Do You Want to End the Frustration of Gift Giving this Christmas?

Can you believe it is Holiday gift buying time again? Are you ready to thank that new customer, or client? Okay, I will stop trying to stress you out, as I am sure that you get the message. So, you want a reliable strategy to shop for friends and show your gratitude for customers. Yes it is this easy: Gift baskets!

Gift baskets can take on many forms. Personally, I prefer gourmet baskets loaded with delicious treats, such as coffee, cookies and chocolate. But really, that is only the beginning.

There are thousands of companies that fill gift baskets with everything from spa treats, to doggy items. You can even get a hold of vendors that will let you choose the gift basket's fillings. So how do you pick the perfect gift basket for your family, friends or client? Here are three easy easy methods.

1. Try to choose things that mirror the person's likes. Are they into "sustainable" living? If so, then buy a gift basket that contains organic and Fair Trade goods. Maybe they are into fresh fruit and nuts. Then a gift from Harry and David would be a perfect fit for the nut lover. Gift baskets can get pricey. But, gift baskets can be a real time-saver.

2. A second option is to create a basket yourself. Don't let this idea intimidate you. The price range for this option is about $20.00-$200.00 +. One negative thing is that you will have the shipping or delivery hassle to deal with. If you don't price around, it could consume whatever cost savings you realized by doing it yourself. If you decide to create your own gift basket here are a few tips to get you going.

A. You will need a theme-based basket or box (a photographer, for instance would be able to use a photo box; a fisherman, a tackle box; a child could use a fabric lined basket as a toy box, etc.)

B. Now that you have committed to a theme, buy 3 large items for starters. Let's stick with the photographer. For this person, choose a camera case, lenses for their camera, a flip style photo album, or if you have cash, a camera or lens that they have always wanted.

C. Then choose four smaller items. For a fisherman, this might include lures, and a reel . These are just a few suggestions.

D. As a final touch include small snacks, trinkets or edibles that tie your gift together. For a child, a few ideas would be fruit roll-ups, jewelry, die-cast cars, hair ties, fancy shoelaces, or their favorite candy (as approved by their parents).

E. Use glue dots (available at Michaels or local craft stores) to secure all items in place. Don't get out-of-control with them, one or two per item is all that is necessary. Put the big items in first. Then secure medium sized items, and the smaller stuff as filler around the bottom. Aim for a pyramid as you are assembling the basket.

F. Finally, purchase a basket bag, or if you are ambitious, a roll of basket wrap. Cut your wrap large enough to surround the whole basket, then secure the corners at the top with a piece of ribbon.

G. For the perfect topper, a bow at the top will create a gift that is both festive and stylish.

3. If you have things that you want to place into a gift basket, but don't have the skills to build one yourself, find a company that will do it for you. Many times there are gift basket companies that can both assemble and attach a bow to a basket that you have basically created. This option ranges in cost from $25.00- $100.00 depending on how much work, and materials you use.

Gift baskets can incorporate a number of ideas, and goods. They are very appealing and enjoyable. All age ranges, and interests can be covered and encompassed in just one gift.

Article Source: http://www.series-of-articles.com

Hannah Jennings spends her time among family, and the business she owns with her husband, Nectar of Life Organic Coffee. She has been creating gift baskets for family and friends for many years. To learn about gift giving, check out her gift baskets at www.nectaroflife.com.

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