When it comes to giving gifts, there are hardly more popular gift ideas than gift baskets. Best Friend Gift. The ideal solution to those tricky gift problems that rear their ugly heads when you have to buy someone special an original gift. A birthday basket can be ideal for almost anyone about to celebrate another year.
When buying a gift basket, you're reaping loads of benefits. A good thing about them is the diverse range available. From comical themes like 'Screw Getting Older' to similarly insulting themes like 'Over the Hill'. You can literally find anything for anyone in a birthday gift basket. Whatever you're looking for, you're bound to find the ideal theme.
Another great feature of gift baskets is that they combine a few small presents rather than one larger present. Whilst the standard kitchen utensils or slippers might be nice once in a while, most people would agree that it is better to get loads of smaller presents to give them more to fiddle with later on! Also, gift baskets are usually gender neutral, so they can be perfect for those tricky birthday boys or girls, as well as being a unique and practical gift for just about anyone.
Everyone has to buy a gift for someone that is impossible to shop for. Whether it's a family member, or a particularly awkward friend, these are the people that take the pleasure out of shopping, particularly around about birthday time when you've already exhausted the gift vouchers option.
The answer is easy: buy them a gift basket. Gift baskets were just invented for those that are hard to buy for. Their adaptability is one of the greatest features of this type of gift. Best Friend Gift.
Although it may sound peculiar, they are very fun to select. They are colorful and pretty to look at, and can contain loads of different items which can be really exciting! If you are one of those people who hate all the hassle with tape and wrapping paper, you could do worse than to buy a birthday gift basket. And better yet, you won't have to wrap it and sometimes, you won't even have to write a card. Move over Martha Stewart and make way for the gift basket!
With all that stress in your daily life, it is so easy to forget about someone special's birthday. And when you get the chance to look and remember your aunt's birthday was last Tuesday, you're beginning to panic with thoughts of family crisis. However, by sending belated presents in the form of a gift basket, you won't have the stress and family shame accompanying your carelessness, whilst still sending a cool and fun present. Regardless of your circumstances, a gift basket is ideal for whatever gift need you have.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Are Gift Cards the Best Gift?
January’s retail sales strength is reflected in people redeeming their Christmas gift cards. The average adult received 3.2 gift cards this holiday season, up from 2.5 gift cards last year. Gift cards are more popular and this also moves spending into January. Consumers are also interested in receiving gift cards at other times that just at Christmas.
A survey by Deloitte & Touche USA found:
* 80% of adults received at least one gift card to an apparel or food store
* 33% received at least one gift card to a restaurant
* 14% received one gift card to a mall or shopping center
* 10% received a gift card that could be used at a variety of stores (e.g., an American Express gift card)
* 5% received at least one for a personal service such as a manicure or massage
* 5% received at least one gift card for an Internet site (e.g., ebay, Amazon)
Price ranges for gift cards ranged from $78 for an American Express card, while the lowest was for a $32 restaurant card. Bank gift cards are more likely to be used in January. Nearly 74% of these gift cards have been redeemed or partially redeemed by the end of January.
People were more likely to buy full price retail items with their gift cards. Many analysts believe the “gift” aspect allows consumers to treat themselves to new full-priced merchandise.
Retailers also benefit when consumers redeem a gift card, nearly 62% spend more than the face value of the card. This is an opportunity for retailers to increase sales, as sales cannot be reported until the gift card is redeemed.
Consumers also expressed an interest in receiving gift cards for other holidays. For example, a gift card for an “experience” is widely received as a result of people being time-pressed. Getting a gift card for a trip to a restaurant or massage or even a weekend getaway seems to be a trend people are enjoying.
Teens enjoy gift cards because they are more eager to shop with their friends and are more apt to redeem their cards quicker than adults. The survey showed teens redeemed 76% of their gift cards vs. 61% of adults.
Gift cards keep on giving, after the holidays, especially for retailers. Gift cards are here to stay. Consumers enjoy using them and retailers enjoy getting them. Gift cards are an appropriate gift for all occasions.
A survey by Deloitte & Touche USA found:
* 80% of adults received at least one gift card to an apparel or food store
* 33% received at least one gift card to a restaurant
* 14% received one gift card to a mall or shopping center
* 10% received a gift card that could be used at a variety of stores (e.g., an American Express gift card)
* 5% received at least one for a personal service such as a manicure or massage
* 5% received at least one gift card for an Internet site (e.g., ebay, Amazon)
Price ranges for gift cards ranged from $78 for an American Express card, while the lowest was for a $32 restaurant card. Bank gift cards are more likely to be used in January. Nearly 74% of these gift cards have been redeemed or partially redeemed by the end of January.
