Tis the Season

By Cynthia Hochswender

Summer is the time of picnics, barbecues, weekend visits—and, therefore, it is the season of host-and-hostess gifts. Wine and spirits are no longer the easy and obvious choice; a little creativity is called for. Generally, there are two ways to go: Either you give everyone you visit the same gift, and take a chance on becoming known as someone who always and only brings tea. Or you find a nearby shop with a creative buyer, who will continually supply you with ideas that will surprise and delight every host/hostess. Such a shop is Honeychurch Home in Salisbury and such a buyer is owner Carolyn Piccirelli.

Honeychurch is a small shop—but everything on display is something that you need or want. There are room scents, serving dishes, interesting books, handwoven and useful textiles in perfect seasonal color combinations. And there is always a selection of large, fresh, and showy flowers, usually exotic ones that you can feel confident your host/hostess doesn’t have already in their garden.And there are odd choices: Perhaps a wooden spurtle is just right for a host who loves New England history; perhaps a wood serving tray shaped like an ancient pizza paddle is the perfect item for a hostess who serves gorgeous cheese assortments.

Get a reputation for bringing gifts from Honeychurch; and your invitations will increase.—honeychurchhome.com