Ideas for Gift Baskets

Whether a birthday, anniversary, holiday, or just because, at one time or another everyone needs to buy a gift. When uncertain what to buy, gift baskets are a staple choice. The beauty of gift baskets is their universal appeal and how both genders can enjoy them.

When it comes to gift basket giving, keeping it traditional is often better. Keeping it traditional and non-quirky is best because when you get too eclectic the recipient is often left with a bundle of goodies they can't even use.

So fuss and specialty aside, here are three traditional gift basket ideas that are sure to hit a homerun:

Candle Basket
It's hard to go wrong with candles. The soothing glow and refreshing aroma of a lit candle has cast a spell among consumers. In fact, according to USA Today, we spent more than $8.4 million dollars in 2005 on candles and home fragrances. That's a lot of wax. Mesmerizing, candles are indeed one of life's little luxuries and a top gift basket pick. One note of caution: gift basket retailers like to pair up candles with spa products and home décor. So, if you're looking for a candle-only basket, try visiting a candle shop such as Yankee Candle or Wicks n' Sticks.

Gourmet Gift Basket
The gourmet basket is the bread and butter of the gift basket industry. A basket such as this typically includes chocolates, cookies, cheese, crackers, hard candies, nut mixes and snacks presented in a beautiful wicker or reed basket. They come in various sizes, usually small to jumbo, and can range in price from thirty dollars to over a couple hundred dollars.

Fruit Basket
Who wouldn't want to receive a handsome wicker basket overflowing with luscious fruits such as Tangelos, Bartlett and Star Crimson pears, Fuji and Royal Gala apples, Bing cherries and more? Fruit excites the palate and warms the heart. And you can send a smorgasbord of premium fruit for under a hundred dollars.

If you're struggling to find the perfect gift or just plain lost for time, and you're willing to spend up to a hundred dollars, a traditional gift basket is the ideal solution.