People were more likely to buy full price retail items with their gift cards. Many analysts believe the “gift” aspect allows consumers to treat themselves to new full-priced merchandise.
Retailers also benefit when consumers redeem a gift card, nearly 62% spend more than the face value of the card. This is an opportunity for retailers to increase sales, as sales cannot be reported until the gift card is redeemed.
Consumers also expressed an interest in receiving gift cards for other holidays. For example, a gift card for an “experience” is widely received as a result of people being time-pressed. Getting a gift card for a trip to a restaurant or massage or even a weekend getaway seems to be a trend people are enjoying.
Teens enjoy gift cards because they are more eager to shop with their friends and are more apt to redeem their cards quicker than adults. The survey showed teens redeemed 76% of their gift cards vs. 61% of adults.
Gift cards keep on giving, after the holidays, especially for retailers. Gift cards are here to stay. Consumers enjoy using them and retailers enjoy getting them. Gift cards are an appropriate gift for all occasions.
Baby Gift Basket
Baby showers are one of the most delightful events to attend with the fun and often silly games as well as a wide assortment of adorable baby items given as gifts. Many times a mother-to-be will have registered at a few stores so that guests at her baby shower or well-wishers can present the new parents with a gift that is needed or desired. Other times expecting moms might not request any gifts but most everyone will buy her something that will come in handy with a new baby.
Most of us have waited until the last minute to buy a baby gift and find that the list of items requested by the new mom are either already purchased by another person or far too expensive to consider. Sometimes we just want to be the one to give a unique gift that will be put to use with a new baby but isn’t quite expected. Another possibility is that some people don’t have a great deal of money to spend on a shower gift and don’t want to look as if they are simply cheap. Even if a person is just looking for a unique baby shower gift that no one else is probably giving the new mom, one of the best gifts to give is a baby gift basket.
If a person wishes to put together their own baby gift basket, the best way to begin is to find a useful container in which to put the gifts and present to the new mom. Although the gift will be referred to as a baby gift basket, the container does not literally have to be a basket. Many people have gotten creative by filling a baby diaper pail or a baby bath tub with baby items and then presented it as a baby gift basket. For a smaller yet equally effective baby gift basket to fill, bathroom caddies or small containers that can hold cotton balls or q-tips work very well.
Some individuals like to stay with a theme when giving a baby gift basket like bath items, safety kits or bedtime items. Other times a selection of a variety of items that don’t really have any kind of connection other than the fact that they can be used with a new baby make a great presentation in a baby gift basket. Some items that can be considered for a baby gift basket can include soap, wash cloths, an infant thermometer, baby finger nail clippers, diaper rash lotion, bottles, bibs, body lotion, Onsies, baby books and much more.
Another option when deciding to give a baby gift basket for a baby shower or even after a baby is born is to have a professional baby gift basket prepared. Just like a home-prepared baby gift basket, a profession baby gift basket can be prepared according to a particular theme or with an assortment of specially selected baby items. Gift basket creation stores are popping up all around large cities and small towns where a person can simply walk in off the street and select a pre-made baby gift basket.
A person can also order a baby gift basket by shopping online. The benefits of shopping for a baby gift basket online include being able to view the kinds of gift baskets that are available as well as having the option to select specific items that should be included in a gift basket. When ordering a baby gift basket, the basket can be delivered to the giver or the recipient depending on the situation. However a baby gift basket is presented to a new mom, she is sure to be delighted as she discovers each item in the basket.
Most of us have waited until the last minute to buy a baby gift and find that the list of items requested by the new mom are either already purchased by another person or far too expensive to consider. Sometimes we just want to be the one to give a unique gift that will be put to use with a new baby but isn’t quite expected. Another possibility is that some people don’t have a great deal of money to spend on a shower gift and don’t want to look as if they are simply cheap. Even if a person is just looking for a unique baby shower gift that no one else is probably giving the new mom, one of the best gifts to give is a baby gift basket.
If a person wishes to put together their own baby gift basket, the best way to begin is to find a useful container in which to put the gifts and present to the new mom. Although the gift will be referred to as a baby gift basket, the container does not literally have to be a basket. Many people have gotten creative by filling a baby diaper pail or a baby bath tub with baby items and then presented it as a baby gift basket. For a smaller yet equally effective baby gift basket to fill, bathroom caddies or small containers that can hold cotton balls or q-tips work very well.
