insideKENT Magazine Issue 128 - December 2022 | Seite 59

Step 3 : Choose Your Theme / Idea
Combine a whole heap of different recipients , all with different wants and needs , with a plethora of tempting Kentish eats , drinks , produce , gifts and experiences and the hamper possibilities are endless . But of course that becomes the main problem . So instead of getting waylaid with too many choices , set a theme for your hamper .
The obvious one here is of course : The Kentish Foodie , an idea all ready to be laden with non-perishable Kentish made jams , oils , chutneys , crisps , dips and more . Top Tipples is also a guaranteed crowd pleaser . From award-winning Kentish sparkling wine to seasonally inspired ales with a side order of artisan spirits , you can either easily go full-on drinks de rigueur .
TOP THEME PICKS 2022
• The Kentish Foodie - Opt for non-perishable produce with a long shelf life . You can be as specific - such as The Chocoholic - including options such as Goupie and Cocoba or the Cracker , laden with chutneys , preserves , crackers and cheese such as Kentish Oils and Opie ’ s range of Christmas-inspired fruits in alcohol . Or go bold and broad to include a tempting mix of sweet , savoury and drinks .
• Kent ’ s Top Tipples - Either stick to a one-drink theme - such as wine , ales or juice or mix and match to curate an ultimate drinker ’ s paradise .
• Colour Me Happy - Choose the recipient ’ s favourite colour or be inspired by your favourite decor trend and opt for gifts that fit that palette for a harmonious end product .
• Kent - A County of Discovery - Look for newly released product lines , ‘ just-for-Christmas ’ specials , locally handmade one-of-a-kind gifts and vouchers for new restaurants and attractions .
• Kentish Family Adventures - Encourage spending time together as a family with a mix of gifts that will delight young and old . A simple movie night box crammed with popcorn , pick ‘ n ’ mix , clapper board and vouchers for your local complex works well for mixed ages , while those with a higher budget can opt for a ‘ surprise envelope a month ’ type affair with each gift a voucher or annual pass allocated to a new Kentish day out to be enjoyed for each month of 2023 .
Step 4 : Choose Your Gift Hamper Items
Now that you have set your budget , decided upon your theme and picked your box , basket or more unique hamper vessel , it ’ s time for the best bit - choosing your gifts ! Within your theme find your hero product ( s ) - this could be a voucher for a day / night / meal out , a bottle of really delicious wine , or some tempting cheese and then begin to build the rest of your gift choices around this by looking at pairings and complementing produce e . g . crackers , chutneys and preserves , wine glasses , or animal biscuits to accompany a zoo pass for example . For foodbased hampers , a mix of savoury and sweet treats such as chocolate , fudge , baked goods , cakes , jams , preserves , wine , ales , juice , tea and coffee is always a great starting point .
Step 5 : Arranging Your Gift Hamper
Start by placing your largest and heaviest gifts in the back of your hamper . Always place shorter and smaller items in front , arranging them in a way that all gifts are visible . Pop gift vouchers in brightly coloured envelopes ( that tie in with any colour theme ) to ensure they stand out - especially when these are often the most expensive hamper addition . Use tissue paper or shred to help boost the height of any item that may not be quite as visible and to fill in any empty space .
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