If you’re planning to be a guest rather than a host for Thanksgiving dinner this year, you don’t want to arrive empty handed. For those who are still searching for the perfect hostess gift, local tastemakers come to the rescue with presents that are stylish and thoughtful.

Candles in seasonal fragrances are among the popular hostess gifts. “Our Rosy Rings Spicy Apple Botanical candle has the fragrance of an apple pie cooling on a windowsill,” said Ann O'Shields of The Nest Egg in Fairfax. “A 200 hour burn time and made with apple slices, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, rosehips, essential and high quality fragrance oils,” said O'Shields. “Customers await our first shipment every fall.”

“Fragrances like pumpkin or cinnamon are popular this time of year and can carry through the holiday season,” said Courtney Thomas of the Picket Fence in Burke.

Cocktail napkins are something that every host can use, said Thomas.

“A couple packs in a decorative holder make a great and useful gift,” she said. “Many people choose one fall and one holiday design so they can be used throughout the holidays.”

Terri Downs, owner of JT Interiors in Potomac, Md., says she has an array of items for the hostess including, “candles and potpourri.”

Food items always make a nice gift. “Put together a little goodie bag of snack items — peanuts, cheese biscuits or candies for the hostess to enjoy after all the festivities are over,” said Thomas.

A marble-and-wood, monogrammed cheese board and spreader is a thoughtful and personal idea, said O'Shields.

“These fabulous boards come in handy for everyone who entertains,” she said. “They are great for serving cheese, fruit and more. The monogram makes it a personal gift and the natural wood and marble easily fit into all décor styles. For a larger gift you could include a package of cocktail napkins, wine, cheese and crackers for an instant appetizer.