Some individuals like to stay with a theme when giving a baby gift basket like bath items, safety kits or bedtime items. Other times a selection of a variety of items that don’t really have any kind of connection other than the fact that they can be used with a new baby make a great presentation in a baby gift basket. Some items that can be considered for a baby gift basket can include soap, wash cloths, an infant thermometer, baby finger nail clippers, diaper rash lotion, bottles, bibs, body lotion, Onsies, baby books and much more.
Another option when deciding to give a baby gift basket for a baby shower or even after a baby is born is to have a professional baby gift basket prepared. Just like a home-prepared baby gift basket, a profession baby gift basket can be prepared according to a particular theme or with an assortment of specially selected baby items. Gift basket creation stores are popping up all around large cities and small towns where a person can simply walk in off the street and select a pre-made baby gift basket.
A person can also order a baby gift basket by shopping online. The benefits of shopping for a baby gift basket online include being able to view the kinds of gift baskets that are available as well as having the option to select specific items that should be included in a gift basket. When ordering a baby gift basket, the basket can be delivered to the giver or the recipient depending on the situation. However a baby gift basket is presented to a new mom, she is sure to be delighted as she discovers each item in the basket.
Yearly Guide To Anniversary Gift Giving
Is your anniversary here again? Don’t know what to buy your better half? Maybe the anniversary gift guide can help. The guide has been updated with a few gift ideas to make your shopping a little easier.
1st Anniversary- The first anniversary is the year of paper. Paper gifts are not as boring as one may think. It can be as simple as a handwritten poem or as lavish as an airline ticket.
2nd Anniversary – The second anniversary is cotton. A good cotton gift is clothing. Personalizing it makes it even more special. Nowadays you can personalize just about anything.
3rd Anniversary- The third anniversary gift is leather. Wallets and purses are nice leather gifts. There are also tins of leather items that can be personalized as well. (Ex. Personalized leather bracelets or briefcases)
4th Anniversary- Linen is the fourth anniversary gift. Linen gifts include table linens and vacation linen shirts also known as Guayaberas.
5th Anniversary- Wood is fifth anniversary gift. Gift ideas range from gift baskets to furniture.
6th Anniversary- The sixth anniversary is iron. Iron gifts include candleholders and picture frames.
7th Anniversary- Depending on who you ask, the seven year anniversary is either copper or wool. Cooper gifts include vases and bowls. Wool gifts include sweaters and scarves.
8th Anniversary- Bronze is the eighth anniversary gift. Bronze gifts can be anything from a candleholder or vase to a trinket or memorable keepsake being bronzed.
9th Anniversary- Pottery is the ninth anniversary. Sculptures, vases and bowls are the most common of these gifts. A great gift idea would be to enjoy a pottery class together.
10th Anniversary- Tin or Aluminum is the gifts for 10 years of bliss. Jewelry boxes or tin gift containers filled with goodies make great tin/aluminum gifts. Gift basket containers would be a great to incorporate tin or aluminum.
11th Anniversary- Eleven years of marriage equal a gift of Steel. Gifts can be anything from a stainless steel watch or pendant to stainless kitchen appliances.
12th Anniversary- Silk is the twelfth anniversary gift. Silk pajamas and sheets are a wonderful gift. Robes and clothing are also great.
13th Anniversary- The thirteenth anniversary is that of Lace. This anniversary gift’s element is more for the ladies. Lace table linens, hankies and nightgowns are wonderful gifts of lace.
14th Anniversary- Ivory is the gift fourteen years of marriage. Imagination is important for this gift giving year. An ivory broche is a worldly gift for your wife and if your husband is open to anything, try an ivory elephant tusk. Not likely huh? How about Ivory soap? At least I tried.
15th Anniversary – Fifteen years of wedded bliss earn you Crystal. Swarovski Crystals set in a pendant, watch or other piece of jewelry is a nice idea. For the simple folk, a crystal vase or personalized champagne flutes add that touch of romance.
20th Anniversary- Twentieth Anniversary is the gift of China. That is pretty self explanatory.
25th Anniversary- Twenty five years of marriage is also known as The Silver Anniversary. Silver jewelry or nice jewelry boxes are always safe bets.
30th Anniversary- Pearl is the gift of a thirty year anniversary. Pearls can be given as a necklace or placed in a ring.
35th Anniversary- Coral or Jade is the gifts for this anniversary. You can find coral gifts such as vases, sculptures, trays or games made or coral. Jade gifts are usually jewelry like bracelets and earrings.
40th Anniversary- The fortieth year anniversary gift is Ruby. Like many of the gifts, jewelry is a good gift.
45th Anniversary- Sapphires represent forty years of marriage. Jewelry
50th Anniversary- The Golden Anniversary is among one of the well known. Gold gifts can be anything from jewelry to golden vases, cups, frames, figurines and other trinkets.
