North Bay Woman

entertain? If the answer is "traditional," she says she recommends choosing "anything monogrammed" such as linen guest towels ($18) or paper cocktail napkins, or stationery that can be printed in-store. Those with traditional homes also tend to appreciate tapered candles or scented diffusers or candles, such as a Lafco candle with a champagne fragrance ($48 for the small size; $68 for the large size) that she sells. If the host's home is modern, opt for a sterling silver frame (a 5- by 7-inch frame starts at $45) or any of the store's ceramic or porcelain vases (starting at $85). Not sure whether the home is traditional or modern? A cheese knife set or drink coasters are great choices. Folio, 483 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur, 415-927- 1096, folioinvites.com Soaps are a classic hostess gift and Novato's Caryl B soap gift set are well made and a treat for any hostess. The small-batch handcrafted soaps are formulated to be non-irritating and moisturizing. Try its gardenia-scented gift set that includes a cube of soap, fast- absorbing hand cream, vegan lip balm and a natural fi ber washcloth ($48). Purchase online at carylb.com When asked for her best hostess gift tips, Lorraine Bossi points to the big sellers from small companies in her shop, Fig Garden. They include Harvey & Strait cocktail napkins ($25), handmade linen Moontea Artwork dish towels ($16), and coveted hand-poured Madison Louis Marie candles ($37) that she promises smell exquisite. Fig Garden, 421 San Anselmo Ave., San Anselmo, 415-457-9443, fi ggardenshop.com Ruth Livingston, designer and owner Ruth Livingston Studio, likes the idea of candles, too. "Wine and fl owers are so often the go-to hostess gifts but I fi nd that a more unique and thoughtful selection is greatly appreciated and leaves a lasting impression," she says. She suggests a molded artichoke candle ($23), sure to be appreciated by gardeners and gourmets or a decorative bamboo- and-plaster box decorated with native California plants. The small size ($79) is a perfect fi t for cocktail napkins and can be custom-ordered. Ruth Livingston Studio, on Ark Row at 74 Main St., Tiburon, 415-435-5264, ruthlivingston.com Ray Kristof, co-owner of Terrestra, readily suggests a box of 15 guest soaps from Claus Porto of Portugal ($28.50). "It has been a Terrestra favorite for years," he says. "It smells delicious and is an elegant solution that works in any home so there's no risk of clashing with the hostess' style." He also likes the tea towels ($19.50) by Vikki Wiercinski for modern style homes. "These can really brighten up a kitchen and have been a go-to selection by customers who want something original and unique," he adds. Terrestra, 30 Miller Ave., Mill Valley, 415-384-8330, terrestra.com If it's good enough for the Britain's royal family, a scented candle ($65) in a classic clear container from Floris, the only perfumer to hold a royal warrant, is sure to be good enough for your favorite hostess. You can fi nd it at Venus and Virgo. Venus and Virgo, 7 Mariposa Ave., San Anselmo, 415-453-5200, venusandvirgo.com. The Gourmet Honey is not only a superfood but it makes a super gift, too. "Local honey varies greatly by season and year and even by hive," says Bonnie Morse of Bonnie Bee and Co. "There are so many uses for honey including with cheese pairings which can be nice to include at any holiday gathering. Plus, it supports efforts to promote and protect our local pollinators." Pick up a jar at select stores including Fairfax Backyard Farmer where 3-ounce jars cost $3.95, 8 ounces sell for $11.95 and 16 ounces sell for $17.95. The Fairfax Backyard Farmer, 135 Bolinas Road, Fairfax, 415-342-5092, fairfaxbackyardfarmer.com She suggests a molded artichoke candle ($23), sure to be appreciated by gardeners Artichoke candle from Ruth Livingston Studio; Lafco candle from Folio in Larkspur; Vikki Wiercinski tea towels from Terrestra; Caryl B soap gift set; Flour Craft Bakery's 16-piece cookie assortment. – Photos courtesy of Ronnie's Awesome List, Folio, Terrestra, Hal Brandes, Williams-Sonoma F A L L 2 0 1 9 | NORTH BAY WOMAN 21

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