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There is a lot to do during the holiday season and even the best organized person can feel a little over the top. One great way to shorten that gift list is to give gift baskets. It is a unique solution because it can be a hit with casual recipients or close, personal friends. If you are new to this whole idea of gift baskets and want to take the short route, explore online shops that specialize in this. When you do this it's good to remember a few important things - order early! The other tip is just as important - avoid disappointment. If it's a vendor you are unfamiliar with, contact them to confirm that the basket will contain the items listed on their site. Be sure to confirm delivery date. Another smart tip is ask friends for recommendations.

If you are giving a holiday basket to a casual friend, food is always a good choice. To make it yourself or using commercial products, consider a basket that has a good selection of chocolates, gourmet cheeses and crackers. If the recipient doesn*t care for some of the items, they can always serve them at a party. Depending on your budget you could include gift certificates to a coffeehouse or pastry shop. Other items you might include could be a box of note cards or a small book of quotes. For close friends you probably have a good idea of what they would enjoy. Gourmet food items like fruits, chocolates and cheeses are all-time favorites. For holiday gift baskets, there is such an abundance of possibilities that it may be hard to choose.

Don*t overlook related gift possibilities when planning your gift basket. Put on your thinking cap and try to imagine the excitement you can create by including a few offbeat gift items as well. Such things like a ball cap with an inscription, or a pair of tickets to an event, or box of note cards that fit's the theme. If you are talented in the kitchen, homemade goods could be a good fit, mixed with exotic fruits, cheeses or sweets to give a well rounded theme. If you decide to included some of your own creations be sure they are nicely packaged. Putting together an assortment will ensure success.

It all comes together when you give it that final wrap of clear plastic. The nice thing is it doesn*t hide the effect you have worked hard to create and conforms well to irregular shapes. It also helps hold everything in place and preserve freshness. You see all those gifts lying there in a bed of raffia - a cornucopia of delight. It's a very exciting effect. For an added touch, at this final stage, you can try your hand at doing a double wrap of clear plastic and sprinkling confetti between the layers. And top it all off with a fancy bow and a few streamers of curly ribbon. Be sure to include a gift card that expresses your holiday best wishes. Make it even more heartfelt with a handmade card for your personal message.