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'Tis the season to be prepared

Don’t get caught empty-handed for neighborhood parties, spur-of-the-moment gift exchanges or the co-worker you left off your list. Head for the shops now, before the crowds set in, and stock up on some great hostess gifts.

Not sure what’s appropriate?

We rounded up our favorite items and package ideas for this year’s holiday gift closet.

Peace on Earth

Black and green grocery bags. Fold and pack a passel of bags into one tote and tie a raffia around the handle. Kroger bags, $1 each, Kroger; Canvas market totes, $2.99 each, World Market

Natura Cabernet Sauvignon made with organically grown grapes, $9.99, Kroger

Archer Farms Fair Trade Certified Organic Tierra Del Sol Coffee, $7.49, and red mug, $4.99, both from Target

Baby, it’s cold outside

Lounge socks, $7.50, and Holiday Traditions Lotion gift set, $10, both from Bath & Body Works

Scarf and gloves set, $16.99, Stein Mart

Archer Farms hot cocoa, $3.99, Target; It’s a Wonderful Life and White Christmas double-feature DVD, $13, Target; plush throw, $6.99, Kirkland’s

Season’s greetings

Merci Beaucoup thank-you cards by Anna Griffin, $7.99, Target

Cristalino Brut Rose, $6.99, and Moroccan tea glasses, $4.99 each, World Market

500 Cupcakes recipe book, $11.99, Stein Mart; Chefmate muffin pan, $5.99, Target

Good will toward men

Archer Farms pistachios, $3.50, Target; pub mats, $4.99, World Market

Every Man Jack shave kit, $9.99, Target

4-Pack Guinness Pub Draught, $7.49, and Guinness pub glasses, $2.99 each, World Market

Deck the halls

Large green votive, $4; medium red votive, $3; green tealight, $.75, all from Pier 1 Imports

Bah Humbug blocks, $7.99, Kirkland’s; "Believe" decorative sign, $14.99, Stein Mart

Robert Stanley Santa ornament, $7.99, and red ornament stand, $7.99, both from Hobby Lobby

Photos: Star-Telegram/Ron T. Ennis