One quick question about AI etiquette...

[FloridaTish]

I was invited to XYZ's next meeting and it is a casual luncheon being held at an alumnae's house. Growing up, my mother taught me that you should always bring the hostess a "gift" of sorts (nice plant in a basket, bottle of wine for a dinner event, etc) and this is a rule I have always followed.

We are supposed to bring a side dish/dessert to share (I'm whipping out my awesome Pina Colada cheesecake recipe) and I am inclined to additionally bring a nice plant in a basket since I've only met the hostess a few times, but would I come across as looking like I am trying to hard?

Naturally I want to make a great impression, but I fear being branded a suck-up...Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!