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I’ve spent the majority of my working life in the 24/7 live television business (first in news, and now on QVC), which means that I’m far away from family on major holidays. This has put me in the uniquely wonderful position of being a holiday guest (read "mainstay") for some very special friends. For the past couple of years, I’ve had the privilege of spending Thanksgiving with my friend and colleague Courtney Cason, her family, and Lisa Robertson. 

First of all, and you know this, she is a delight And she’s a terrific cook (she’s experimental, daring, and traditional all at once), and she has one heck of a fun, easy to laugh, family. She makes it oh-so-easy to be a guest ---I feel comfortable arriving in some casually festive duds with a bottle of wine in hand. I always feel that my job as a guest is to help whenever, and wherever possible, and get out of the way when necessary (like when the turkey is coming out of the oven!).

But if you do want to bring something a little special here are a few ideas: 

1. Bring a beautifully scented candle to your hostess, just make sure it's a neutral smell. I think things like cinnamon, vanilla, spice, or other seasonal scents are good. 

2. Bring something that is useful for the occasion and will help her out. If you are bringing food, bring a platter or bowl to serve it in. With the low prices of brands like Temp-tations and Lock & Lock, you can leave the vessel with her as a gift! Same goes for the bags you carry stuff in: don't bring a bunch of plastic or paper bags, which just adds to the trash that she will already have to clean up. Bring a beautiful tote bag or insulated bag and let her keep it.

3. At holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, you can never have too much food. But, at the same time, your host may have worked very hard on a particular menu, so you don't want to mess that up. Bring something for dessert, or better yet, something for the next morning like a coffee cake or croissants.   

4. Flowers are great, but they don't last. Bring a (high quality!) faux flower arrangement and she'll be able to enjoy it forever! Plus, it's good for the hostess with pets, and they won't get into the flowers! 

5. Ornaments are always a great gift, especially at Thanksgiving because the timing is perfect. She will have something new and beautiful to put on her tree right after the holiday is over. 

6. Wine, wine, wine. I repeat, wine is always good. 

Truly, the time around a holiday table with family and/or friends is really about fellowship, laughter, and gratitude--- for good health, nourishing food, and people who care. Cheers to you this holiday season, and whether you’re spending it with family or friends, count yourself lucky to be surrounded by love and affection.

-Rachel