Well, food that can easily be incorporated into any menu, or frozen for later use, is always a good idea. Artisanal breads, certain desserts, etc.

Personally, I have had a crush on these slate cheese boards with pencils. (see link). I like to give them with a few assorted cheeses. But they certainly arent for everyone!

Here is a link that might be useful: the white

I love receiving fancy hand soap, but I know so many people (maybe not older ones tho') are using liquid soap these days, maybe it's not for everyone. I love putting out new soap when I have guests, so I appreciate small, pretty bars that aren't TOO fragrant, but smell nice.

I like to take potted orchids as hostess gifts. They don't require any immediate attention like cut flowers do and they are basically non-allergenic.

I usually bake something or bring wine, but recently we were invited to dinner and I had no time to bake. I brought a basketful of fresh veggies from our garden. It was a big hit.

For the friend for dinner, offer to bring a homemade dessert? Wine is always a good option for a dinner party.

For the reunion, I agree with Fun. A flowering plant will last longer than cut flowers. Even if the person is not into plants, they will enjoy this one for as long as it lasts.

Small food basket for both or wine for both. You can't go wrong with consumables.

Well for the first I am already bringing dessert....but last time we got together (with a couple of other gals) they all brought a hostess gift too...

Soaps sound nice and the potted orchids are readily available so that's a nice option too.

That slate board, you're right...not for everybody....