Gift Basket Themes, Ideas

Whether you want to give a gift basket for Christmas, birthdays, graduation or just because, these gift basket themes and ideas will make your gift memorable.

Girly Girl - Fill a makeup caddy or purse with makeup brushes, hair accessories, a nail file, finger nail clippers, nail polish and lip balm. You could also include eye makeup remover and eyelash curler. Stay away from giving foundation, lip stick or any other colored makeup unless this is your best friend and you know exactly what shades flatter her complexion.

Spring - Fill a gardening tote with seeds, bulbs, a kneeling pad, allergy medicine, a hat and sunglasses. Other fun suggestions: a beach towel and sunscreen for spring break!

Winter - Fill a basket with gloves or mittens, hot cocoa mix, a pretty mug, wool socks, long johns, and an ice scraper for their windshield. Hand warmers and an electric blanket would be nice additions to this basket.

Cooking - This is a great gift for a young person in their first apartment or a newlywed couple. Stuff a large mixing bowl with cookie cutters, a stainless steel whisk, measuring cups, fancy pasta, nuts, spices, and a great hand soap. Don't forget to include your favorite recipes or a good cookbook.

Reading - Of course, start with a great book. You could also include a dictionary, a pretty book mark, and a stamp that says, "This book belongs to _____." More options for a bibliophile include a gift card to a book store, tea or coffee, magazines and a chain for reading glasses. Put it all in a beautiful book tote or back pack.

Welcome Home - For a housewarming gift, fill a laundry hamper with energy efficient light bulbs, cleaning supplies, cleaning rags, trash bags, and a gift certificate to a nearby restaurant so that the recipient can order take out until they've unpacked their pots and pans. Perhaps some basic tools such as nails and a hammer, a screwdriver and a measuring tape would also be welcome.

Manly Man - Beer and tickets to a sporting event are sure bets. Razors and shaving cream are useful options. For another masculine gift, a pocket knife is handy. Zip ties or bungee cords are practical items to include. And Armor All car care products and a portable car battery jump starter are nice for the manly man who pampers his beloved car. Put everything in an ice chest or tool box.

Happy giving!