What Are Gift Baskets?
Where Did the Basket Originate? Since the beginning of mankind,
man has woven grasses, straw, twigs and branches to create
baskets. Early uses for the basket were to store dry goods and
to transport food and materials. In biblical times, larger
baskets were used for transporting people and goods on the
water. Always a useful, sturdy container, it was a tool of man
for tens of thousands of years.
The First American Gift Baskets When the Mayflower landed on the
shores of America, the European settlers were greeted with the
first gift baskets. Dried fish and meats, corn, beans and other
vegetables were presented to the settlers, by the American
Indians, to welcome their arrival. In the 1700 and 1800's,
individuals created baskets full of fruits, foods and candies
for Christmas, Easter and other holidays. Today's gift baskets
are crafted to the individual recipients tastes for holidays,
special occasions or "just because" gift giving. Fruits, foods
and candies now share space in gift baskets with "useable" items
for the baby, the bath, the kitchen or for play. The baskets or
boxes themselves are designed to be creatively used as well by
the recipient once they've enjoyed the contents of the gift
basket.
What to consider when buying a gift basket?
Baby Gift Baskets These popular gift baskets provide the new
parents clothing, towels, blankets, soap and shampoo for the new
baby. The new arrival can expect to receive rattles, books and
other baby items for them to play with.
Fruit Baskets Always a great gift, these baskets are loaded with
delicious apples, pears, other seasonal fruits and nuts. They
are perfect for any occasion, and as people look to provide a
healthy gift, these baskets are becoming more popular.
Gourmet Gift Baskets The "old reliable" in gift baskets for
years, these gifts traditionally have been filled with gourmet
chocolates and nuts. More recently, these baskets are customized
with gourmet coffee, tea and chocolate drinks; Italian foods
stocked for entire dinner; sauces and rubs for the barbeque.
Corporate Gift Baskets This gift basket category is becoming
more popular with each passing year. Businesses send them to
their clients to say "thank you" or to say "happy holidays".
Many companies present them to their employees in recognition of
a job well done, for anniversaries, for the arrival of new baby
or for a holiday gift.
Birthday Gift Baskets Here you will have a wide selection to
choose from. In gift baskets for children, you will find a
variety containing candy, toys, books and gift certificates. For
the women, spa items, chocolates, candies, gardening items and
her favorite beverage to relax with can be found. For the man,
in addition to traditional candy and nuts, sports, cigar,
cooking and barbeque gift baskets are crafted to meet his
personal tastes and interests. Gift baskets provide numerous and
unique ways to say "Happy Birthday".
Condolences Gift Baskets When heartfelt sympathy is due,
consider sending to the home of family or friends a condolences
gift basket. Are you looking to send a whole meal? Or snacks and
treats? Send them a gift to convey your sympathy and let them
know that they are in your thoughts.
Gift Baskets for Her You want to spoil her "just because of who
she is". Look for a gift that she would truly enjoy.
Aromatherapy, a spa gift, a mug of her favorite coffee or tea or
gourmet chocolates are unique and "just for her". Reusable items
such as candle holders, bath sponges, or a coffee mug make the
gift a lasting memory.
Gift baskets For Him What are your man's interests? A gift
basket comes in many varieties. Does he barbeque or enjoy being
a gourmet chef? A sports themed basket for football, baseball
golf or fishing is appropriate. Or does he like to share a
gourmet chocolate or food on a quiet evening? Treat his tastes
with a gift especially for him.
Get Well Gift Baskets Sometimes flowers or balloons just won't
do. A soup meal, a game book, snacks or a mug of hot tea fits
the bill. A gift basket sends your get well wishes in a unique
way. For hospital deliveries, make sure your recipient is still
a "guest".
Luxurious Spa Gift Baskets Pamper that someone special with a
spa at home. Bath gels, body lotions, loofahs, creams and even a
gourmet snack or chocolate are a great idea. These gift baskets
turn your home into their private spa retreat.
Sports Gift Baskets Baseball, football, golf or fishing? What is
their interest? Memorabilia, books, a tee or a creel are items
that special someone will enjoy. Candy and/or snacks should be
included with this gift. A gift with their interest in mind!
Wedding Gift Baskets If you're looking for a unique wedding gift
consider the gift basket. A time capsule or a picture frame to
remember their special day. Commemorative champagne glasses and
a gourmet treat will express your wishes. These are great gifts
for family and friends alike.
Kids Gift Baskets What do your kids like? Probably a sampling
of gifts is the answer. Books and popcorn. Snacks and candy.
Certificates and toys. "Can you make them happy? Yes you can!"
Look for stuff they enjoy and that you feel good giving.
Housewarming Gift Baskets Consider this gift if your relative or
friend moves into their new home. If you are a real estate agent
and you want to express your thanks to your client, think a gift
basket as a unique housewarming gift. A meal, gourmet food or a
unique, reusable basket says "Congratulations" to the new home
owner.
Holiday Gift Baskets Whether it's Christmas, Valentine's Day,
Mother's Day, Father's Day or any other traditional holiday,
give a gift that sends your wishes with the spirit, flavors and
colors of the holiday. Personalize the gift with items that
reflect the individual's interests and tastes to insure their
enjoyment and to tell that that you really care.
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