How to Make a Gift Basket for a Hostess

A small gift basket lets the hostess know you appreciate her.

Giving a hostess a gift basket is a lovely way to say thank you. By the end of the party or event, most hostesses are exhausted and in need of pampering and rest. Once the last bottle of wine is emptied and the dishes washed and put away, a little relaxation can help revive tired feet and aching muscles. Thoughtfulness on the part of the guests can go a long way in helping a worn out hostess feel appreciated.

Things You'll Need

• Basket
• Ribbon
• Small non-food gift items
• Small food gift items
• Shredded paper, tissue paper or other filler
• Thank-you card

Instructions

1. 

   Choose a basket that she can reuse for other purposes.

   Select a basket that is neither too small nor too large. Make sure it is adequate for the gifts you put in it. A large basket will look sparse if not filled. And a small basket will be top heavy with large items. Choose the basket accordingly. Consider how she might reuse the basket and choose one that fits her lifestyle. Baskets can be obtained inexpensively at thrift stores and refreshed with a coat of spray paint. Brighten the look by lining the basket with a hand towel or tissue paper.

2. 

   Small toiletry items are perfect gift items for a hostess basket.

   Choose small gifts that can fit easily into the basket. Food items should be small, such as single-serving coffees, teas, sparkling wine, nuts and chocolates. If your hostess has dietary restrictions, stick to non-food items such as candles, scented soaps and bath salts. If your hostess is a close friend, you might consider adding things that you know she would use, such as flower seeds for a gardener, a wooden spoon for a chef or a small bottle of her favorite fragrance.

3. 

   Ribbon twining down around the handle adds a special touch to your hostess gift basket.

   Place the largest item in first. Choose only one large item, with the smaller ones nestled in around the main one. Coordinate items with a color or theme. Fill any empty spaces with tissue paper, shredded paper or filler made specially for baskets. Add a festive ribbon on top. Little items can be attached with ribbon to the handle of the basket.

4. 

   A handwritten note adds a special touch to a hostess gift basket.

   Write a small note on the thank-you card. Tuck it into the basket. A handwritten note adds a meaningful touch to the hostess gift basket.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not leave items such as candles or chocolate sitting in a warm car in the sun. Gift baskets containing liquor or sharp items such as a cheese knife should be kept out of reach of children.

Resources

• Martha Stewart: Mother's Day Gift Baskets