August 10, 2007

A Host of Trouble

Hostess Gift Roundup

Okay, here’s the sitch: You are invited to a second-chance dinner at your S.O.’s swanky parents’ house in the Park Cities.

But your host and hostess gifts historically are more of the Twinkie than the with-the-mostest variety. (Shall we remind you of the infamous armadillo candle?)

Herewith, a few ideas to help you make a good second impression.

No one wants to see your hang-ups, thank you. Instead, show them a Frazier & Wing mobile. Each enormous piece — which can measure up to 72 inches — is made from individual magazine pages crafted into shapes like circles, ovals, and flowers.

It’s not always what’s on the inside that counts. To wit: BloemBox Originals (Paper & Chocolate, 5460 West Lovers Lane; 214-357-2737) contain biodegradable tissue paper seed ribbon and instructions for growing the flower (like a carnation, pansy, or zinnia) on top.

Show off your compassionate side with a tee or hoodie from Happy First. Started by a cancer survivor in Tulsa, Oklahoma, 10 percent of sales from the all-cotton collection goes to leukemia and lymphoma research.

Cleanliness may be next to you-know-what, and a few soap leaves will land you in the coveted seat — right next to your future mother-in-law. Handmade from soap resin with a secret Thai formula, each is poured over a mango tree leaf frame to dry.