How to Make a Spa Relaxation Gift Basket

Everyone needs time to relax and rejuvenate, but most of us don't have the time or money to visit a spa. But we can enjoy spa-like treatments in the privacy of our own homes. You can easily put together a spa relaxation gift basket for yourself or to give as a gift. A spa relaxation gift basket would be the perfect gift for bridal showers, weddings, anniversaries, new moms, someone who has been ill or just got out of the hospital, or even a friend who is going through tough times.

How To Select a Container for a Spa Relaxation Gift Basket

The first step in building a Spa Relaxation Gift Basket is to select a container. It is not necessary to purchase an expensive or fancy container. In fact, the more money you save on the container, the more money you can spend on the contents. An ordinary basket will do but make sure it is sturdy and large enough to hold everything. Also, it would be great if it has a handle, but if not, tie a wide ribbon around the basket and use it as a temporary handle. A local thrift store can be a wonderful place to find a container or basket. There are usually dozens of great baskets in excellent condition at a thrift store. They usually have many different sizes and styles and often they cost $1.00 or less. It is important to sort through the stacks of baskets and other containers and make sure to choose one that is clean, odor-free and with no broken pieces. Once back at home, it is a good idea to

clean the basket or container with a cotton cloth and mild soap solution. Don't soak a wicker basket with water, just wipe it down with the solution and then let it dry. Of course, there are many other containers besides baskets that would be appropriate. Visit a local home improvement store and look in the gardening section. Consider a flowerpot, window flower container, or even a tin bucket. In the hardware section, check for canvas tool caddies or plastic tool chests. Discount stores and dollar stores are also good places to find suitable containers. Check other departments besides the health and beauty aisle for unusual containers. For example, a birdcage could be used to hold the spa gift items or a small laundry tote.

Spa Essentials to Include in a Spa Relaxation Gift Basket

1. Bath robe

2. Towel: 1 hand towel and a matching washcloth OR 1 bath towel

3. Body brush

4. Loofah

5. Exfoliating glove

6. Eye mask

7. Scented candle

8. Pumice stone and nail brush

9. Bath crystals

10. Facial Mask skin treatment

11. Bath Pouf with Shower Gel

12. Tea cup with teabags

13. Chocolate

14. Music CD with classical or mood music

15. Foot soak

16. Lotion

17. Massage oil or lotion

How to Assemble Spa Relaxation Gift Basket

Once all of the items that will go in the Spa Relaxation gift basket have been purchased, it is time to assemble them. Place tissue paper on the bottom of the basket or container as filler. Then roll up the towel(s) and place it vertically in the center of the container. Tie a ribbon or raffia string around the towel to keep it in place. Then place all the other items around the towel in a circle making sure they are tucked in and will stay in place. The whole basket or container can then be wrapped in plastic shrink wrap if desired, or cellophane. Another option is to simply tie a wide ribbon around the basket and tie in a bow. Try to make the gift basket items "flow" together in a central theme. For example, lavender is a calming fragrance. Use lavender scented body lotion and bath gel with a lavender colored towel. Add a second scent or flavor, such as lavender with chocolate, or orange with cinnamon. Color coordinate any accessories like bath sponges, towels, candles with the scents.

Fun Spa Gift Basket Themes

1. Asian Zen (massage oil, incense)

2. Dead Sea Salts Retreat

3. Healing Basket (cold care items, eucalyptus scent)

4. Organic Spa (use organic cotton towels, all natural items)

5. Teen Good Grooming gift basket (orientation into shaving, acne treatment, menstruation for boy or girl)

6. Facial Spa (only facial products)

7. Foot Spa (only food products, can be packed in a foot spa water massager (about $20 at discount stores)

8. Body Spa

9. Manicure or Pedicure basket

10. Kids Spa Bubble Bath basket (bubble bath, bathtub paints, fun shampoo,

fun toothbrush)