In today’s world, it can feel like there is a never ending parade of events, occasions, and holidays that need to be addressed with a gift. Often times it’s hard to find an appropriate gift for each event. Fortunately, gift baskets can be the ultimate go-to present. They can be a great, general gift for the office during the holiday season or a sweet, personal gift for a baby shower.
Use these tips to create professional and thoughtful gift baskets whenever you need them.
The Container
A gift basket doesn’t always have to be in a basket. While baskets are lovely, especially for spring or Easter, a little variety can be exciting. You can use decorative tins or glass bowls, even holiday-themed containers! Paper Mart is a great resource for packaging and decorating supplies. Throughout the year, you’ll often end up giving 6-10 gift baskets for various events. It’s useful to buy them all at once and always have a great selection at home. If you can’t wait for shipping, you can get appropriate gift containers at most grocery or craft stores, so you can pick up a basket on your next grocery run.
The Stuffing
Now to decide what you want to stuff your container with. Not the gifts, but the paper or shred that’ll frame your items. Not every gift basket needs to be stuffed, but shredded paper or tissue add vibrancy and character to your gift. If a gift receiver loves purple, then you know stuffing their basket with purple and lavender tissue paper will put a smile on their face. In fact, during the winter it’s nice to use white, blue, and silver shred for a snowy touch. Sometimes, in large baskets adding a small platform inside your container to create a leveled display is a great way to make sure all the items are beautifully presented.
Cellophane
Many times people will leave their gift basket unwrapped. This not only looks unprofessional, but it’s haphazard and items can fall out or spill. You should also avoid using a plastic bag or construction paper to wrap your gift because all of your hard work will be hidden under a boring cover. Instead, use clear cellophane. When wrapping your basket, place it in the center of a length of cellophane to make sure you have a long enough piece before you cut it.
Ornaments
Another way you can add a personal touch is with ornaments. Bows and ribbons are pretty, but adding miniature nutcrackers during winter, flowers during spring, or even a representation of a person’s business (think a toothbrush ornament for a dentist or a dog ornament for your groomer) will make anyone feel special. It’s also fun to include a card with good wishes, holiday blessings, or a thank you note.
Gifts
Think of the occasion for this gift. Is it a simple ‘thank you’ gift for a dentist’s office, a wedding shower gift, or perhaps a holiday basket for the entire office? The event will help you decide what to include in your basket. An assortment of sweets, treats, and baked goods are great for any office, while a themed basket can help you personalize your gift. A mix of homemade and store bought items will help you keep your baskets under budget, as well. My favorite themed baskets are movie lover’s baskets, spa baskets, and tea lover’s baskets.
The Final Result
With a little bit of planning and effort, each of your gift baskets will be beautiful, delightful containers full of joy. For all your supply needs, there are various stores with a wonderful selection of products. Their selection and quality helps make all of your gifts look top-notch, and more importantly, your friends and family will love them.
Author Bio:
Carolyn Clarke is a freelance writer from Greenwich, Connecticut. She loves writing about paper crafts and holiday decorating. She spends her free time with family and loves to go on hikes with her husband, Jake.
