‘Anything But Wine’ Hostess Gift Idea Part 2 // A Holiday Cocktail Book + Jigger
Posted on December 11, 2025
I’m back with another hostess gift idea for the season! When it comes to hostess gifts during the holiday season, it’s so easy to default to a bottle of wine. And while there’s nothing wrong with showing up with a little bubbly, I’ve been loving the idea of bringing something a bit more intentional—a gift that feels thoughtful, pretty, and totally practical. Here is ‘Anything But Wine’ Hostess Gift Idea Part 2 // A Holiday Cocktail Book + Jigger
It’s festive without being fussy, elevated without being expensive, and guaranteed to get a “Wait—this is so cute!” the moment you hand it over.
In this edition of my Anything But Wine hostess gift series, we’re skipping the predictable and gifting something stylish, useful, and perfect for anyone who loves to entertain [or just appreciates a beautifully curated bar cart].
‘Anything But Wine’ Hostess Gift Idea Part 2 // A Holiday Cocktail Book + Jigger
Why This Gift Works Every Time
1 // It’s something they’ll actually use
A great cocktail recipe book is both fun to flip through and functional to have on hand—especially this time of year when gatherings, game nights, and cozy at-home nights are in full swing. Pair it with a polished gold jigger, and suddenly your gift feels like a curated mixology moment.
2 // It feels intentional but not over-the-top
This duo shows you thought about the host’s interests and picked something they can enjoy long after the party’s over. And you can keep it simple or dress it up with ribbon, a tag, or a small add-on.
3 // It elevates any bar cart or kitchen shelf
A pretty recipe book is basically décor that happens to be useful. Add in a gold & silver jigger and the whole thing feels chic, polished, and totally gift-worthy.
What’s Inside the Gift
The Cocktail Recipe Book
Choose one with beautiful photos, creative but approachable recipes, and a neutral or festive spine that looks great displayed. I love ones that feel like coffee table books but are still practical for mixing up drinks on a Friday night.
The Gold & Silver Cocktail Jigger
The secret to making this gift feel elevated is the jigger. A sleek, modern gold one instantly adds that extra level of polish. It’s functional, pretty, and makes the gift feel like a complete set—almost like a mini bar cart moment wrapped with a bow.
FESTIVE DISH TOWEL
It’s pretty and practical and there are so many cute ones to choose from! Plus, it makes a great base for stacking your gifts on!
How to Assemble the Gift (The Easy but Elevated Way)
Stack the book on top of a festive dish towel
Add a piece of velvet ribbon around the book & towel, then tie it around the jigger
Slip a gift tag on the ribbon and tie it into a bow
Tuck in a piece of decorative holly or greens
Optional extras:
Mini bottle of simple syrup
Dried orange slices
Festive cocktail picks
Everything comes together in less than five minutes, but looks like you spent the afternoon curating it.
When to Gift It
This hostess gift idea works for:
Holiday dinner parties
Book club hosts
New Year’s Eve gatherings
Teacher or staff parties
Neighbor get-togethers
Family celebrations
Anyone who “has everything”
It’s versatile, gender-neutral, and always a hit.
Shop the Post
Cocktail Recipe Book Dish Towel Gold Jigger Velvet ribbon Gift tags
If you’re looking for a hostess gift that stands out this holiday season, this cocktail book + jigger combo is the perfect mix of stylish and practical. Save this idea for later, pin it, or shop everything below to create a little curated moment for your next holiday hostess!
