give a fruit gift basket
this time

Gift baskets are the perfect gift anytime

Gift baskets - Always a good time for fruit

Fruit is always in season somewhere on the planet and it can be to your table within days. What a wonderful thought: Whatever the season, a fruit gift basket is always available.

And a fruit basket is an idea that works for almost any occasion. Even though it may be out of season where you live, fine fruit is being grown and imported from some part of the globe.

Pick a pretty basket and you can begin to think about the assortment that you will include. One tip with food is to be sure fresh is fresh and without flaws. For packaged goods, be sure to check the expiration date. For online basket purchases, reputable companies like Harry and David rarely disappoint. But remember the first rule; Order Early!

When it comes to gift baskets, a fruit theme has a long tradition as chronicled by a Baltimore newspaper in 1823. The ailing Captain John Porter, of the US Navy ship Greyhound, was welcomed to Puerto Rican waters by a British warship captain, who upon hearing that Porter was ill, sent him a basket of fresh fruit to improve his health. Imagine that, a fruit basket for good health.

Today scarcity isn't an issue but good planning is, but here is a tip: if you want to order a basket for the holiday season - order early and avoid disappointment.

Adding a seasonal flair to your fruit theme will add excitement. If you are planning a do-it-yourself project you can create this added attraction by thinking about how you might include note cards, recipes or candles. Spices and aromatics can also be a nice touch with fruit. This will set you on course when you are ready to buy. Chocolate and wine are natural compliments of fruit. So when picking up those Fuji apples or raspberry preserves think about something to drink and maybe a box of Ghirardelli chocolate.

With any food themed baskets it’s always a nice touch to add a few offbeat items. Some fancy napkins, note cards with Manet still lifes. Even some fruit and vegetable refrigerator magnet would be a fun touch.

Once you selected an attractive basket that is the right size, you are ready to start. Try to create a look of abundance - a cornucopia effect, but not too top heavy. Make sure everything is nestled in place so that the fruit is protected from harm. Clear plastic wrap is optional but helps hold everything in place. Finish it off with a fancy bow and ribbon. Your friend will be delight by this unexpected presentation.