I love hospitality trays, especially when I am the guest! Does that sound selfish? I hope not because I love seeing people use their creativity to prepare for guests. I have been in homes of friends where a tray is always ready to go and so creative.
My friend Dell has a tray on every bed in her home. She has lovely antiques that she showcases and always includes magazines for her guests to read. On the day they arrive, she adds fresh flowers, a snack plate, and beautiful linens.
I was speaking in Dallas when my book, Honey, It’s all in the Shoes, was released, and in my hotel room were several hospitality trays. One of my favorites was the Texas tray, where my hostess had presented Texas items for me to take home consisting of Lone Star stationery, Texas soap trays, and wonderful leather journals.
In Natchez,Mississippi, I was treated to a lovely weekend at the tea celebrations at Monmouth Historic Inn. At the time, Lani Riches and her husband owned the inn, and she gifted me with a hospitality tray in my room that included a collection of antique handkerchiefs from the 1950s. I still have them and think of my special time there.
When I have a special guest, I might select a beautiful pen and paper to present. I want it to be something that I would love to receive. It doesn’t have to be expensive but just a token of remembrance.
What types of hospitality gifts do you give? I would love to hear your creative ideas.