A home business making gift baskets is a fun, simple way to make some extra money (see previous gift basket articles). The key is to make great baskets that are a good value for the price. The more custom your baskets are the better they will sell.
We talked about giving out gift baskets to family and friends as gifts for special occasions, which is a great way to get some word of mouth advertising. It doesn’t hurt to place a business card, or a slip of paper with your phone number inside each basket.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
Housewarming Baskets
1. A pretty basket that the recipient can keep and use around the house is the best way to start. Fill the basket with fun gadgets and perhaps a cheese board and knife. Add a bottle of sparkling cider, a pair of interesting wine glasses, and a corkscrew.
2. A nice wicker laundry basket will also make a great housewarming basket. Select a small size to fill with kitchen towels, dishcloths, and potholders. Add scrubbers, sponges, and some cute kitchen accessories. A larger size would work great for bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths. Embellish with decorative soaps, gels, and lotions.
Get Well Basket
Choose a narrow rectangular shaped basket for this idea. Place a mug in the center. It’s nice if you can find a mug with a cheery message or picture. Bunch up some tissue paper and place it so it’s peeking out of the mug. Flank the mug with attractive packages of flavored herbal tea. Behind these items, add crossword puzzle books, current copies of the recipient’s favorite magazines, or a couple of paperbacks to keep your sick friend entertained until he or she feels better. Accent with a few healthy treats, such as individually wrapped gourmet oatmeal cookies, and fill in smaller spaces with small packs of hard candy. Toss in a few pocket sized packets of tissue or a pretty hankie. Wrap, trim, and deliver!
*Check back later for more ideas.