Strawberry Jalapeño Jam

Good hostess gifts are small, useful and need nothing from the host. Soap, a candle with matches, a jar of jam, a pair of glasses or a bar tool all qualify. We lean toward things the host can put away in one move, such as Mistral soap or In the Curious Kitchen's Strawberry Jalapeño Jam.

You don't need to, but bringing one is a kind gesture and is usually appreciated. Keep it small and ready to use, and don't expect the host to open or serve it that night. A candle, a bar of soap or a jar of jam does the job.

Bring something consumable that doesn't need a vase or a plan, like a Lineage candle with HomArt matches, Mistral bar soap or Kalastyle Soap Co.'s hand salve. If you do bring wine, put it in a bag. Cheers Darling's art deco wine gift bag is $6.

There is no rule we would stand behind, so spend what feels right for the host and the occasion. HomArt matches start at $4.50, and the gifts under $50 page sorts by price if you want a ceiling.

Closing gifts work best when they're local and useful. Cincinnati Map Slate Coasters or a candle are easy yeses, and neither one needs a note explaining it. Add a card and you're done.

Hostess gifts are for an evening, like a dinner, party or holiday meal, and they should need nothing from the host. Housewarming gifts are for a new home and can be bigger or more lasting, such as a pot or glassware. If you're unsure, a candle works for both.

High St. is a lifestyle store at 1401 Reading Rd in Over-the-Rhine, with candles, soap, glassware and pantry gifts on the floor. We're open every day but Tuesday, 10am to 6pm, Sunday 11am to 4pm. In-stock online orders are usually ready for pickup in about two hours.

We don't offer traditional gift wrap. Purchases go out in High St. branded tissue and premium bags with cord handles and a gold-foil logo, and we sell select wrapping paper for anyone who wants to wrap at home.