It's never inappropriate to bring a hostess gift, however it is often inappropriate not to... If someone has been thoughtful enough to invite you to an event that they're hosting, you should respond via RSVP whether you intend to attend or not and plan to bring a small but nice gift that's inline with the event and the relationship. The old standby of a bottle of wine is always a good idea, except where alcohol isn't appreciated. Otherwise a good box of chocolates (NOT the leftover Valentine's Day chocolates from the drug store...) is usually appreciated by most. As with the wine however, consider whether the recipient may be on a diet or have restrictions to sugar intake. It can be tough in this politically correct age, but don't go beyond worrying about the obvious in this regard. You should be able to expect the recipient to be gracious and appreciative for any gift received, unless it's just blatantly wrong.
No. Since it is pot luck you bring a dish to add to the pot luck.
A bottle of wine, a desert item , or flowers or a small plant are always appropriate .
If the luncheon is a special event such as a luncheon before a wedding then yes, bring a gift. If it is just an informal luncheon with either friends (no special reason) or business you do not need to bring a gift.
A hostess gift is a gift given to your host or hostess as a sort of 'pre-thank you' for having you. A bottle of wine, flowers or maybe even gourmet coffee are common hostess gifts. A small hostess gift is generally considered appropriate for dinners and parties, while guests who are staying for several days may get something larger.
* Ghirardelli chocolates * Flowers * Jewelry such as a small pendant that goes around the neck
Not unless it is a birthday or other celebration. If in doubt, check with the hostess.
The reason why is that it shows very much respect to the elders in the house.
Traditionally, the gift for 15 years is crystal, but watches are the modern version.
If it's a special occasion such as a birthday; special anniversary; wedding shower or baby shower then yes, you should take a gift. If it's just a get together with friends for dessert then no, it's not necessary to bring a gift unless you want to bring a bottle of wine or flowers for the hostess if you know them well, but not mandatory.
No, unless you are their closest friends.
You may certainly bring a gift to a business open house if you want to. Perhaps the new owner is a personal friend. That is absolutely appropriate to do.
A hostess gift doesn'tt have to be expensive, but it should be thoughtful. Consider the types of activities your hosts enjoy, and gift accordingly. As a general rule, your budget should be around $15 to $30, depending upon the formality of the occasion. An important rule to remember is that you should never bring anything that makes more work for your hosts. The best example is that of flowers: If you bring a cello-wrapped bouquet, your hostess must stop what she is doing, find a vase, trim the ends from the flowers and greenery, arrange the bouquet, and find a place for it. If youre giving flowers, be sure to bring a bouquet that is already arranged in a vase.