Whether you are shopping for a gift for that little-known co-worker or for your best buddy, a themed gift basket can be the perfect choice. A themed gift basket is one that you create yourself, as opposed to a "gourmet" one you order from a company. Not only is this often a more affordable option, but it provides the opportunity to tailor the gift to any occasion or person. It transforms a potentially generic gift into one that is special and personalized.

A get-well gift basket is the perfect solution for comforting up a sick friend. Homemade goodies may be especially appreciated by those confined to a hospital bed. A plate of chocolate chip cookies or brownies, some homemade chicken soup, or a family recipe can be particularly comforting. However, be sure to check on the recipient's dietary restrictions first. Don't worry if you can't cook. You can still include the recipient's favorite snack or a couple of envelopes of instant chicken soup tied with a ribbon and placed in a cheery mug. Tuck in a magazine, novel or puzzle book that matches the person's interest. For a gravely sick relative or friend, a special letter, poem, or picture collage is priceless.

A fantastic substitute to boring thank you cards is a thank you gift basket. Let someone know you truly appreciate their gift with this kind of thank you. A basket like this also provides a great opportunity to cater it to the individual receiving it. As an extra special touch, think about the individual's favorite things in order to create a gift basket they will love. For example, if the recipient loves sports, include some themed treats such as cookies or chocolates in the shape of their favorite sport. If you do not know of any special theme to include then simply add a variety of items to ensure the individual likes at least something you have included.

A sympathy gift can be one of the hardest gifts to buy. Creating a gift basket that incorporates the tastes of the recipient can be particularly helpful in this situation. Think about what you know about the person. What makes her happy? What does she do to de-stress? What activities, scents, flavors and images does she find comforting. General types of items to include might be scented candles, bath salts, or a small plant. Homemade comfort foods can be particularly comforting to those in mourning. Again, a personalized letter or memories or a photo collage may be most appreciated.

In happier times, you might want to get someone a Happy Birthday gift basket! Keep in mind that the "basket" doesn't have to be a basket at all! If they're outdoorsy and like to hike or camp, how about a "gift backpack" filled with energy bars and camping supplies? Give your favorite movie lover a popcorn bowl stocked with DVDs and movie tickets. The scrapbooker in your life would be thrilled with a plastic storage box filled with colorful papers, stickers and ribbon. If the birthday boy or girl has a hobby, their gift basket will be a breeze to fill. Just make sure you get a big enough container to hold all your great gift ideas!

When you're helping someone celebrate their new home, they'll love a Housewarming gift basket. A planter box filled with garden tools and gloves along with some flower seeds, a mixing bowl filled with kitchen tools and a nice cookbook, or a wicker basket with some pretty soaps and hand towels are just a few ideas. Don't forget their pet! A dog bowl stuffed with toys and treats will help Fido feel at home in his new digs!

As you can see, creating your own themed gift baskets can be a wonderful alternative both to the traditional wrapped gift and to the "gourmet" gift baskets available for purchase. You can create anything from a simple, small token of appreciation basket to an elaborate birthday extravaganza basket. By creating your own basket, you can determine how much you spend while gift that is truly meaningful to the recipient. Remember, it's not the cost of the gift, but the thought. The more thought you put into creating a personalized basket, the more meaningful the gift will be.