The rule
When you go to someone's home for a meal or a stay, bring something. It doesn't need to be grand: a good bottle, something from your garden, or a book you think they'd like. What matters is that you thought of it.
Why it matters
Someone has cleaned, cooked and opened their home to you. A small gift is how you acknowledge the work. It also gets you through the door with something to say.
How to do it well
- Don't expect your wine to be opened that evening. It's a gift for your host, not a contribution to dinner.
- Flowers are lovely, but bring them in a vase or send them the day before, so nobody has to break off to find one.
- For a longer stay, bring something more considered, or take your hosts out for a meal.