Christmas is just around the corner, and money is tight. Now is the perfect time for gift giving to get creative. Gift baskets are an easy, affordable way to give a great gift to family and friends without breaking the bank. The baskets can be personalized to give to family members, or generalized as a thank you gift for people who provide services throughout the year.
The first thing to do is brainstorm with a recipient list. Figure out how many people will need gifts, and begin to decide which items will work for each person. For variety, use a combination of different types of items to fill the baskets.
Holiday Treats
Food is always a great gift to start a basket with. Some easy ideas include baked goods and cookies, chocolate covered nuts or pretzels, homemade caramel corn, peanut brittle, fresh fruit, or holiday candies. When giving homemade baked goods, it is a nice touch to include the recipe on a decorated card.
Personal Care Items
Decorative soaps, nail and hair care items can be packaged together for a great gift. Check the local beauty supply store for ideas. This is great idea for men, too, but be sure to pick appropriate scents and products.
Scented candles and incense are widely available and can usually be found at the dollar store. Try to choose a scent that you know someone likes, or go with a seasonal scent.
Framed Photos
The dollar store is also a great place to buy picture frames. A framed photo of the recipient's dog, cat, kids, or whatever it is that they love makes an excellent gift. Photocopy pictures on photo paper and cut to fit the size of the frame.
Ornaments
Include an ornament in each basket. They don't have to be expensive. The closer it gets to the holidays, ornaments will go on sale. If you enjoy making crafts, consider hand making them or adding a personal touch with glitter and paint to some plain ornaments. This is a nice keepsake that can be used year after year.
Gift Certificates
Rather than giving the typical gift certificates, make your own. Give a gift certificate of a homemade dinner, a night of babysitting, help cleaning the house, or whatever you thing your recipient might enjoy. Be creative, and share your skills!
Presentation is Everything
Check the craft store and the dollar store for affordable baskets. Craft cellophane and ribbon can be used to tie each basket. Holiday bags and tins are also make great containers.
Give with love! Remember that the holidays are about giving from the heart, and the care and thought put into a handmade gift far outweighs its monetary value
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