Invited to a party...should we take a gift?

It would be nice of you to give them something, especially if you're their house guest -- and you may be since it's an 11 hour drive, unless you're staying at a hotel. Don't call to ask what they are serving -- even if you take wine you shouldn't intend for them to serve it at the party. It's for them, not guests, so it won't matter what kind you give them. And don't bring food. Nothing is worse than someone bringing food that doesn't go with the meal you've prepared and then they expect it to be served at the party. It's not a pot luck dinner. Give them a bottle of good wine, or have flowers delivered before you arrive.

This is a good question that most often ignored.

Anytime you are invited to someone home for dinner, drinks or refreshments, it is proper to bring something, whether it be some wine, deserts or some sort of nuts.

Next time, when you are invited to someones home, ask if there is anything you can bring. If they say no, then I wouldn't. But I would follow up with a thank you note saying you and your wife had a great time and look forward to having them over in your home.

Yeah why not? Couldnt hurt. I would like it if someone got me a gift and it is great to be within their circle of friends especially if you do not have any. Good for you! I suggest flowers, along with wine, dessert something like that depending on the party. Have fun!

A Fine bottle of wine is always a good gift. If you prefer not to give alcohol, a nice floral arrangement is good, or a live plant. In fact, I like the live plant better, because the flowers die and get thrown out, but a live plant is a reminder of you.

A nice bottle of wine should suffice. It's not overly personal. You could call and ask what kind of food you'll be eating so you can bring the proper wine to go along with the meal.

You should definetely bring something. It would be nice to make a really good sweet treat that is homemade. Or one of your wife's special dishes that everyone really likes.

what are you talking about, food won't be an option?

there's cake, cookies, snacks, chocolates, etc.

foods like those will easily last 11 hours.

wow, someone needs to get more involved with cooking and household affairs...

I would take a bottle of something and a box of chocolates.

Of course you should. It is for courtesy or to tell them you are a friend.