Turn Your Easter Baskets into Unique Gifts

While Easter is considered a religious holiday, it is also celebrated by many as an expression of renewal and the arrival of spring. It is difficult to imagine Easter without the traditional Easter baskets filled with chocolate bunnies and jelly beans. However, now as we are becoming more health conscious, including for our children, we are beginning to realize that all that candy may not be such a good idea.

This year, why not make your Easter basket an expression of your creativity. Instead of the typical pastel basket and green Easter grass, which only ends up stored in the closet after a few days, why not make it something more practical and fun that can be used all year long. Choose containers that have a second purpose beyond a nest for that chocolate bunny, such as a wicker basket that can later hold books or magazines. Stationary stores now have great containers made of plastic, wire mesh and even canvas. Imagine what a fun and unique basket one of these would make. And later they can become organizers for small toys, mail or even guest towels in the bath.

While the traditional Easter candy is a great treat, a little can go a long way and it's nice to have some more enduring gifts that will last beyond the season. Think of all those things that you might put in a stocking at Christmas. The same will work in any Easter basket. Try adding a small gift wrapped in pastel tissue paper, such as an mp3 player, music cd or the latest video game. Add other less expensive items such as pens, pencils and note pads.

More than Chocolate and Jellybeans

Remember that girls love all sorts of jewelry, and hair accessories like ponytail bands and barrettes. Fill any girl's Easter basket with soaps, shampoos and other hair products, and don't forget things like lip gloss, shower gels and nail care products. Since Easter is celebration of spring, what a perfect time to give some new spring clothing. Small items like tee shirts, tank tops and shorts can be neatly rolled and tucked into a basket.

Adults love receiving an Easter basket as much as the kids do and it's easy to simply apply the same ideas. Start with a small box of fine chocolates and add some favorite things such as gourmet coffees or teas, elegant stationary, a movie or good book. Make a batch of your famous homemade cookies and include the recipe. Remember that phone cards or gift certificate is always a welcome addition.

Once you decide what to fill that Easter basket with, it's time to add the final touches. Use pastel or Easter print ribbon to wrap the handle or to simply add a pretty bow. Add some real or silk flowers as a nice touch. Tulips, daffodils and Irises always remind us of the arrival of spring.

When you think of an Easter basket simply think gift basket and you will get the idea. With a little imagination and creativity you can put together a great masterpiece, a beautiful Easter basket that keeps on giving long after those chocolate bunnies and marshmallow peeps are gone.