Can you believe it is Christmas shopping time again? If you own a business don't neglect to remember your existing clients. Enough of the stress talk. So, you want a reliable strategy to shop for friends and show your gratitude for your patrons. Solution: Gift baskets!



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

There are gift basket purveyors that fill gift baskets with just about anything you can think of. Some companies let you pick the items that you want to put in them! So how do you pick the appropriate gift basket for the people that you love? Here are a few easy simple guidelines.

1.Try to choose things that reflects the recipient's likes. Are they into "organic" living? Then select a basket that contains Fair Trade and Organic items like coffee, mugs and gifts from Nectar of Life Coffee Company. Maybe they are into fresh fruit and nuts. Then a gift from Harry and David would be a perfect fit for the nut lover. Pre-Made 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.There is always the option of diving into creating a basket of your own. I know it sounds daunting, but it can be very easy. The price range to make your own basket is about $20.00-$200.00 +. One negative aspect is that you will have the shipping or delivery hassle to deal with. If you don't price around, it could take away from whatever cost savings you realized by doing it yourself. Should you choose to make your own gift basket here are some simple guidelines to get you going.

A.You will want a theme 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.After choosing your theme, choose three "big" items that flow with the theme. 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 gift basket buy 4 more items. For a fisherman, this might include a fly-fishing reel, multi-tool, pliers, flashlight, a pen sized pole (available at Wal-Mart, Joe's and other sporting goods stores), and a waterproof zippered pouch. 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 treat (as approved by their parents).

E.You can use glue dots (available at Michaels or local craft stores) to secure everything together. Use the glue dots sparingly a few go a long way. Glue down the big items first. Then glue down medium sized items, and the small items as filler around the bottom. Think pyramid as you are assembling the basket.

F.Finally, purchase a large piece of cellophane, or if you are a real go getter, a roll of basket wrap. Cut your wrap big enough to swallow the whole gift basket, then secure the corners at the top with a piece of ribbon.

G.For the crowning jewel, a bow at the top will create a gift that is both festive and elegant.

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

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