How to Learn the Gift Basket Business

Many people buy gift baskets for specific holidays.

Gift baskets are commonly given for just about any occasion, from baby showers and graduations to retirement parties and get-well gifts. Because they are in demand and the cost of operating a gift basket business is relatively low, making and selling gift baskets can be quite lucrative. Before starting your own gift basket venture, there are several things you can do to learn about the gift basket industry first. Doing a bit of research and preparing yourself can help ensure the success of your business.

Instructions

1. Subscribe to a publication that is made for gift basket professionals, such as "Trends & Tips". Doing so will give you inside tips on industry trends, provide wholesale supply resources and show you examples of professionally made gift baskets.

2. Watch free online videos about the business, on sites such as YouTube, and read books about making and selling gift baskets. You can either purchase such books at your local bookstore or an online book retailer, or check to see if your local library has any available.

3. Participate on social networks and message boards that have groups just for those who make gift baskets, such as the Etsy forums and Craftster. Such groups can provide you with critiques of your baskets, offer business advice and connect you with others in the business.

4. Visit a craft show in your area; most craft shows have gift basket vendors. Ask those vendors if they wouldn't mind speaking to you about the industry, get their contact information and ask them about their business after the craft show. Avoid trying to hold long conversations with gift basket vendors during their show -- their focus during that time will be on customers, not helping you.

5. Join an association for gift basket professionals and suppliers, such as the National Specialty Gift Association. If you decide to ever start your own gift basket business, belonging to a professional association can not only give you credibility but client leads.

References

• "Entrepreneur"; How to Start a Gift Basket Service; February 22, 2001

Resources

• Trends & Tips Magazine
• National Specialty Gift Association