You could bring a bottle of wine or other libation that will blend in with all the bottles brought by everyone else.

Instead, make your hostess gift stand out—permanently. A mug, plate or other Halloween-themed serving piece will be a permanent reminder that you came to party.

To add to the memento, take a Sharpie and inscribe the bottom of the piece with a Halloween greeting and the year.

Happy Halloween from THE NIBBLE, 2010. Rock on, ghouls.

Drink from Dracula, $9.95 at Amazon.com.