The holiday season is a wonderful time for giving, and one of the most thoughtful ways to show you care is by creating a personalized gift basket. But instead of spending a fortune on brand-new items, why not add a unique, eco-friendly twist by crafting a beautiful holiday gift basket from treasures you can find at a Discovery Shop?
Whether you’re putting together a basket for a foodie, a cozy night in, or a holiday spa treat, you’ll discover how to mix and match thrifted finds for a memorable gift that won’t break the bank.
Steps to Create a Holiday Gift Basket
- Choose a Theme: Start by thinking about who you’re making the gift basket for and what they love. Is your recipient a coffee enthusiast? A book lover? A holiday home décor fanatic? Selecting a theme helps narrow down your search in the store.
- Pick Your Container: Instead of a traditional basket, consider using something unconventional, like a festive tin, a vintage suitcase, or a decorative bowl—Discovery Shops often have a variety of these items. The container itself can become part of the gift!
- Shop with Purpose: Once you have a theme and container, it’s time to hunt for the perfect second hand items to fill your basket. Be creative! Look for items that align with your theme and tie them together with decorative elements like ribbons, tissue paper, or ornaments.
Gift Basket Theme Ideas
Here are several fun and creative holiday gift basket themes that you can easily put together
1. The Cozy Night In Basket
Winter is the perfect time to relax at home with some comforting treats. Here’s how to build a "cozy night in" gift basket using your Discovery Shop finds:
- Soft Blanket or Throw: Find beautiful, gently-used blankets that are perfect for snuggling up.
- Books or DVDs: Discovery Shops are often full of interesting novels or classic films that your recipient can enjoy during a quiet night.
- Mugs & Hot Cocoa: Find a pair of charming, vintage mugs and pair them with gourmet hot cocoa or tea. Look for festive mugs that fit the holiday vibe!
- Candles: Scented candles are a must for creating a cozy atmosphere, and sometimes you can find new or barely-used options.
To top it off, add a small handwritten note or holiday card for a personal touch.
2. Gourmet Foodie Basket
For the food lover in your life, a foodie basket is both fun and practical. You can often find kitchenware and food-related items that can make this basket extra special.
- Serving Dishes or Cheese Boards: Look for unique serving trays or cheese boards to act as both a gift and the base for your basket.
- Cookbooks: Shop our book section and sometimes find a selection of cookbooks. Choose one based on the recipient’s taste—whether it’s international cuisine, holiday recipes, or baking.
- Wine Glasses or Tumblers: Add a set of mismatched, yet elegant, wine glasses or festive tumblers to go with a bottle of holiday cheer.
- Gourmet Food Items: While you may need to buy the food items elsewhere, consider pairing your finds with artisanal jams, crackers, chocolates, or spices to make the basket complete.
Add some tissue paper and ribbon for a luxurious look, and you’ll have a basket that’s perfect for any gourmet enthusiast!
3. The Holiday Entertainer’s Basket
Know someone who loves to host parties and holiday dinners? You can craft the perfect entertainer’s gift basket with Discovery Shop treasures.
- Festive Platter or Serving Bowl: Start with a stylish platter or bowl that can be used to serve holiday treats or display snacks.
- Barware: Look for cocktail shakers, wine openers, or festive glasses. These make a classy addition to the basket.
- Holiday-Themed Tableware: Search for holiday-themed plates, napkin sets, or vintage silverware. Pair these with holiday candles or napkin rings.
- Cookbooks or Recipe Cards: Throw in a classic cookbook, or even create personalized recipe cards for the recipient’s next dinner party.
Wrap it all together with some twine and attach an ornament to the outside for a festive finishing touch.
Tips for a Beautiful Gift Presentation
- Use Ribbon and Bows: To make your basket look festive, tie everything together with seasonal ribbons, bows, or ornaments.
- Add a Personal Touch: Include a handwritten holiday card or label each item with a little note that explains why you chose it.
- Creative Wrapping: For an eco-friendly option, consider wrapping your gift basket in a thrifted scarf or piece of fabric instead of disposable wrapping paper.
Creating a holiday gift basket from a Discovery Shop is a meaningful and sustainable way to show your loved ones you care. By selecting gently-used, high-quality items and assembling them with thought and creativity, you’ll not only create a memorable gift but also support our vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
So, the next time you’re stumped on what to give, skip the big box stores and head to your local Discovery Shop. You’ll find something unique, personal, and full of holiday spirit! Find a Discovery Shop close to you.