Food Baskets - Creative and Inexpensive Last Minute Gifts

Have you made your list and checked it twice and still forgotten someone's gift? If so, don't panic. Create a holiday gift basket with your gift recipient's favorite foods inside instead. Even if it's Christmas Eve and the only thing open is your local grocery store, you are still in luck. Many of them will have everything you need for a thoughtful-looking gift that doesn't cost a lot of money to make.

First, you need an idea for inspiration. What type of food does your gift recipient like? Are they a coffee connoisseur or a chocolate junky? Are they a health nut or do they love Mexican Food, Italian Food, French Cuisine, or Maybe Chinese Meals? Are they expecting a baby soon? Having a bit of an idea of your gift recipient's tastes is definitely helpful.

Next, you'll need a basket. It doesn't have to be a wicker one. Maybe you have a pretty metal bucket or a nice flower pot at your house which can be easily decorated to look really nice. Be creative in your selection and make sure it will be a good size for the type of contents you want to use to fill your basket.

Now you need to fill your basket. It is a good idea to have some sort of filler to put between items to give your basket more appeal. You may already have construction or computer paper at your house which can be cut with scissors or put through your straight cut shredder and fan folded (back and forth like you did when you were a kid) to make pretty filler.

Now you are ready to fill your basket with the goodies you have selected. Maybe you will do a variety basket with your recipient's favorite items. Maybe you will do several different types of the same item. Contents are up to you, but try to be creative and choose a wide variety of colors and shapes in your items. If you need tips on arranging your items, the grocery store's florist may be able to assist you if one is available. If not, maybe you have a creative friend or neighbor who can help.

Now it's time to finish up. Maybe you will choose to present your gift unwrapped as is, or maybe you will wrap it in clear cellophane or gift wrap. Presentation is up to you.