Assorted sizes of baskets, cellophane gift-wraps and ribbon are available at party supply stores.
While gift baskets are typically themed for adult enjoyment, many baskets that scrumptious treats are suitable for any age. The best gift baskets revolve around a central theme, such as relaxation or indulgence and include three items or more. Order pre-set gift baskets online, customize your order or create your own at home. If you are creating one at home, choose a fitting container and arrange it attractively.
Healthful Gourmet Treats
This basket is full of healthy and delicious treats with a range of flavors and textures to suit any craving. Pair fresh organic fruit such as pears, apples and oranges with granola, raw grains, vegetable chips, druid fruit and organic nuts. Other savory and healthful treats include dark chocolates, raspberry honey mustard dips or wild strawberry or blueberry spreads and whole grain crackers and pretzels. If you are creating this basket at home, fill the bottom of your basket with green crinkle shred to complement the health food theme.
International Epicurean Basket
The international epicurean basket includes a variety of imported gourmet items and is perfect for a foodie or wine connoisseur recipient. Fill the basket with a small selection of imported cheese, such as Spanish Manchego or Cabrales, Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano, French Brie or New Zealand Cheddar. Add assorted crackers and a bottle of imported wines from Argentina, Australia or France. Other international items can include Spanish olives, Mexican or South American salsas, Italian spaghetti sauces and chocolates.
Cocktail Supplies
This gift basket idea is a fitting gift for friends celebrating birthdays or an accomplishment. Cocktail baskets can include ingredients for Bloody Marys, margaritas, martinis and supplies for a straight glass of scotch or bourbon. Include treats such as hot pepper cheese rounds and celery, margarita salt and chips and salsa, regular or blue cheese stuffed green olives, smoked sausage and crackers and mixed nuts.
Relaxation Gifts
Relaxation themes gift baskets are full of calming and pampering items fitting for either a male or female recipient. For gender-neutral items add loofahs, wooden body rollers, toiletry totes and house shoes. Relaxation gift baskets can also include soothing scented body washes, aromatic candles or incense, coffees, teas and new mugs, poetry and other books and calming music.
Adult Congratulations
Adult congratulations gifts can include either a six-pack of mixed microbrew beers, wine, champagne, Scotch or other liquor and a pair of corresponding glassware. Select treats such as gourmet cheeses, crackers, truffles and mixed nuts to include as well. For a gift basket with non-edible items, coordinate a nice set of pens, engraved sterling silver picture frame, leather bound memo pads and gift certificates to favorite spas or retailers.
Thinking of You
Fill a "thinking of you" gift basket with the recipient's favorite items. Include flavored candies and chocolates, baked goods, recipe ingredients and packaged nuts and popcorn. Add gift certificates for music and movies, favorite restaurants, bookstores, coffeehouses and any other favorite retailer. Also incorporate a few personalized items, such as monogrammed robes or toiletry bags, framed photographs and candles and perfume or cologne in favorite scents.
