Are you ready for Christmas? Are you thinking about thank that new customer, or client? Okay, I will stop stressing you out, as I am sure that you get the point. So, you need a sure-fire strategy to shop for friends and show your gratitude for your patrons. Yes it is this easy: Gift baskets!

When you think gift baskets, what do you think of? Personally, I prefer gourmet baskets loaded with yummy treats, such as coffee, cookies and chocolate. But there are many options.

There are basket companies that fill gift baskets with just about anything you can think of. You can even locate vendors that will let you choose the basket's contents. So how do you decide on the ideal gift basket for the people that you love? Here are some easy easy methods.

1.Pick a gift basket that reflects what he/she loves. Are they into "sustainable" living? Then choose a basket that contains Fair Trade and Organic items like coffee, mugs and gifts from Nectar of Life Coffee Company www.nectaroflife.com. Maybe they get their jollys from fresh fruit and nuts. Then a basket from Harry and David would be a fantastic choice. Gift baskets can get pricey. But, gift baskets can be an easy way out.

2.There is always the choice of diving into creating a basket of your own. Don't let this idea intimidate you. The price range for this option is about $20.00-$200.00 +. Do consider that you will have to wrap and arrange delivery of the gift basket. If you don't price around, it could take away from whatever cost savings you realized by doing it yourself. If you decide to build your own gift basket here are some simple guidelines to get you started.

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

B.After establishing your theme, choose three "large" items that flow with the theme. Let's stick with the photographer. For this individual, choose a camera case, lenses for their camera, a flip style photo album, or if you have money, a camera or lens that they have always wanted.

C.Then choose four smaller 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.To wrap it all up include 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.Use glue dots (available at Michaels or local craft stores) to secure all items together. Use the glue dots sparsely a little go a long way. Glue down the big suff first. Then secure medium sized items, and the smaller stuff as filler around the bottom. Think pyramid as you are assembling the basket.

F.In conclusion, purchase a large piece of cellophane, or if you are ambitious, a roll of basket wrap. Bring the corners to the top and secure with a small section of ribbon.

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

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 vendor 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 incorporate a number of ideas, and goods. They are very functional and enjoyable. You can include a whole family with just one gift.