55th Anniversary- Emeralds are the gifts of this year. Jewelry is a common gift.
60th Anniversary- Sixty years of being married most certainly deserves Diamonds. What could be better than diamond jewelry?
65th Anniversary- Blue Sapphires are the gifts of this year. Once again jewelry is appropriate…it’s deserved!
70th Anniversary- Platinum gifts are representative of seventy platinum years of marriage. Platinum gifts include jewelry, music boxes, figurines and gift boxes.
75th Anniversary- Once again Diamond is the gift of choice. After seventy five years of marriage, it is most certainly deserving. Best gift…Jewelry!
80th Anniversary- Oak represents eighty years of marriage. If you have been married eighty years than you marriage is stronger than oak. Nevertheless a fantastic oak gift is Oak Home! If you can’t afford it, there are tons of handmade oak gifts such as furniture, wall shelves and many more.
1st Anniversary- The first anniversary is the year of paper. Paper gifts are not as boring as one may think. It can be as simple as a handwritten poem or as lavish as an airline ticket.
2nd Anniversary – The second anniversary is cotton. A good cotton gift is clothing. Personalizing it makes it even more special. Nowadays you can personalize just about anything.
3rd Anniversary- The third anniversary gift is leather. Wallets and purses are nice leather gifts. There are also tins of leather items that can be personalized as well. (Ex. Personalized leather bracelets or briefcases)
4th Anniversary- Linen is the fourth anniversary gift. Linen gifts include table linens and vacation linen shirts also known as Guayaberas.
5th Anniversary- Wood is fifth anniversary gift. Gift ideas range from gift baskets to furniture.
6th Anniversary- The sixth anniversary is iron. Iron gifts include candleholders and picture frames.
7th Anniversary- Depending on who you ask, the seven year anniversary is either copper or wool. Cooper gifts include vases and bowls. Wool gifts include sweaters and scarves.
8th Anniversary- Bronze is the eighth anniversary gift. Bronze gifts can be anything from a candleholder or vase to a trinket or memorable keepsake being bronzed.
9th Anniversary- Pottery is the ninth anniversary. Sculptures, vases and bowls are the most common of these gifts. A great gift idea would be to enjoy a pottery class together.
10th Anniversary- Tin or Aluminum is the gifts for 10 years of bliss. Jewelry boxes or tin gift containers filled with goodies make great tin/aluminum gifts. Gift basket containers would be a great to incorporate tin or aluminum.
11th Anniversary- Eleven years of marriage equal a gift of Steel. Gifts can be anything from a stainless steel watch or pendant to stainless kitchen appliances.
12th Anniversary- Silk is the twelfth anniversary gift. Silk pajamas and sheets are a wonderful gift. Robes and clothing are also great.
13th Anniversary- The thirteenth anniversary is that of Lace. This anniversary gift’s element is more for the ladies. Lace table linens, hankies and nightgowns are wonderful gifts of lace.
14th Anniversary- Ivory is the gift fourteen years of marriage. Imagination is important for this gift giving year. An ivory broche is a worldly gift for your wife and if your husband is open to anything, try an ivory elephant tusk. Not likely huh? How about Ivory soap? At least I tried.
15th Anniversary – Fifteen years of wedded bliss earn you Crystal. Swarovski Crystals set in a pendant, watch or other piece of jewelry is a nice idea. For the simple folk, a crystal vase or personalized champagne flutes add that touch of romance.
20th Anniversary- Twentieth Anniversary is the gift of China. That is pretty self explanatory.
25th Anniversary- Twenty five years of marriage is also known as The Silver Anniversary. Silver jewelry or nice jewelry boxes are always safe bets.
30th Anniversary- Pearl is the gift of a thirty year anniversary. Pearls can be given as a necklace or placed in a ring.
35th Anniversary- Coral or Jade is the gifts for this anniversary. You can find coral gifts such as vases, sculptures, trays or games made or coral. Jade gifts are usually jewelry like bracelets and earrings.
40th Anniversary- The fortieth year anniversary gift is Ruby. Like many of the gifts, jewelry is a good gift.
45th Anniversary- Sapphires represent forty years of marriage. Jewelry
50th Anniversary- The Golden Anniversary is among one of the well known. Gold gifts can be anything from jewelry to golden vases, cups, frames, figurines and other trinkets.
55th Anniversary- Emeralds are the gifts of this year. Jewelry is a common gift.
60th Anniversary- Sixty years of being married most certainly deserves Diamonds. What could be better than diamond jewelry?
65th Anniversary- Blue Sapphires are the gifts of this year. Once again jewelry is appropriate…it’s deserved!
