Food. Fun. Fellowship. Festive times. That’s a cool mix for a good summer gathering. School is out, so there’s the delight of a slower pace; and when the weather cooperates, we’re soaking up some vitamin D while enjoying outdoor activities.
Hosting a gathering during this time of year, whether it’s a playdate, brunch, or girls’ night, is like gifting guests a taste of summer itself. I imagine sprinklers outside for the kids, in-season fruits and other treats on the table, and a chill vibe that makes the summer heat bearable.
I know we’re not all jumping at the chance to host (I would need a week to recover…lol!). However, I admire those who always rise to the occasion and love curating fun, relaxing times for friends and family.
Several of my friends are queens of summer gatherings, and I know you have your crew too. Orchestrating these events seems effortless for them. They’re also amazing at keeping the mood and flow in good order.
I don’t want to arrive at these summer gatherings empty-handed, and expressing my gratitude for the invitation and preparation is a warm gesture I always want to extend. If you’re reading this post, then I know you feel the same way too.
I’ve put together a ‘Slice Of Summer’ themed gift idea that I think you’ll enjoy gifting to the person you would crown queen of summer gatherings. It’s a nice way to thank her for sharing her gift of hospitality with you!
Hostess Gift Idea
Theme, Color Inspiration, and Budget
From Playdates To Girls’ Night—A Gift Idea For The Queen Of Summer Gatherings

The budget for this gifting bundle is approximately $50. BTS (BTS = before taxes and/or shipping)
For this Slice Of Summer hostess gift theme, fill a basket, gift box, or bag with the items listed below. (p.s. I’ve also added a one-sheet card with a summary of this gift theme that you can download and save—a little reminder card just for you!)
SLICE OF SUMMER
Hostess Gift 1: Citrus Wedge Ice Trays
Help your queen of summer gatherings add a slice of summer to every glass with ice cubes shaped like lemon, lime, or orange wedges. She’ll be thrilled to add a splash of fun to her drinks or use them for her next event.
Linked Here For You—Set Of 2 Citrus Wedge Ice Trays: Orange and Blush OR Green and Yellow
SLICE OF SUMMER
Hostess Gift 2: Citrus Bamboo Picks
Mini skewers make great accessories for appetizers, cocktails, and mocktails. And these picks with lemon, lime, and orange decorative discs are right on theme for this festive summer hostess gift. (Package them in a linen pouch before adding to the other gift items.)
Linked Here For You: Citrus Bamboo Picks
SLICE OF SUMMER
Hostess Gift 3: Lemon Blossoms Reusable Market Bag
Make grocery shopping more cheerful for your queen of summer gatherings with a cute shopping tote. This eco-friendly, washable shopping bag in a lemon blossoms pattern folds into a clippable zipper pouch, perfect for gifting.
Linked Here For You: Lemon Blossoms Shopping Bag
SLICE OF SUMMER
Hostess Gift 4: Italian Lemon Spritz Mixer
This Slice Of Summer hostess gift idea would not be complete without a nod to the drink of summer—lemonade! I’m giving this non-alcoholic spritz mixer a try. It’s crafted with all-natural ingredients, and the packaging is so cute. Citrus, summer fun!
Linked Here For You: Italian Lemon & Rose Spritz Mixer
SLICE OF SUMMER
Hostess Gift 5: Something Handwritten For A Personal Touch
A handwritten note adds to the warmth of this gesture and is a nice way to honor the time and care the hostess gave in opening her home to guests.
For a Playdate: Gift a little free time to the hostess. Along with a thank you note, write instructions for a fun activity for her kids to enjoy. Feeling creative? Design a summer-themed word search on a cute lemon-shaped card.
For Other Summer Gatherings: I suggest a handwritten thank you note with a list of upcoming events in her area for some fun summer outings or a favorite recipe.