OT: Need gift for CEO and his wife

[punkin712]

I like the idea of bringing chocolate, but Godiva seems to have lost its luster in the last few years. I know it's expensive, but since they have stores in virtually every mall now, it has gotten a little run-of-the-mill. Do you have a local gourmet shop where you could find some more obscure (but yummy) chocolates?

Do you know anything about your CEO's personal life? Like, where he went to school, if he has a dog, or something like that? DH's former boss had two dogs that he doted on. He kept their pictures on his desk and talked about them fairly frequently in the office. We went to a party for him and I brought him a tin of homemade dog biscuits and I thought the boss was going to kiss me! He was so thrilled that somebody showed an interest in somthing that he was interested in.

 

[my3kids]

I would not take food to go with the event. The wife already has everything planned out.

I would take a bouquet of fresh flowers for the wife. She can put them anywhere. They are not meant to be the centerpiece.

 

[StitchandPooh'sMom]

I would only bring flowers if you know no one in their house is allergic. My husband is allergic to flowers. When we have parties, I feel obligated to display the flowers during the party even though my DH is allergic, but I try to put them out of the way so he won't suffer too much! He is also allergic to poinsettias, and it is hard to have a Christmas party without someone bringing a poinsettia! All flowers are given or thrown away as soon as everyone leaves.

I would bring either a food gift that is not meant to be served during the party (like chocolates or a packaged gourmet item), or a related non-food gift (like the wine charms a PP mentioned). If you have time to order, you can order from Harry and David or from Lake Champlain Chocolates (A Vermont company).

 

[2poohbears]

I would not bring flowers - for they could distract the hostess from her other, planned preparations - but rather would send them the day after.

Cut flowers (not an arrangement) with a gracious note thanking your hosts for their hospitality is a gesture worthy of kings and appropriate for all. A local florist will be able to include your handwritten letter (that is, not one of those little cards they fill out for you) in a box of flowers. It is possible to send a nice number of stems in a box - avoid roses - for not nearly as much as you might think.

Trust me...do this and you will be remembered.

I completely agree with this. Most florists can whip up a really nice arrangement of flowers with a plant as well, which can be more "gender neutral". Definitely include your own thank you note/card instead of the little ones they fill out for you...more personal.