How to Make this Christmas Gift Buying Easy with Gift Baskets

Can you believe it is Holiday gift buying time again? If you own a business don't forget to remember your new clients. Enough of the stress talk. So, you need a sure-fire way to shop for friends and show your appreciation for clients. Yes it is this easy: Gift baskets!

When you think gift baskets, what comes to mind? Personally, I love gourmet baskets filled with yummy treats, such as coffee, cookies and chocolate. But really, that is only the beginning.

There are numerous companies that fill gift baskets with everything from spa treats, to doggy toys. You can even get a hold of companies that will let you choose the basket's theme and contents. So how do you choose the appropriate gift basket for your family, friends or client? Here are some easy simple guidelines.

1. Try to choose things that mirror the person's interests. Are they into "green" living? If so, then choose a basket that contains organic and Fair Trade items. Maybe they get their jollys from fresh fruit and nuts. Then a gift from Harry and David would be a perfect fit for the nut lover. Pre-Made gift baskets can range in price from $19.00 - $200.00 +. The benefits of gift baskets are a huge time-savings, and you can have them shipped with a custom card directly to the recipient.

2. A second option is to build a basket yourself. I know it sounds challenging, but it can be very easy, and you can enjoy a cost savings. The price range for this option is about $20.00-$200.00 +. One negative aspect is that you will have the shipping or delivery ordeal to deal with. If you don't shop around, it could consume whatever cost savings from using your own merchandise. If you decide to build your own gift basket here are some simple guidelines to get you started.

A. Choose a themed container to fill with goodies. Perhaps the recipient is a photographer or fisherman.

B. Now that you have committed to a theme, purchase 3 large items for starters. Let's stick with the photographer. For this individual, choose something inexpensive like a strap, or if you have cash, a camera or lens that they have always wanted.

C. To add to the basket buy 4 less expensive items. For the cameraman you could purchase lens cleaning items and straps. These are just a few suggestions.

D. To wrap it all up throw in some treats. 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. You can use glue dots (available at Michaels or local craft stores) to secure all items together. Use them sparingly, one or two per item is all that is needed. Glue down the big items first. Then glue down medium sized items, and the smaller stuff as filler around the bottom. Think pyramid as you are making the basket.

F. Last, purchase a large piece of cellophane, or if you are a real go getter, a roll of basket wrap. Bring the corners to the top and secure with a little section of ribbon.

G. Using a ornate bow on top is the perfect item to bring it all together.

3. If you have items that you want to place into a gift basket, but don't have the time to build one yourself, find a company that will do it for you. Many times there are companies that can both assemble and attach a bow to a basket that you have basically created. This option ranges in cost.

Gift baskets can bring together a number of ideas, and goods. They are very stylish and enjoyable. You can cover a whole family with just one gift.

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

Hannah Jennings divides her time among family, and the business she owns and helps operate, Nectar of Life Organic Fair Trade Coffee. She has been making coffee themed gifts 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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