Responding to the Dinner Dilemma: “What Can I Bring”?

Ever had an earful of the question, “What can I bring?” Trust me; I’m right there with you. And yes, for the longest time, my reply was a hearty, “Nothing!” I was that gal, the go-getter hostess who wanted to juggle everything, proving to the world and myself that I didn’t need a helping hand.

Affiliate disclosure: Sweet Humble Home is a participant in Amazon's affiliate program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is no extra cost to readers.

Soon after that I grew up a little bit and realized that hosting isn’t only about you. You are simply the person who facilitates the gathering. You are the person people rely on to make the party shine, but the evening is really about everyone that is attending. Let them bring something.

If you’re the one attending the dinner and you’re looking for something to bring, a simple, but elegant way to be prepared is by having a couple of elegant gifts on-hand for when you are invited somewhere.

A Thoughtful Hostess Gift

Linen cocktail napkins are one of the simplest gifts a host will use again and again. While wine and flowers are always appreciated, a small set of embroidered linen napkins becomes part of the entertaining drawer and ready for cocktail hour, casual gatherings, or an evening with friends.

A classic monogram makes them feel personal without being overly formal, and they are something a host can continue to enjoy long after the dinner ends.

You can explore our Vintage Vine Monogram Linen Cocktail Napkins here.

Most guests really do want to bring something when invited to share a meal or a special moment. So instead of answering with “No worries, I’ve got this” and leaving potential guests to their endless guessing, I changed my answering strategy. Here’s a gentle nudge on what you can suggest every well-meaning guest bring over for dinner.

Breaking Down the ‘Bringables’

There’s always something to contribute, and some guests might decide to skip the question and surprise you with a thank-you gift. Have you ever stopped to think about why that is? I’ll clue you in: First, they get to share a little bit of who they are with you and others. Sharing is a big deal for some folks. Could be they’ve crafted a precious little thing, or conjured up an edible magic potion from their weekend garden harvest.

If their upbringing was anything like mine, arriving at a gathering without a shareable in hand is akin to accidentally wearing two different socks. So never leave them hanging when the question comes. Guide them, empathetically.

Dinner Contribution Ideas to Spark Some Inspiration:

• “Please, share your family’s traditional dessert. I am sure everyone would really appreciate that.”
• “I enjoyed the cocktail you made at your last gathering. Would it be possible to bring the ingredients to make that? It really was such a hit.”
• “I’d be so thankful to add an appetizer to the evening if you wouldn’t mind bringing one along.”
• “Do you have a playlist we can use?”
• “Could I trouble you for a bottle of your favorite white wine?”
• “What about a bottle of that red you can’t stop raving about?”
• “I’ve been dying to showcase your stunning serving dish at a gathering. May I borrow it, please?”
• “Those conversation starter cards you have? Absolutely bring them along! They’ll be great to fill in any lull moments.”

At times, the thought of guests bringing various contributions can be a more-than-welcome stress party. And guess what? If they bring something anyway, just accept it gracefully, express your gratitude, and move on.

Embracing the Joy of Hosting

Who said entertaining had to be challenging? Kick back, breathe, and enjoy the party. We’re all about easy-breezy entertaining here, remember? Check out my guide, ‘5 Steps for Easy Entertaining’ for some handy shortcuts to simplify your hosting experience.