Gift Guide: Entertainer, foodie and new homeowner

We know  "tis better to give than to receive," but what happens when you’re not sure what to give?
 
Do you go for the thoughtful homemade gift, the one-of-a-kind experience or the “I stalked your Amazon wishlist" type of gift? Or maybe you’re looking for something a little more chic; something functional that fits with the unique personality of the giftee?
 
If you’re looking for that stylish gift that’ll be put to good use, you’re in luck.
 
In our holiday Gift Guide series, we’re sharing gift ideas and inspiration for almost everyone on your list — from the foodie and the crafter to the college student and the outdoorsman.
 
First up, we’re focusing on the socialites on your list, whether they are expert party-throwers (and goers) or novices breaking in a new home.
 
Gifts for the Entertainer
For the friend who always hosts game night or the sibling who loves lavish dinner parties, give one of these must-have entertaining pieces, perfect for displaying hors d’oeuvres and hiding extra dinnerware.

• Cubby storage cabinet — For the true party guy or gal, give a cubby storage cabinet for corralling all the bar mixins’ and fixins’. A cabinet with storage shelves on the interior of the doors easily houses tall bottles or a cocktail shaker. The best part is it looks great, even when not in use.
• Tray table — It’s a tray, and then it’s a table. The possibilities are endless. A tray table with a removable tray is a perfect gift for those who entertain guests often. Select one that folds up for compact storage, and you’ve got yourself a winner.
• Sideboard — It’s every entertainer’s essential furniture piece. Loaded with appetizers, a sideboard will keep guests out of the kitchen as the chef finish creating the main course. Look for a sideboard with cabinet doors and adjustable shelves for discreetly storing entertaining essentials.

 
Gifts for the Foodie
Give your favorite foodie a place to prep, stow supplies, host spectators and charge up so they’re ready to document any decadent creations in their food blog. Focus on functional furniture that provides counter space and kitchen storage.

• Kitchen island — Any foodie knows there’s no such thing as too much counter space. A kitchen island on wheels can move around the kitchen for food prep and store extra pots, pans and cookbooks. It’s the best of both worlds.
• Counter-height table and chairs — If your foodie friend enjoys inviting guests to watch (or help) in the kitchen, counter-height tables and chairs offer more seating for guests. Select a solid wood composition for a sturdy, classic look. You’ll be lucky to sit at that table!
• Gourmet stand — Another option for storage and counter space is a gourmet stand with crisscross storage. Pick one with a durable top that resists heat, stains and scratches. These features are ideal when using the stand as a buffet or as another kitchen prep station.

Gifts for the New Homeowner
Don’t limit housewarming gifts to the kitchen or the bar for the new homeowner. Help furnish any (or every) room of the house with stylish essentials.

• Multi-purpose stand — With the challenge of deciding where all the furniture fits in a new home, a multi-purpose stand is best because it’ll look great anywhere — from the bathroom to the dining room. Give this gift with a bottle of wine to be stored in the crisscross rack storage.
• Sofa table — It can be a catch-all in the entryway or a sleek focal point in the living room. A sofa table doesn’t have to be paired with a sofa!
• Bookcase — Help out with functional, stylish storage for the new homeowner with a ladder bookcase. A 3-shelf bookcase is perfect in the office for books or in the living room to display family photos. 

 
Not sure if these gifts are the right fit for anyone on your list? Check out our Pinterest boards for more gift-giving ideas, and stay tuned as we share gifts for college students and city dwellers next month!