Go for Gift Baskets this Christmas

Christmas is round the corner and people are seen shopping everywhere. There are attractive deals and special offers in stores. People all over, men, women, couples, teenagers all have one thing in common – they are busy shopping for Christmas. 

This is the season women love to decorate their homes with new furnishing and decor items. Men ponder of different types of liqueurs and the special guest lists for that special Christmas party. Children are all excited about Santa’s gifts and teenagers and couples are always in a state of anxiety as there is never enough money to buy all they wish for their sweethearts. 

You receive an invitation to a Christmas party and immediately start thinking about an ideal gift that would delight your friend(s) and be useful for them too. 

What is better than gifting your friend or loved one with goodies the person likes? Instead of buying a present this Christmas, consider a gift basket with small gifts and things that you know they would like. 

A gift basket could contain any or all of the following: 

Cookies: You could get a large basket and fill it with cookies and crunches that are just about everybody’s favorite. Think about the recipient. If your friends are crazy about cheese and crackers, you could get a variety of them; arrange them in a basket with attractive decorations. 

Sweets: For friends with a sweet tooth, you could think of loading the basket with chocolate-coated nougats, caramel bags, milk chocolate bars, chocolate biscuits, and caramel toffees. Puddings and pastries also go well with this type of a gift basket. 

Winter Treats: Your basket can be loaded with wintry treats. These include hot cocoa, soup mixes, handcrafted caramel popcorn and ginger tea. These are most ideal for friends who are in their forties and fifties. 

Candles and Accessories: A gift basket full of candles of different shapes and sizes would delight your mom or grand mom a great deal. You could choose from the long ones to the round ones, from the ovals to the squares, the scented and the non-scented varieties. 

Wines: A basket with an array of premium wines created with the individual’s tastes in mind is perhaps the most popular of all gifts during Christmas. Celebrations are incomplete without toasts and what better than wine for the toasts. The fruity flavors are very popular and a big hit among most people.  

You could also go for a combination of goodies that could be a mixture of each of these. Cheese, crackers and wine go well together, soups and custards can make a good combination, chocolates and wafers also go well together. The list is endless!

The secret of a good gift basket is in being a little innovative. Try something new and you will be remembered for a long time to come.

Gifts This Season: The Wow Effect

Gifts are given for many reasons especially on occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, housewarmings and work anniversaries. Some are given as a thank-you, some to please sweethearts, and some are given to motivate kids!

Whatever be the reason, when we give someone a gift, we wait to see the reaction of the receiver when he opens the gift. We wait for that word that comes from them – that word “wow.”

This is all what gifts are about. The “wow” that is heard and this word is what pleases us. That smile on the receiver’s face is worth all the trouble taken, and the money spent on it. Here are some tips on how to choose gifts for your loved ones. 

Observe their Likes and Dislikes

This goes a long way in helping you select a gift that your loved one will like. Your friend may have just about everything, but would have mentioned at some point of time, his or her craving. It helps to remember these things. Yes, it is difficult to remember, but do make a mental note of it. When you see something like it, buy it, even if it means keeping it for months for that one special occasion! 

Know your Friend's Interest

If you are unable to peg the likes and dislikes, you could dwell on your friend’s interests. If he or she has a pet, gifting a simple bow tie for her dog will make her happy. If she is interested in reading fiction, getting her the latest novel would make an ideal gift. 

Spend Some Time 

Do not buy gifts in a hurry. Spend some time pondering over the display. Sometimes what YOU like may not be appreciated by the receiver. For example, if you see a painting that you would like to gift, do ponder over the color of the receiver’s wall and whether the chosen gift would look good on your friend’s wall. Spending some time for your loved one is worth it. 

Remember, Your Gifts Communicate

Yes, the gifts you give are a powerful communication tool. They say a lot of things, and sometimes things that you may not even have dreamt of. Some gifts communicate distance, some reveal intimacy. They have the ability to say “I love your creativity”, or “Take a good look at yourself.” So, choose something that does not communicate anything insulting.

Anthropologists say that givers are the happiest people when they spend some time dwelling their thoughts on the people they love. Recipients are the happiest people when they receive a gift they wanted. So thoughtfulness always pays. 

Finally, here is a quote from Vera Nazarian, from ‘The Perpetual Calendar of Inspiration’,

“Gift giving is a true art.

1. You need to understand the person to whom you intend to give the gift.

2. You need to know what they truly want.

3. You must be able to give it to them.

Anything less is a symptom of varying degrees, on your part, of ignorance, distance, or insult.

But if you cannot afford the right gift, telling the person what you would do if you could, justifies everything—as you present that not-so-perfect substitute.”

Halloween Gift baskets for kids

Most kids relate Halloween with candy bars and pumpkin carvings instead of gifts. But Halloween gift baskets can be a very inventive and creative way to celebrate one of the spookiest holidays of the year. Whether it’s a customized gift for a kid with dietary restrictions, or a bag full of creative things, Halloween gift baskets can combine thoughtfulness with signature spookiness.

