CHRISTMASINKENT
CHRISTMAS HAMPER KNOW-HOW CONT .
QUINTESSENTIALLY CHRISTMAS HAMPER , £ 120 , FENWICK
Why a hamper ?
Christmas hampers are a long-standing tradition in British culture that dates back centuries . In the 11th century , hampers were filled with food , drinks and sometimes clothing and normally gifted as a charitable offering to poor or famished families . In the years since , the hamper has evolved into the glorious gesture of love and goodwill that we know today , and yes the main purpose has stayed the same - a generous offering of plentiful or useful gifts for our friends or family . Hampers are a delight to open at any occasion , and , although lovely , the real value isn ’ t in the contents , it ’ s in the wow factor on the day . Not only that , they really are the gift that keeps on giving because even when the hamper is empty of its goods , they ’ ll still be able to reuse the packaging for summer picnics or storage ; the possibilities are numerous .
Homemade hampers
Homemade Christmas hampers are the most thoughtful of gifts . When creating a hamper you have complete control over the theme , products and overall presentation meaning you can make it as personal as you ’ d like . But perhaps more significantly , you can tailor the hamper to suit a particular taste and to include things that you know the recipient will love ; their favourite chocolates , wine or beauty products , for example . Depending on how creative you are , you could even include homemade goodies , treats or gifts – you ’ ll feel pretty smug when you ’ re finished .
Readymade hampers
Everyone loves the thought of creating their own hamper , but it ’ s not always that easy . If you ’ re strapped for time or struggling for ideas , a readymade hamper could be the way forward . There are a plethora of hampers available on the market , from local-inspired foodie delights to exclusive Fortnum and Mason showstoppers that are sure to impress – there ’ s something for every taste and budget . Brandspecific hampers are great if you know the person is a fan of a particular brand , and some stores will offer the option to help with a create-your-own hamper . On the other hand , shop bought hampers are great for extended family , friends , clients or even colleagues - cases where you perhaps don ’ t know the recipient ' s personal tastes . It is always sensible to check dietary requirements and whether or not they drink alcohol ; it ’ d be no use giving a wine hamper to someone who ' s teetotal .
Creating the ultimate Christmas hamper
There isn ’ t really a right or wrong answer when it comes to creating your own hamper . One tip to consider throughout the process however is to always keep the tastes of the person you are buying for in mind . It can be very tempting to focus on the things that you would like yourself , which in turn will make it feel less personal . Try to pick out specific items that you remember them saying they like , or that you ’ ve taken note of . That being said , there are plenty of essential hamper items that are pretty much guaranteed to be a winner with anyone – chocolate for example ! Once you ’ ve thought about the recipient and their taste , consider a theme , sticking to ideas that will leave the hamper looking more considered and luxurious as it can start to look messy when things are just thrown together . Having a theme , be that in terms of flavour , colour or smell , will also narrow down your options making it easier to plan and visualise how the finished product will look . Take some inspiration from some of our favourite themed hamper ideas .
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