What Are Gift Baskets?

Where Did the Basket Originate?

Since the beginning of mankind, man has woven grasses, straw, twigs and branches to create baskets. Early uses for the basket were to store dry goods and to transport food and materials. In biblical times, larger baskets were used for transporting people and goods on the water. Always a useful, sturdy container, it was a tool of man for tens of thousands of years.

The First American Gift Baskets

When the Mayflower landed on the shores of America, the European settlers were greeted with the first gift baskets. Dried fish and meats, corn, beans and other vegetables were presented to the settlers, by the American Indians, to welcome their arrival. In the 1700 and 1800's, individuals created baskets full of fruits, foods and candies for Christmas, Easter and other holidays. Today's gift baskets are crafted to the individual recipients tastes for holidays, special occasions or "just because" gift giving. Fruits, foods and candies now share space in gift baskets with "useable" items for the baby, the bath, the kitchen or for play. The baskets or boxes themselves are designed to be creatively used as well by the recipient once they've enjoyed the contents of the gift basket.

What to consider when buying a gift basket?

Baby Gift Baskets

These popular gift baskets provide the new parents clothing, towels, blankets, soap and shampoo for the new baby. The new arrival can expect to receive rattles, books and other baby items for them to play with.

Fruit Baskets

Always a great gift, these baskets are loaded with delicious apples, pears, other seasonal fruits and nuts. They are perfect for any occasion, and as people look to provide a healthy gift, these baskets are becoming more popular.

Gourmet Gift Baskets

The "old reliable" in gift baskets for years, these gifts traditionally have been filled with gourmet chocolates and nuts. More recently, these baskets are customized with gourmet coffee, tea and chocolate drinks; Italian foods stocked for entire dinner; sauces and rubs for the barbeque.

Corporate Gift Baskets

This gift basket category is becoming more popular with each passing year. Businesses send them to their clients to say "thank you" or to say "happy holidays". Many companies present them to their employees in recognition of a job well done, for anniversaries, for the arrival of new baby or for a holiday gift.

Birthday Gift Baskets

Here you will have a wide selection to choose from. In gift baskets for children, you will find a variety containing candy, toys, books and gift certificates. For the women, spa items, chocolates, candies, gardening items and her favorite beverage to relax with can be found. For the man, in addition to traditional candy and nuts, sports, cigar, cooking and barbeque gift baskets are crafted to meet his personal tastes and interests. Gift baskets provide numerous and unique ways to say "Happy Birthday".

Condolences Gift Baskets

When heartfelt sympathy is due, consider sending to the home of family or friends a condolences gift basket. Are you looking to send a whole meal? Or snacks and treats? Send them a gift to convey your sympathy and let them know that they are in your thoughts.

Gift Baskets for Her

You want to spoil her "just because of who she is". Look for a gift that she would truly enjoy. Aromatherapy, a spa gift, a mug of her favorite coffee or tea or gourmet chocolates are unique and "just for her". Reusable items such as candle holders, bath sponges, or a coffee mug make the gift a lasting memory.

Gift baskets For Him

What are your man's interests? A gift basket comes in many varieties. Does he barbeque or enjoy being a gourmet chef? A sports themed basket for football, baseball golf or fishing is appropriate. Or does he like to share a gourmet chocolate or food on a quiet evening? Treat his tastes with a gift especially for him.

Get Well Gift Baskets

Sometimes flowers or balloons just won't do. A soup meal, a game book, snacks or a mug of hot tea fits the bill. A gift basket sends your get well wishes in a unique way. For hospital deliveries, make sure your recipient is still a "guest".

Luxurious Spa Gift Baskets

Pamper that someone special with a spa at home. Bath gels, body lotions, loofahs, creams and even a gourmet snack or chocolate are a great idea. These gift baskets turn your home into their private spa retreat.

Sports Gift Baskets

Baseball, football, golf or fishing? What is their interest? Memorabilia, books, a tee or a creel are items that special someone will enjoy. Candy and/or snacks should be included with this gift. A gift with their interest in mind!

Wedding Gift Baskets

If you're looking for a unique wedding gift consider the gift basket. A time capsule or a picture frame to remember their special day. Commemorative champagne glasses and a gourmet treat will express your wishes. These are great gifts for family and friends alike.

Kids Gift Baskets

What do your kids like? Probably a sampling of gifts is the answer. Books and popcorn. Snacks and candy. Certificates and toys. "Can you make them happy? Yes you can!" Look for stuff they enjoy and that you feel good giving.

Housewarming Gift Baskets

Consider this gift if your relative or friend moves into their new home. If you are a real estate agent and you want to express your thanks to your client, think a gift basket as a unique housewarming gift. A meal, gourmet food or a unique, reusable basket says "Congratulations" to the new home owner.

Holiday Gift Baskets

Whether it's Christmas, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day or any other traditional holiday, give a gift that sends your wishes with the spirit, flavors and colors of the holiday. Personalize the gift with items that reflect the individual's interests and tastes to insure their enjoyment and to tell that that you really care.

Larry Flynn owns Ardent Partners Inc., a professional internet marketing firm in Mesquite, NV. The firms first website, http://www.GreatGiftBasket.com, offers a wide selection of unique, handmade gift baskets for all occasion's and ages. With the changing demographics in today's society, the gift basket is ideally suited to the internet and can be delivered anywhere in the United States.