Classic gift basket ideas

To create a classic Halloween basket, stock up on Halloween-themed candy bars and treats. Add a few special goodies, such as caramel popcorn balls, caramel apples, or pumpkin muffins and cookies, wrapped-up in orange sheets. Make sure you use an orange and black basket and stick fake cobwebs instead of a bow. Apart from this, you can also add trinkets, coloring books, stickers and cartoon DVD’s appropriate for the child.

Creative ideas for a basket 

Since children will receive plenty of sweets and candy during trick-or-treating, create a gift basket that contains non-edible items, to add to the Halloween spirit. Use a jack-o-lantern made of plastic to act as a gift basket, which can also be used as a trick-or-treating basket later. Pack small safety strips and flashlights for safety and visibility while trick-or-treating during the night. Add toothpaste and toothbrushes with a Halloween theme to encourage kids to brush after consuming Halloween candy.

Healthy gift basket ideas

For kids who are not allowed to eat candy or are diabetic, it's impossible to celebrate the festival with classic trick-or-treating. Arrange a Halloween gift basket that’s full of healthy items, to help children enter the Halloween spirit without sacrificing on nutrition. Use sugar-free muffins or cookies, snacks such as popcorn, mixed nuts and dried fruits. You can also look for sugar-free or healthy candies in Halloween theme.

Gift baskets for older kids 

For many older kids, Halloween is a time for gross-out humor and indulging in spine-chilling spookiness. A spooky gift basket can be an excellent idea for teenagers. Include Halloween costume accessories, such as a witch's hat, vampire teeth, zombie face paint and fake blood. Put in a few DVD’s of horror movies (age-appropriate), or even age-appropriate comic books. You can also include gross-out candy, such as gummy insects and eyeballs.

Baskets for older kids can also contain fun Halloween activities such as brain teasers, puzzles, and board games. Snuggle in the board games with a few snacks for the kids to enjoy. 

Decorating baskets

Gift baskets can also contain practical items, such as a basket full of Halloween decorations. Pick out fake yard signs, door hangers, spider webs, and other outdoor decorations available at your local store. Indoor decorations such as wall hangings and candy containers can also help the kids gear up for Halloween.

Halloween baskets are an economical way to give away a lot of presents at once without spending too much money. Consider using a plastic pumpkin, trick-or-treat pail, or other vessels for the basket. Remember, the most impressive Halloween gift baskets are those that have a central theme that connects to the season and contains items, from treats and candy to inexpensive gift items.

What to gift your company employees this Halloween?

Giving away holiday gifts is a great way to thank your employees for the work ethic and hard work they put into making your company successful. Corporate gifts are also a great way to motivate and encourage employees who may have lost their way in the daily slog and do not always feel valued. Since Halloween is just around the corner, here are some gifts that should make this holiday special for all your workers:

Cookie gift baskets:

Fill up an attractive basket with a range of home-baked cookies. You can add in a variety of flavors such as cranberry, chocolate chip, peanut butter and oatmeal raisin. Snuggle the cookies over paper confetti to add volume to the container. You can either buy gift baskets from a craft store or place bulk orders with gift basket makers.

Spirits:

Fill up gift bags with wine or spirit miniatures that have customized labels. You can buy custom labels exhibiting your company's slogan and logo, and then stick them over the bottles. To add to the attractiveness of the gift, you can also add a box of chocolates. Offer a non-alcoholic drink as well such as juices in exotic flavors or sparkling apple cider for those who are not fond of hard drinks.

Company Halloween party: 

Host a fun Halloween party for all your employees. Thank them for all their hard work during the busy season. You can also give away souvenirs, depending on your budget. Halloween party giveaways can include baseball caps, company T-shirts, chocolates, candies, and much more.

Good night gift basket:

If you have the budget to go all out for your employees then a good night gift basket will be highly appreciated. Include a blanket, some nice sheets, and a robe. For personalization, you can add towels with your company’s imprint.

Breakfast gift basket:

After a night long celebration of Halloween, who wouldn’t like to indulge in a delicious late breakfast basket? Fill a basket with jars of jam and jelly, gourmet pancake mix, maple syrup and packs of ham or bacon. Add flavored teas and coffee to the container as well. You can also add apple or orange juice to make the meal complete.

Practical items:

Practical items such as, mint tins filled up with mints, aluminum water bottles, insulated travel mugs, luggage tags, and business card holders can come in very handy. Apart from these, sensible gifts such as ink pens, picture frames and paper weights are also appreciated as corporate gifts.

Creative items:

Grabbing your employee’s attention through gift items is a great idea. But tying the giveaways to your company's products or goals is even better. For instance, a bakery owner can giveaway cake recipes and baking tools in a gift basket, while a financial services provider can gift gold colored lucky charms as a Halloween present.

