Hosting a party is a fun process in many ways, but it can also be a LOT of work! That’s why it’s a great idea bring your host or hostess a small token of appreciation for all of the effort they’ve put into the event in order to make sure you have a good time.

For casual get-togethers, hostess gifts aren’t typically expected, but for more formal events such as dinner parties, engagement parties, holiday parties, and so on, it’s always a good idea to show up with a little something in hand. More often than not, this “little something” arrives in the form of a bottle of wine or liquor, so why not think outside the box at the next soirée you attend and say thanks with something more unexpected…and more colorful! It is summer, after all!  Here are a few fun ideas for saying thanks in style to your summer party hostesses:

• Fill Me Up Vases by Jill-able
Okay, how cool are these?!  Vases that expand when you need them and fold flat when you don’t. Genius! Even better, check out all of the fabulous vase patterns that are available. ($8 each at Jillable.com)

• Olive Oil Dipping Dish
Dipping dish or work of art? I think the correct answer is “both”! ($23 at Violet.com)

• Libertini Martini Glass
At only $2.50 a pop, these sleek cocktail glasses are a steal! Pick up a set of 4-6 for your hostess, and throw in some patterned paper cocktail napkins or orange rimming sugar to round out the gift. ($2.50 each at cb2)

• Salad Servers
French Bull's ultra-popular melamine Salad Servers are a fabulous item to stock up on for times when you need a hostess gift in a pinch. ($15/set at Give Simple)

• Orange/Lemon Extra Virgin Olive Oils
These unique olive oils are infused with organic citrus fruits for fresh, intense flavors. Each bottle contains a full pound of whole fruits that have been crushed up with California mission olives, and the ultra-contemporary orange and yellow packaging is perfect for summer gifting! ($9.95 each at Crate&Barrel)

• Rainbow Round Platter
The vibrant patterns and colors in this tray are constructed of sturdy melamine, which won’t shatter, fade, discolor or chip… a great gift idea for the hostess that loves to entertain outdoors! ($19 at Loft Party)

• 101 Sangrias and Pitcher Drinks
Great gift idea for the hostess that loves to cater to a crowd! ($16.95 at Crate and Barrel)

• Moc Croc Mini Cocktail Shaker
These cute mini shakers feature faux crocodile leather and chic colors to help your hostess shake things up in style! ($26.95 at Wrapables)

• Daisy Cups – Set of 2
Sandra Isaksson’s Daisy Cups are just darling! The sweet and simple daisy design gives this duo a contemporary, yet feminine feel. ($32/set at Three Potato Four)

What kinds of things to you like to give as hostess gifts? Do you usually arrive with the tried-and-true bottle of wine, or is there an alternative option you turn to instead?