop. Located at 28 S. Main St., the shop features gifts for every season, person, and occasion! They even have special gifts for hosts and hostesses. You truly can’t go wrong here. Some examples of gifts you can buy at Lemon Tree include:

soft and cozy New Hampshire-made throws, decorative pillows, scented candles, holiday decorations, and local and regional artisan items.

For the Sweet-toothed Host: My Brigadeiro

If you know your friend loves a delectable, sugary, sweet treat, My Brigadeiro is the perfect spot to pick up a box of chocolaty goodness. The shop makes the finest handcrafted chocolates around, specializing in handcrafted, chocolate truffle balls that consist primarily of local ingredients from Vermont and New Hampshire farms. Each order is tailored to your specific preferences and needs, so make sure you let them know exactly what your hostess likes!