PHOTOS

: Need a thoughtful gift for the hostess (or host) of an upcoming holiday party? See our list of seven gifts that allow you to show a personal touch, without getting too personal.—Elayne Fluker

: <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/mini-croissants/" target=_blank>Williams-Sonoma Mini Croissants,</a> $39.95 for set of 24 Consider them a guilty pleasure—for you and for the lucky person on your gift list who receives them. Yes, they are mini versions of the favorites that Oprah once featured on her show, yes, they are bready and buttery, and YES they will love them.

: <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/wine-bottle-accessories/?pkey=cgifts-for-host" target=_blank>Pottery Barn Wine Bottle Accessories,</a> $8 each A great bottle of wine is one thing. A great bottle of wine wrapped in its own fur stole and jeweled broach (or, for the kitschy, a Santa hat and scarf) is on a totally different level.

: <a href="http://shop.nestfragrances.com/gift-sets/45-holiday-6-pack-votive-set.html" target=_blank>NEST 6-pack Votive Set,</a> $32 These votive candles (in gift-ready box) from <a href="http://shop.nestfragrances.com/" target=_blank>NEST</a> are a "light" touch and the perfect thank-you gift. A blend of pomegranate, Mandarin orange, pine, cloves and cinnamon with a hint of vanilla and amber.

: <a href="http://www.overstock.com/Bedding-Bath/Himalayan-Luxury-Cashmere-Windowpane-Throw/2089471/product.html" target=_Blank>Himalayan cashmere throw</a>, $110 Everyone enjoys a little luxe—and this cashmere throw with windowpane design makes it a suiting gift for her or him. Cozy and classic.

: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Commander-Chic-Every-Womans-Managing/dp/1439196729/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1323313813&sr=1-1" target=_blank">Commander in Chic book by Mikki Taylor,</a> $17.45 Looking for a chic gift for a fashionista in your life? Pick up this gorgeous style guide from former Essence Beauty and Cover Director <a href="http://www.blackenterprise.com/2011/11/29/mikki-taylor-expands-beauty-brand-with-style-book-inspired-by-michelle-obama/">Mikki Taylor</a>. Filled with stunning pictures of first lady Michelle Obama and tips on how to make the look your own.

: <a href="http://www.ralphlauren.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12123791&cp=1760785.12316876&SMR=1&ab=ln_home_features_homefortheholidays&pg=2&parentPage=family" target=_blank>Ralph Lauren Bentham Plaid Bar Set,</a> $150 For the distinguished gentleman, <a href="http://www.ralphlauren.com/home/index.jsp?ab=global_logo" target=_blank>Ralph Lauren</a>'s well crafted stainless steel bar set covered with plaid-print leather handles. Pop bottles with style.

: <a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306418054&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446438379&R=426244745956&P_name=MacKenzie-Childs&N=4294912082+306418054&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395222441&bmUID=jgta3IA" target=_blank>MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Dog Ornament,</a> $68 For the pet lover, this keepsake glass ornament shaped as a dog bone is a unique and thoughtful gift.