70th Anniversary- Platinum gifts are representative of seventy platinum years of marriage. Platinum gifts include jewelry, music boxes, figurines and gift boxes.
75th Anniversary- Once again Diamond is the gift of choice. After seventy five years of marriage, it is most certainly deserving. Best gift…Jewelry!
80th Anniversary- Oak represents eighty years of marriage. If you have been married eighty years than you marriage is stronger than oak. Nevertheless a fantastic oak gift is Oak Home! If you can’t afford it, there are tons of handmade oak gifts such as furniture, wall shelves and many more.
A Gift Basket Business the "Punkin" Way!
No doubt about it! There is a dramatic increase in home-based businesses over the last decade!
Why? Self-Independence? High cost of daycare?
Or, maybe we just want to truly be in charge of the direction of our lives.
Many people are trading in their corporate hats and venturing into the small home based business world.
SBtrends2000.com reports "...currently about 50% of the 10 million (primarily) self-employed are home-based; thus, there are already about 5 million home based businesses...Home-based businesses will continue to increase...Much of the increase, however, may be "secondary self-employment businesses rather than home-based businesses relied upon for primary income..."
Jennifer Powell, owner of Punkin's Gift Baskets and Boxes, is no stranger to working at home. She telecommuted for a NJ company as a government mortgage processor.
How did she end up starting her present business?
"...My partner moved his business here, from NJ & took a building with extra space & asked me if I wanted to use the space for a business. So, I opened a gift shop business in the fall of '99. I also started an online gift store at the same time. I don't really know how it happened. I just kind of fell into it (mistake #1).
When interest rates were on the rise in mid-99 I was laid off, within two months of moving. My income was immediately reduced by two-thirds. Mortgage processors in my area make only 25 to 35% of what I earned. So I decided to take my chances & threw myself into the gift business full-time. The name of the business is Punkin's Gift Baskets & Boxes. (Punkin is my nickname.)"
Why a gift basket business?
"I have always liked coming up with "the right gift". Christmas is my favorite time of year & I'm the one, of 4 sisters, who can really wrap a gift. I like the creativity of it, combining ribbon & paper; patterns & color. I offered free gift-wrapping in the gift shop, year-round just because I like to wrap gifts. The gift baskets kind of grew out of that. For example: you have a friend
who likes teddy bears. So you look for a teddy bear address book & maybe a pen. I just took that a step further & combined an address book, blank journal, pen note cards & coordinating envelopes and a porcelain hinged box all in a teddy bear motif & pre-wrapped it. I thought, "Hey, this is fun! I'll be up & going in no time."
Facing challenges and obstacles in the beginning, Jennifer tells us:
"It was a "learn as you go" situation. I didn't have the time to do proper research on the demographics of the area or the industry in general (mistake #2).
I no longer had the income to fund this adventure so each mistake, they are unavoidable, was costly. I didn't know how to price a basket, didn't know what made them stay together, how to shrink wrap, etc." Researching a small business idea is essential!
"The most important thing anyone who wants to start a gift basket business can do is RESEARCH! Learn everything you can (while you still have another job). Go into stores & look at their gift baskets not only the price & products but also the mechanics of it. Use the web to see what's out there. Learn to make a hand-tied bow. Go to the Library & check out books or industry periodicals.
The biggest obstacle in any gift business is competition. There are tons of places to buy gifts: card & gift stores, online shopping, chain stores, drugstores, etc. You need to set yourself apart somehow. Whether it is hand delivery to the local hospitals or some specialty item or niche product. People need a reason not to just go to Wal-Mart & get a gift."
A niche like Jennifer's "house" boxes! Realtors purchase these to give to their clients for housewarming or thank you gifts. How did she find this market for her business?
"The idea for the "house" boxes for Realtors came from a real estate industry magazine article that mentioned "closing gifts." My mother has been in real estate all my life & I asked her about it & she said that it was a fairly new practice. I made up a few different designs & printed a brochure that I left in her office. I received a few orders & some feedback on the designs, made some changes & now I have a few boxes on display in her office and a link on her website."
Can you start a GB business for under $100?
"I don't think so. With a well thought out plan you could probably start out for under $250. A quality heat gun, roll of shrink wrap, 2 rolls of wired ribbon, heavy duty tape & a turntable are going to use up your first $100."
How do you determine the price of your baskets?
"There are different methods of pricing. Some use a mark-up percentage of the combined cost of the basket, products & filler. Others add a flat fee for the labor to construct the basket. I use a hybrid system depending on the client & the gift."
Why? Self-Independence? High cost of daycare?
