Gifts

When browsing amongst baskets the other day I came across a lot of the same baskets but finished in white and thought immediately how attractive they were and not only attractive but festive too. How nice to give a gift within a gift at Thanksgiving or Christmas and began to set my mind to their different uses. If you are visiting for Thanksgiving why not take a basket filled with the fruits of the season. You can decorate it with dried autumn leaves. If you are not able to get the real thing don't worry, artificial leaves can be better behaved, or why not choose a wonderful bronze ribbon? Cover the basket with cellophane and add an over sized bow. A lovely gift within a gift that everyone will appreciate.

A gift is always appreciated but one that has been custom made just for you is something special and appreciated even more. So, what are you good at? What can you contribute? Do you like to bake? Do you make fabulous cup cakes? Pack them up in a round basket, cover them again and there you are. Are you good at bread? Why not fill a basket with fresh bread and rolls still smelling of the oven. Or a cheesecake, one of those that you bake in the oven or even two. Everyone loves home baking! Packing a basket makes your home made gift look ultra fabulous. Smaller baskets are ideal containers for home made chocolates, always so much better than the store bought kind. Add ribbons and silk flowers to your cellophane covered basket for a very sumptuous looking gift.

But if baking is not your thing, why not try pickles or jam? You can go to a farmers market and buy in bulk which will cut down the price somewhat. Buy pretty jars and add a fancy label and tie a red ribbon under the lid. What about chutney? The same thing applies here, more than one type and make them attractive, pack them in a white basket with a large bow and see how they are appreciated. Whatever you can think of to make or give, your gifts will look better in wicker baskets, and once your gift has been enjoyed, the basket remains; a reminder of a good and lasting friendship.