- Gift baskets have become so specialized that they can be used for weddings, graduation parties and funerals. A parent or grandparent who has undergone surgery may get fruit and health food baskets from loved ones in lieu of flowers. Coworkers may collect money for an all-chocolate gift basket from Hershey to celebrate their colleague's promotion. Some businesses send gift baskets to loyal customers around Christmas and New Year's Eve in thanks for the past year's purchases.
- The foundation for a gift basket is the basket itself, typically lined with fake grass made of plastic or paper to protect sensitive items. Most baskets purchased online or through major retailers are made of plastic strands that cost less than wicker but look similar from a distance. After the contents of the gift basket are arranged, the gift giver can wrap the basket in cellophane. Cellophane is transparent and protects contents from minor bumps and collisions, especially important with fruits and hollow chocolates. The finishing touches on a gift basket include ribbons to bind the wrapping to the basket handle and a note to personalize the basket for the recipient.
- The primary consideration for gift baskets used for fundraising events is the potential profit of assembling baskets by hand. Schools, churches and non-profits that create their own baskets need to purchase packaging and gifts along with delivery costs that can make fundraising difficult. A good idea for annual fundraising campaigns is to work with a wholesaler like Gift Basket Supplies to cut per-basket costs. Gift givers who are considering what kind of baskets to give friends and family should think carefully about packaging used for perishable items. A gift box should be used for an all-fruit basket to protect the fruits from bruising, insects and prying hands.
- Gift baskets can be broken down into single brand, single product and seasonal varieties. A single-brand basket gathers an assortment of products from one company like Hershey or Hillshire Farms as a sampler for the recipient. Recipients who love nuts, chocolate and meats will enjoy single-product baskets, which collect multiple brands of the same product. Wine enthusiasts and fruit lovers will enjoy seasonal baskets that capture the colors, tastes and smells of their favorite times of the year.
- Athletic clubs and churches can use gift baskets to raise money while giving something back to their donors. The creation of a quarterly or annual basket drive can create a sense of community while supporting a good cause. Gift baskets also offer a life line to gift givers struggling to find the right present for their spouse or sibling. Businesses can benefit greatly from sending gift baskets to prospective and long-time clients at the end of the year. This personalized contact shows the recipient that the company is willing to go the extra mile for a client's needs.
