Gift Idea for Everyone

Whether a birthday, anniversary, Christmas or just because, at one time or another everyone needs to buy a gift. When uncertain what to buy, gift baskets are a sensible choice. The beauty of gift baskets is their universal appeal - accepted by both men and women. In fact, they could well be the closest thing to the perfect gift, because they can be completely designed to suit the giver, recipient, the occasion, time and place. Yet when it comes to gift basket giving, keeping it traditional is often better. Why? Well, when you stop to think about it, it’s bad enough to give a gift that someone really doesn’t want or need. But imagine giving someone a whole basket of gifts that they have no use for? Not only is this embarrassing for you, if and when you do find out, but it’s extremely disappointing for the recipient. So fuss and specialty aside, here’s some traditional gift basket ideas that are sure to hit a homerun:

Gourmet Gift Basket: The gourmet basket is the poster child of the gift basket industry. A basket such as this typically includes chocolates, cookies, cheese, crackers, hard candies, nut mixes and snacks presented in a beautiful wicker or reed basket. They come in various sizes, usually small to jumbo, and can range in price from thirty dollars to over a couple hundred dollars.

Fruit Basket: Who wouldn’t want to receive a handsome wicker basket overflowing with luscious fruits such as Tangelos, Bartlett and Star Crimson pears, Fuji and Royal Gala apples, Bing cherries and more? Fruit excites the palate and warms the heart. And you can send a smorgasbord of premium fruit for under a hundred dollars.

Candle Basket: It’s hard to go wrong with candles. The soothing glow and refreshing aroma of a lit candle has cast a spell among consumers. In fact, according to USA Today, we spent more than $8.4 million dollars last year on candles and home fragrances. That’s a lot of wax! Mesmerizing, they are indeed one of life’s little luxuries and a top gift basket pick. One note of caution: gift basket retailers like to pair up candles with spa products and home décor. So, if you’re looking for a candle-only basket, try visiting a candle shop such as Yankee Candle or Wicks n’ Sticks. The general price range: sixty to one hundred dollars. If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift or just plain lost for time, a traditional gift basket is the ideal solution. They are the perfect way to say, "Happy Birthday, Congratulations, Thanks or Just Because."

For some people, gift giving comes naturally. For others, it’s like trying to find the needle in the haystack while blindfolded. Yes, gift giving is an art. But don’t be intimidated. Some gifts are a given and will suit any occasion, person or event. Your best bet? Food! You already know that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Yummy delights are also a way to say thank you, happy holidays or happy birthday to co-workers, family or friends. That is why any of these yummy gift ideas are the recipe for happiness:

Recipe Tree: Put together a collection of treasured family recipes to create a unique family recipe tree. Place them in a lasting scrapbook for a dramatic effect. Or copy them onto a heavyweight colored paper and cut them so that they fit into a pocket photo album. Whatever presentation method you choose, this is a gift that is certain to tug at the heartstrings.

Gift Baskets: Gift baskets are the perfect standby, especially when they are overflowing with mouthwatering delicacies! Whether sweet treats or gourmet tidbits, a food gift basket is guaranteed to do the trick. Try one from Fiji’s, Harry and David or Wine Country.

Godiva Chocolates: Surprise your recipient with a gift from Godiva, which is considered to produce the world’s most elegant, hand-crafted chocolates. They also have a great selection of other food items. Choose from truffles, hot cocoa, biscotti, hard candies and more. Godiva is a distinctly refined and decadent gift, and perfect for any occasion.

Homemade Goodies: Homemade items are a wonderful gift and are fun to make. Cheesecake, cookies, jams, jellies, sauces and breads are loved by all or you can get original. Do you have a favorite recipe to whip up? Or take a look online. The Internet is loaded with alternative and fun-filled recipe ideas. What about Kitty Litter Cake (don’t worry!) or Dirt Pie?

Smoothie Maker: Smoothie makers were designed with one thing in mind? Smoothies! These cool, refreshing fruit drinks have become really popular and are a hit among the young and old alike.

Putting a little time and consideration into choosing a gift can go a long way in sparing others the agony of opening a gift they have no idea what to do with. But if you’re short on time or ideas and you’re looking for gifts your friends and family will truly enjoy, the gift of food is the perfect solution.