很多同学会接到去老外家一起享用晚餐的邀请吧，但是第一个问题就是，带什么礼物去比较好呢？不想太普通，又怕不保险，想来想去，不能周全。这篇文章将告诉大家做客时如何挑选合适的礼物。

Host or hostess gifts are a way to thank the host(ess) for their effort (and money) in hosting a party or a dinner. A good rule of thumb is to match your gifts "effort" to the effort they put into their party. Usually if you're bringing a dish you should not be supplying a host(ess) gift although gifts are always appreciated.

Ask yourself a few questions to get your bearings
去之前先问自己几个问题

What is the size of the party/get together. A larger party requires more work and a nicer gift would be in order... Has the host(ess) spent a lot of money or put a ton of work into it? If so maybe you should too... How well do you know the person hosting? Is their something you know they like (golf, games, wine, cooking).

Consider bringing some Alcohol
可以带点儿酒精饮料

A nice bottle of wine for a holiday party (try "Layer Cake") Or beer for a barbecue. Alcohol in any form can get expensive when buying for many people. To provide some for the masses is a gift in itself.

Bring Flowers
带花儿总是没错哒！

Flowers seem to be something people just don't use anymore. Pick up some fresh flowers (in or without a vase) and the host(ess) can put them in the middle of their table or to brighten up their room. Always an acceptable gift so long as they are tastefully chosen (don't reflect funerals such as white roses).

Help with the Entertainment
想点儿有趣的东西

Think appetizer plates, wine cork decorators, cookbooks, napkin rings, glass rings (the kind that people use to tell their drinks apart). Cocktail napkins.

Bring some nice bon-bons or chocolates.
带点儿巧克力

Or some gourmet coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate

If all else fails buy a gift certificate to a local store (like a bookstore or a coffee shop) and fold them into a handwritten thank you note.
如果其他都不合适，那也可以买一张当地商店（比如书店或是咖啡店）的礼券，折在手写的感谢卡里。