Benay's 3Gdelites Fall 2012 | Page 9

Discerning folks would just have to wonder-what is it about gift baskets that make them such a popular form of gift-giving today? What fun could there possibly be in receiving a gift without the requisite anticipation and suspense that comes from tearing open layers of wrapping paper before running smack into the actual present itself? For although gift baskets are nearly always prettily packaged, surely there is not much to be said for gift items that are so openly strutting their stuff for all and sundry to see!

Historically, baskets were woven using the most appropriate materials that could be sourced locally. Gatherers used baskets for collecting fruit and other food while the hunters made use of them to store their catch of the day. Perhaps this would explain the modern day use of baskets as gift bearers, particularly since gift baskets originally served the purpose of presenting organic gifts such as fruit, flowers and other types of perishables.

Another legend has it that the concept dates back to the Biblical account of three-month old baby Moses hidden among the reeds by the riverbank in a basket made of bulrushes. This theory could be one way of explaining the advent of baby gift baskets. And these in turn, have spawned various other types of gift baskets.

The history of gift baskets

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The history of gift baskets

It is not unusual to come across such baskets being offered for every possible contemporary holiday or event. Hence, we now have them as holiday gift baskets for Easter, Fathers' Day, Mothers' Day, baby showers, anniversaries and even sympathy baskets for those who have just lost a loved one. Truly, this industry now spans the plethora of occasions from womb to tomb!

Wine connoisseurs would appreciate the gift of a basket full of the best fruits of the vine. Lovers of fine food would surely think twice about turning up their noses at gourmet gift baskets brimming with de foie gras, caviar and orange blossom honey. Even if you are fond of a particular type of cuisine or food type, chances are, there is a gift basket for you. From Italian food products to junk food and cheesecakes, nothing is impossible these days. Seemingly everyday occasions can also call for different basket contents. Thus, you will find breakfast baskets, baskets for barbecues and even baskets holding a selection of designer teas and cookies.

Do note though that gift baskets need not necessarily contain edible products. Some are also made up of a combination of flowers and food while others could also contain books, toys, massage oils, toiletries, aromatherapy sets...in fact, everything and anything that fits into a basket!

Thank you corporate gift baskets usually come in handy for occasions where a token of appreciation is needed upon the successful completion of projects or when a deal is clinched. Top management have also been known to treat their staff to a basket or two of seasonal goodies, especially when holidays such as Christmas are around the corner.

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