Easter is a special time of year when families and friends come together to celebrate. If you’ve been invited to an Easter celebration as a guest, you may be wondering what to bring. The good news is that Easter gifts don’t have to be complicated or expensive. Some small gifts and treats are perfect for showing your appreciation to the host. Here are some ideal Easter gift ideas for guests.
Food Gifts
One of the most appreciated gifts to bring to an Easter gathering is food. With all the preparations the host has to do, providing an item for the meal or dessert is always thoughtful. Here are some food gift ideas for Easter:
- Deviled eggs – Decorated deviled eggs are an Easter classic. Make a batch with unique fillings like avocado, bacon, or creamy dill.
- Brunch casserole – A breakfast casserole, overnight French toast, or stratta bake is easy for the host to pop in the oven.
- Spring salad – A light salad featuring seasonal vegetables like asparagus, peas, and radishes complements the ham or lamb.
- Artisan bread – A loaf of fresh baked bread is always welcome. Try braided breads or savory cheese bread.
- Dessert – Bring molded Jell-O, chocolate mousse shots, lemon bars, or an Easter pie like pecan or coconut cream.
- Wine or champagne – A bottle of wine or champagne adds a festive touch to Easter brunch or dinner.
If you decide to bring a food gift, be sure to coordinate with the host. You’ll want to ask about any allergies and find out what they are planning for the menu. Your gift should complement the main dishes rather than compete. And don’t forget serving utensils if needed.
Non-Food Gifts
While food gifts are common for Easter, you can also give non-edible items. Here are some ideas of non-food Easter gifts to bring as a guest:
- Flowers – A spring bouquet or potted plant, like tulips, hydrangeas, lilies, or daffodils brightens up the host’s home.
- Easter decor – Help decorate with bunny figurines, wreaths, table runners, or other Easter decorations.
- Baskets – Small Easter baskets can be filled with goodies like candies, temporary tattoos, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, or other fun finds.
- Games and activities – Provide entertainment with Easter-themed games like egg hunts, Bingo, pin the tail on the bunny, or craft kits.
- Candles – Scented candles or wax melts in spring scents help set a festive mood.
- Soaps and lotions – Pretty wrapped guest soaps, hand creams, and bath bombs make nice little gifts.
If you opt for non-edible gifts, try to keep them family-friendly, seasonal, and not too personal. The idea is to enhance their Easter celebrations, not overwhelm the host.
Gifts for Kids
If children will be attending the Easter celebration, you may want to bring small gifts just for them. Kids always appreciate a little something of their own. Some fun Easter basket stuffer ideas include:
- Stickers, temporary tattoos and chalk
- Bubbles, kites, or other outdoor toys
- Coloring books, crayons, and craft kits
- Silly putty, slime, and other fidget toys
- Stuffed animals, books, or puzzles
- Glow sticks, jewelry, and hair accessories
- Candy, jelly beans, Peeps, and chocolate eggs
The dollar store is a great place to pick up little Easter trinkets, toys, and candies for kids’ baskets without spending much. Just a small token will make them smile.
Host Gifts
Along with contributions to the celebration, you may want to give a small gift as a thank-you to the Easter host themselves. Here are some ideas to show the host your appreciation:
- Flowers – A spring bouquet or blooming plant is a classic hostess gift.
- Candles – Scented candles help set their Easter decor.
- Gourmet food – Jams, sauces, baked goods, or a gift basket with treats.
- Wine – A nice bottle of wine or champagne suits Easter brunch.
- Gift card – Let them choose their own gift with a restaurant, spa, or retail gift card.
- Locally made item – Showcase artisans in your area with handmade pottery, soap, jewelry, etc.
Present their gift when you first arrive or as you are leaving. A sincere “thank you for having me” note also goes a long way.
Gift Presentation
While the gift itself is key, you also want to make sure it is nicely presented:
- Wrap food gifts or attach a bow. Containers also keep salads and dishes intact.
- Place items for kids in a colorful basket or gift bag.
- Use gift bags, tissue paper, or cellophane on non-food gifts.
- Add gift tags, ribbons, and other embellishments to up the wow factor.
- Keep host gifts separate to personally deliver.
A beautifully wrapped present shows you put thought and care into your gift. Even small items seem special when artfully presented.
When to Arrive With Gifts
Be sure to time the arrival of your Easter gifts appropriately:
- Perishable food gifts should arrive cold and as close to the event as possible.
- Non-food gifts, kids’ items, and host presents can arrive early.
- Coordinate drop-off time in advance with the host.
- Offer to help put gifts in place and assist with any last-minute set up.
- If coming from out of town, consider shipping gifts so they arrive on time.
You want your Easter contributions to arrive fresh but not so early they have to be stored or refrigerated for too long by the host.
Alternatives to Bringing Gifts
While small Easter gifts from guests are customary, they aren’t absolutely necessary, especially if you have been specifically instructed not to bring anything. If the host prefers no gifts, here are some alternatives to show your appreciation:
- Offer to help with prep, cooking, cleaning, or other Easter tasks.
- Contribute to the Easter decor -provide a centerpiece or paper goods.
- Entertain kids – come early to watch them so hosts can focus on prep.
- Share a special skill – offer a fun activity like face painting or crafts.
- Follow hosting etiquette – be polite, follow house rules, and dress appropriately.
- Send a handwritten thank you card after the event.
Pitching in, being a good guest, and sharing sincere thanks are wonderful ways to show your gratitude if gifts aren’t needed.
Most Important Tip
The single most important thing to keep in mind when bringing Easter gifts is to be thoughtful and considerate. Keep gifts simple and appropriate. Coordinate with the host. And most importantly, come with a grateful and gracious attitude. These small courtesies will ensure you’re a welcome guest.
Conclusion
Bringing a small contribution shows you care and gives a little extra joy to Easter festivities. Classic food gifts, fun items for kids, and host thank-yous are sure to be appreciated. But gifts don’t have to be expensive or over-the-top. Even simple gestures given with a warm spirit bring delight on Easter.