As an alternative to the customary Christmas wrapping, why not think about putting gifts into a gift basket. That way the packaging actually becomes part of the gift and can be used over and over again, ‘the gift that keeps on giving’ so to speak. Gift baskets are, of course, quite widespread. But when was the last time you saw baskets under the tree instead of wrapped gifts? A basket filed with goodies. You can find all kinds of baskets to use. There are quite a few cultures that make incredibly distinctive and appealing baskets that could be used.

There are many African baskets that are wonderfully made. The Zulu tribe have a striking basket made with geometric designs. And they aren’t very expensive. Many of these baskets were customarily intended to store their Zulu beer. This is an interesting concoction of water, brown sugar, brown bread, yeast and maize meal called ‘Umqombothi’. Very sweet and hits the spot. And yes, the baskets were waterproof.Now how interesting would something like that to be, to be used to store the Christmas punch and above all that the smell of these works of art is also pretty sensational on the imagination. You can almost picture being in the African veld.

There is also the fact that this is a great as well as practical way to fulfill our ‘obligations’ to help the poor and those who are in need this year. We always call Christmas the ‘Season of Giving’ and we can use this idea to not only give, but give in a way that is original and can really bring joy to another person’s heart and maybe, at least for a short time make this world a better place to live in. Let us not forget, of course that charity or giving begins at home and designing a really well thought out gift basket is also a really wonderful gift for that special someone, well worth the effort and time and sure to ignite too long cooling flames.

If you are looking for some ready made Gift Backets, here is some more information on Creating Gift Baskets for Women