Or, maybe we just want to truly be in charge of the direction of our lives.
Many people are trading in their corporate hats and venturing into the small home based business world.
SBtrends2000.com reports "...currently about 50% of the 10 million (primarily) self-employed are home-based; thus, there are already about 5 million home based businesses...Home-based businesses will continue to increase...Much of the increase, however, may be "secondary self-employment businesses rather than home-based businesses relied upon for primary income..."
Jennifer Powell, owner of Punkin's Gift Baskets and Boxes, is no stranger to working at home. She telecommuted for a NJ company as a government mortgage processor.
How did she end up starting her present business?
"...My partner moved his business here, from NJ & took a building with extra space & asked me if I wanted to use the space for a business. So, I opened a gift shop business in the fall of '99. I also started an online gift store at the same time. I don't really know how it happened. I just kind of fell into it (mistake #1).
When interest rates were on the rise in mid-99 I was laid off, within two months of moving. My income was immediately reduced by two-thirds. Mortgage processors in my area make only 25 to 35% of what I earned. So I decided to take my chances & threw myself into the gift business full-time. The name of the business is Punkin's Gift Baskets & Boxes. (Punkin is my nickname.)"
Why a gift basket business?
"I have always liked coming up with "the right gift". Christmas is my favorite time of year & I'm the one, of 4 sisters, who can really wrap a gift. I like the creativity of it, combining ribbon & paper; patterns & color. I offered free gift-wrapping in the gift shop, year-round just because I like to wrap gifts. The gift baskets kind of grew out of that. For example: you have a friend
who likes teddy bears. So you look for a teddy bear address book & maybe a pen. I just took that a step further & combined an address book, blank journal, pen note cards & coordinating envelopes and a porcelain hinged box all in a teddy bear motif & pre-wrapped it. I thought, "Hey, this is fun! I'll be up & going in no time."
Facing challenges and obstacles in the beginning, Jennifer tells us:
"It was a "learn as you go" situation. I didn't have the time to do proper research on the demographics of the area or the industry in general (mistake #2).
I no longer had the income to fund this adventure so each mistake, they are unavoidable, was costly. I didn't know how to price a basket, didn't know what made them stay together, how to shrink wrap, etc." Researching a small business idea is essential!
"The most important thing anyone who wants to start a gift basket business can do is RESEARCH! Learn everything you can (while you still have another job). Go into stores & look at their gift baskets not only the price & products but also the mechanics of it. Use the web to see what's out there. Learn to make a hand-tied bow. Go to the Library & check out books or industry periodicals.
The biggest obstacle in any gift business is competition. There are tons of places to buy gifts: card & gift stores, online shopping, chain stores, drugstores, etc. You need to set yourself apart somehow. Whether it is hand delivery to the local hospitals or some specialty item or niche product. People need a reason not to just go to Wal-Mart & get a gift."
A niche like Jennifer's "house" boxes! Realtors purchase these to give to their clients for housewarming or thank you gifts. How did she find this market for her business?
"The idea for the "house" boxes for Realtors came from a real estate industry magazine article that mentioned "closing gifts." My mother has been in real estate all my life & I asked her about it & she said that it was a fairly new practice. I made up a few different designs & printed a brochure that I left in her office. I received a few orders & some feedback on the designs, made some changes & now I have a few boxes on display in her office and a link on her website."
Can you start a GB business for under $100?
"I don't think so. With a well thought out plan you could probably start out for under $250. A quality heat gun, roll of shrink wrap, 2 rolls of wired ribbon, heavy duty tape & a turntable are going to use up your first $100."
How do you determine the price of your baskets?
"There are different methods of pricing. Some use a mark-up percentage of the combined cost of the basket, products & filler. Others add a flat fee for the labor to construct the basket. I use a hybrid system depending on the client & the gift."
Romantic Dating Gift Ideas
For people who are dating, choosing a gift for their significant other can be a bit of a challenge. This is because getting a gift for a Boyfriend or a Girlfriend involves striking a balance between finding the perfect gift that represents your true feelings and making sure that you do not appear overly intimate or overbearing. This is very important because as you get to know each other better, the kind of gift you give on special occasions can say a lot about you.
With this in mind, you may need to consider some of the “safer” choices with regard to gifts, allowing you to express your feelings without making it look like you are trying too hard or have something else in mind. To help you do so, below are some gift ideas that have been tried and tested over the years.
