When the RSVP is in and the group text is buzzing, there’s one inevitable question every guest asks: “What can I bring?” It sounds simple enough, but it can stir up a whole spiral of decisions — dips or drinks, dessert or decor, thoughtful or store-bought?
Luckily, Casey Elsass has answered that question definitively (and deliciously) in his new cookbook, What Can I Bring? Inside are 75 thoughtful, easy-to-love recipes ranging from cocktails to cookies, dips to delightful food gifts — all crafted with the goal of making you the guest everyone wants to invite back.
But let’s be honest — being a great guest isn’t just about showing up with a bowl of guacamole. According to Elsass, it’s about showing up right. And that means a little thoughtfulness, a bit of timing, and just enough flair. Here are his five golden rules to mastering the art of showing up with style.
1. Be Real With Yourself (and the Host)
Not everyone’s wired the same — and that’s okay. Are you the type who’s ready 15 minutes early, or the one still spooning dip into a Tupperware after the Uber arrives? Be honest about your habits and choose your contribution accordingly.
- Early birds? Volunteer for appetizers.
- Fashionably late types? Go for drinks or dessert.
- Told not to bring anything? Still bring a small gift — even if it’s just a candle, a bouquet, or a handwritten card.
2. Come Ready to Serve
Imagine your host juggling a dozen dishes, only to be interrupted with, “Hey, can I put this in the oven for 20 minutes?” Cue panic. Great guests know their dish should be ready to go — no reheating, no last-minute assembling, no fridge reshuffling required.
When in doubt, go for items that can sit at room temp or travel well — dips, cookies, salads, even a well-chilled drink.
3. Bring the Cheers (Creatively)
Sure, a bottle of prosecco is a party pleaser. But when everyone shows up with the same go-to, it can turn into a literal Champagne problem. Instead, think beyond the bottle:
- A signature cocktail kit (think: pre-batched negroni or margarita mix)
- A fun non-alcoholic option (sparkling shrubs or infused lemonades)
- Or even a visionary party cooler — with curated beer picks, craft sodas, or spiked seltzers
Let your drink offering be as memorable as the party itself.
4. Say Thank You Like You Mean It
In a world of emojis and DMs, a thoughtful thank-you still holds weight. Whether it’s a simple text or a full-on handwritten note (hello, retro charm!), your host will notice and appreciate the gesture.
Elsass recalls hosting friends who mailed him thank-you cards two days later — and they made an impression. It’s not about being over-the-top, it’s about recognizing the time, energy, and effort that goes into opening up one’s home.
5. End on a Sweet Note
Dessert is often an afterthought — but it shouldn’t be. Whether it’s cookies warm from the oven or an Instagram-worthy treat, a sweet finale leaves the best kind of lasting impression.
One standout idea? Mosaic Jell-O — a retro-inspired, colorful dessert that looks like stained glass and sparks joy in anyone who sees it. According to Elsass, it’s a “secret weapon” dessert — eye-catching, low-effort, and pure fun. And if someone compliments your brilliant dessert choice, here’s the perfect reply:
“Thanks! It’s from What Can I Bring? by Casey Elsass. You need to check it out.”
