When you are a guest for a dinner party or open house in the U.S. it is customary to bring a gift to show your appreciation for the invitation. The question is, what do you give?

Plants and flowers can be tricky. One issue is finding a place to display them without infringing on carefully crafted decorations. The other is that the host may be allergic to the smell.

Food items are difficult unless you know of a favorite candy or food. It is the thought that really counts but we also want our gift to be enjoyed. Wine can be nice especially if they are wine enthusiasts and you can select a bottle they may find interesting. You can’t fail with a current picture book. Stay away from anything political.

What happens if the invitation says no gifts? Definitely honor it. You can always send a gift later. Thank you notes never go out of style. So, within a week, send a handwritten note of appreciation containing a few words that capture the memory of the occasion.

Do these things you will be a a guest to remember.