To “woo” your employees with a corporate Halloween gift basket or a bag, you need to have a big bag filled to the brim with great gifts. It is best to choose items that are creative and practical. If you gift something useful, like a pen or a bottle of wine or delicious edibles, your employees are more likely to make use of them and remember you while doing so.

Fall Gift Basket Ideas

“No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace as I have seen in one autumnal face."- John Donne

There is no season more beautiful and romantic than autumn. To make the time even more memorable for your near and dear ones why not give them a fall gift basket? A fall gift bag can be packed with a multitude of items, revolving around this crisp and colorful season. Since autumn has its own sensory experiences, include gifts that will charm the senses.

Treat for the nose

There is nothing that can spark memories of comfy fall nights better than scented candles. Look for decorative scented candles online or at a candle store to put inside the gift basket. Use a lot of shredded paper to make sure the bottom is properly cushioned. There are a variety of scents that you can gift including, cinnamon, apple, and the like.

For tantalizing the taste buds

There are so many things that represent autumn! One great example is caramel apple cider combined with large assorted cookies. Assemble a large basket with good quality cinnamon sticks, caramels, assorted cookies and your favorite recipe for homemade apple cider to make your recipient’s days flavorful.

Apart from this, you can also theme your basket around seasonal wines. Who wouldn’t like to receive a wonderful red wine with a rich indulgence of chocolate? But in case your recipient is a health freak, a gift box tailored with yummy edibles such as apples, pears, pumpkin cookies, and salted mixed nuts also makes a great option!

For the eyes

Autumn is the best time to make memories with your family; hiking through the forests and jumping on the leaves. There are several gift makers who provide a wide selection of autumn themed photo frames that can be used to display those perfect moments. You can also choose to personalize these frames with engravings and color preferences.

Treat for the ears

The sound of popcorn popping off the cob and the music player playing festive songs can bring back so many memories for family and friends. Your gift basket can include your recipient’s favorite corn flavors and music CD’s. For instance, if your dad loves Frank Sinatra then perhaps a mix CD of the artist’s favorite hits will make a great gift! Also, if you’re budget is high, including a portable media player such as an I-pod won’t hurt.

To Feel

What better way to make all your senses come alive than a beautifully landscaped house garden? Gifting your loved ones a basket full of garden necessities makes for a great gift. You can also put in a pair of gardening gloves that are suitable for collecting leaves in. Wearing gloves while scraping off the leaves helps cut down on possible splinters and blisters.

With just a few thoughtful items, which you can find at a gift shop, you can certainly make your recipient’s days beautiful! And once all the items are safely arranged inside a container, tie the basket up with a pretty ribbon to add to its charm.

5 gift baskets to enjoy on a romantic weekend

One of the best ways to bring the spark back into your relationship is to plan a romantic weekend. Stock a heavy assortment of romantic goodies in a basket and snuggle away from distractions! Here are five types of gift baskets that can do wonders to your love life and make your weekend truly romantic.

Spa for two basket:

Can there be a better way to add fire to your love life than spending two days around candles and bubble bath? Create your own spa basket by adding scented candles, massage oils, soaps and gels. Also, snuggle in a fine bottle of wine and chocolates as treats. 

It is best to avoid gifts such as lingerie, or items that may cause embarrassment unless you are sure how your partner will react.  

Breakfast:

Weekends are all about spending time together. If the two of you are early risers then a breakfast gift basket is the way to go. Create a perfect basket using pastries and ingredients to make waffles and pancakes. You can also incorporate fresh fruits and yummy syrups for topping. For beverages, include small packs of teas and coffee.

Getaway basket:

A basket for a romantic weekend getaway may include a CD from your favorite band to enjoy during the journey. You can also snuggle in snacks such as, candy, cookies, and chips for the car. It is best to customize your basket according to the destination you are planning to visit. For instance, if you are taking a short adventure trip to the woods, make sure you pack in the necessities such as, mosquito repellants, energy bars and other supplies. Staying up hungry or getting bitten by insects can be a total romantic buzz kill. 

 

Meal in a basket:

A romantic meal at home followed by intimate moments may just be what your relationship needs. Include a variety of seasonings, gourmet foods and your favorite ingredients for the meal. Cooking a meal together is a great way to spend time. You can also add to the atmosphere by opening up a bottle of wine and making room for dessert. Experts believe that creamy desserts and chocolates act as aphrodisiacs that can trigger hormones of love inside men and women.  

Creative games: 

There are a variety of games that you can choose to spark conversations. Adult card games such as, Pictionary and Phase 10 are an interesting choice. If you want to take it a notch higher then opt for “truth or dare”. The main idea behind a game gift basket is improving communication, enhancing intimacy, and strengthening the bond between couples.

A weekend gift basket is more than just a present for your significant other. It will help you set the mood for an intimate setting that will ultimately help you revive your romance. The basket can include almost anything that the couple feels is romantic. Apart from this, as mentioned above, it can even follow a central theme, such as dinner date night, Valentine's Day, or weekend getaway.