If you have just gotten together with your girlfriend or your boyfriend and an anniversary is coming up, like the anniversary of your first kiss, there are some gift options that would be appropriate to the kind of relationship you have. One of the best gift ideas is a book of your partner’s favorite author. This can be a good way of saying that you are aware of his or her interests. Other very good gift ideas include CDs of your partner’s favorite artist or DVDs of your partner’s favorite movie. In addition to these, buying concert tickets and sporting tickets to your partner’s favorite artist or sporting event are some other good options. These gift ideas allow you to show that you really listen to what your partner says and that you care enough to buy them things that you know they will enjoy.
However, the fact that you are only dating does not mean that you have to wait until you get married to give more intimate gifts. This is because, as the relationship grows and you become more intimate, you can consider giving your boyfriend or your girlfriend more intimate gifts. Some of these include lingerie or vacations to romantic getaways like the Bahamas.
In buying gifts for the person you are dating, there are a number of things you should consider apart from what you think your partner would like. This is because the gift you pick should also be appropriate to the intimacy level of your relationship. However, considering some “tried and tested” gift ideas can be a very good idea because most of them can accurately express your feelings for your partner.
I am a webmaster of http://www.giftsronline.com, and publishing article for the various article sites, feel free to visit http://www.giftsronline.com for more information on gift, dating and other online gifts.
With this in mind, you may need to consider some of the “safer” choices with regard to gifts, allowing you to express your feelings without making it look like you are trying too hard or have something else in mind. To help you do so, below are some gift ideas that have been tried and tested over the years.
If you have just gotten together with your girlfriend or your boyfriend and an anniversary is coming up, like the anniversary of your first kiss, there are some gift options that would be appropriate to the kind of relationship you have. One of the best gift ideas is a book of your partner’s favorite author. This can be a good way of saying that you are aware of his or her interests. Other very good gift ideas include CDs of your partner’s favorite artist or DVDs of your partner’s favorite movie. In addition to these, buying concert tickets and sporting tickets to your partner’s favorite artist or sporting event are some other good options. These gift ideas allow you to show that you really listen to what your partner says and that you care enough to buy them things that you know they will enjoy.
However, the fact that you are only dating does not mean that you have to wait until you get married to give more intimate gifts. This is because, as the relationship grows and you become more intimate, you can consider giving your boyfriend or your girlfriend more intimate gifts. Some of these include lingerie or vacations to romantic getaways like the Bahamas.
In buying gifts for the person you are dating, there are a number of things you should consider apart from what you think your partner would like. This is because the gift you pick should also be appropriate to the intimacy level of your relationship. However, considering some “tried and tested” gift ideas can be a very good idea because most of them can accurately express your feelings for your partner.
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Experience Day gift at find-me-a-gift
Experience Day Vouchers are the ideal gift for the person that has everything and make a unique gift. Ever stuck for that perfect gift or present? Maybe the gift experience voucher is the answer and www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk have an amazing choice of experience days.
Listed below are just a few to give you a taste of the gift experience day’s find-me-a-gift.co.uk sell.
Introduction to Racing Driving - From the moment you climb into a single-seater racing car, you are in for some unbelievable excitement. The starter waves his flag, you pump the accelerator, the engine roars and you're off. In moments you’re taking the corners and barrelling along the straights of a famous British racetrack.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/introduction-to-racing-driving.html
Pamper Day With Three Treatments For Two - Treat yourself and a friend to 3 treatments each including a 30 minute facial, 30 minute massage and a express eyebrow shape or nail file and polish and feel healthy, fit and relaxed at the adjoining health and fitness club.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/pamper-day-with-three-treatments-for-two.html
Indoor Skydiving - Imagine a wind tunnel that could be used for testing the aerodynamics of an F1 racing car, turn it upright, jump onto the airflow and you are skydiving. It's a proven concept operating in several countries to the benefit of the skydiving community and anyone else who wishes to taste the thrill of freefall in a completely safe environment.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/indoor-skydiving.html
Hydro Zorbing For Two - Expect to get very wet! Hydro zorbing is a totally different experience from harness zorbing as you do not rotate with the zorb, but instead 25 litres (2 buckets) of water (cold or warm) are added inside, and you slide from side to side and forwards and backwards while the zorb revolves around you, gaining speed with every revolution. The sensation has been described as a cross between a roller coaster and a waterfall! The hydro zorb run is approximately 200m long.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/hydro-zorbing-for-two.html
Hot Air Balloon Flight - Nothing quite compares to the serenity of ballooning. Gaze down over the fields, hedgerows and villages, dappled in soft evening sunlight or tranquil early morning light. Bask in the magical silence as you float high above the ground and then drop low enough to skim the hedgerows and treetops. It's a perfect way to take fabulous pictures - and a treat to remember for many years.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/hot-air-balloon-flight-uk.html
Wine Tasting Experience For Two - You'll be amazed at the skill, effort and experience it takes to produce a quality wine. Enjoy a tour of an English vineyard and take home a complimentary bottle of wine per couple to drink at your leisure.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/men/wine-tasting-experience-for-two.html
Pop Star Recording Studio Session - Ever dreamed of being a pop star even if it’s just for a day? Now you can record a song of your dreams at a recording studio. This could be your stepping-stone to the stars!
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/pop-star-recording-studio-session.html
White Water Rafting - Thunderous noise, churning water, rapids all around you. Some serious teamwork is required to get you through it all. This is the unbelievable thrill and excitement of this all action high-adrenalin sport.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/white-water-rafting.html
Cooking with Anthony Worrall Thompson - Antony Worrall Thompson personally introduces you to some of his famous recipes as he demonstrates cooking styles from around the world. We are sure he will have many new recipes and stories after his harrowing time on the hit TV show "I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!". Then enjoy lunch afterwards at his restaurant. The perfect gift for the cooking enthusiast.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/cooking-with-anthony-worrall-thompson.html
If you have left it a bit late to buy your gifts? Don’t panic find-me-a-gift offer a next working day delivery if you place your order before 3.30pm.
Www.find-me-a-gift has over 1000 gift and present ideas for men, women & children for any occasion. Click below to see the full range
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/
Listed below are just a few to give you a taste of the gift experience day’s find-me-a-gift.co.uk sell.
Introduction to Racing Driving - From the moment you climb into a single-seater racing car, you are in for some unbelievable excitement. The starter waves his flag, you pump the accelerator, the engine roars and you're off. In moments you’re taking the corners and barrelling along the straights of a famous British racetrack.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/introduction-to-racing-driving.html
Pamper Day With Three Treatments For Two - Treat yourself and a friend to 3 treatments each including a 30 minute facial, 30 minute massage and a express eyebrow shape or nail file and polish and feel healthy, fit and relaxed at the adjoining health and fitness club.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/pamper-day-with-three-treatments-for-two.html
Indoor Skydiving - Imagine a wind tunnel that could be used for testing the aerodynamics of an F1 racing car, turn it upright, jump onto the airflow and you are skydiving. It's a proven concept operating in several countries to the benefit of the skydiving community and anyone else who wishes to taste the thrill of freefall in a completely safe environment.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/indoor-skydiving.html
Hydro Zorbing For Two - Expect to get very wet! Hydro zorbing is a totally different experience from harness zorbing as you do not rotate with the zorb, but instead 25 litres (2 buckets) of water (cold or warm) are added inside, and you slide from side to side and forwards and backwards while the zorb revolves around you, gaining speed with every revolution. The sensation has been described as a cross between a roller coaster and a waterfall! The hydro zorb run is approximately 200m long.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/hydro-zorbing-for-two.html
Hot Air Balloon Flight - Nothing quite compares to the serenity of ballooning. Gaze down over the fields, hedgerows and villages, dappled in soft evening sunlight or tranquil early morning light. Bask in the magical silence as you float high above the ground and then drop low enough to skim the hedgerows and treetops. It's a perfect way to take fabulous pictures - and a treat to remember for many years.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/hot-air-balloon-flight-uk.html
Wine Tasting Experience For Two - You'll be amazed at the skill, effort and experience it takes to produce a quality wine. Enjoy a tour of an English vineyard and take home a complimentary bottle of wine per couple to drink at your leisure.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/men/wine-tasting-experience-for-two.html
Pop Star Recording Studio Session - Ever dreamed of being a pop star even if it’s just for a day? Now you can record a song of your dreams at a recording studio. This could be your stepping-stone to the stars!
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/pop-star-recording-studio-session.html
White Water Rafting - Thunderous noise, churning water, rapids all around you. Some serious teamwork is required to get you through it all. This is the unbelievable thrill and excitement of this all action high-adrenalin sport.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/white-water-rafting.html
Cooking with Anthony Worrall Thompson - Antony Worrall Thompson personally introduces you to some of his famous recipes as he demonstrates cooking styles from around the world. We are sure he will have many new recipes and stories after his harrowing time on the hit TV show "I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!". Then enjoy lunch afterwards at his restaurant. The perfect gift for the cooking enthusiast.
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/gifts-for-men/shaving-tanning-skincare-gifts/cooking-with-anthony-worrall-thompson.html
If you have left it a bit late to buy your gifts? Don’t panic find-me-a-gift offer a next working day delivery if you place your order before 3.30pm.
Www.find-me-a-gift has over 1000 gift and present ideas for men, women & children for any occasion. Click below to see the full range
http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/
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