Were you one of the kids who was “lucky” enough to get a bulky, itchy, unsightly sweater from your well-meaning granny?
While that sweater was likely made or bought out of love, there’s no denying the embarrassment you felt when Mom made you wear it. Especially if you had to wear it on picture day. That sweater became immortal. Every time you look back at your yearbook, there it is in all its glory.
Your granny’s heart was in the right place. However, she was likely out of touch with the latest fashions and simply didn’t know what else to give you.
You see, gift-giving can be tricky. This could be because the person already has everything. Or, maybe you don’t know them well enough to know their likes and dislikes. Or, perhaps, like you and your granny, you live in different worlds, generations apart.
Why not take the guesswork out of gift-giving and choose something that never goes out of style? Cookies! Cookie gift baskets or boxes make the perfect gift. Keep reading to learn all you need to know about cookie gifting so you’re ready the next time you need a gift.
(KamranAydinov/Freepik)
They Deserve A Cookie (Or Twelve)
Cookies are an ideal gift for anyone and everyone. Nearly everyone on the planet likes one type of cookie or another. There are those few sad, almost mythical creatures who don’t like cookies and probably hate fun; however, most people will appreciate this delicious treat.
Some people to consider giving a cookie gift basket or box to:
- Family
- Your Boss
- Co-workers
- Neighbors
- Friends
- Your Child’s Teacher
- Local Emergency Response Personnel
- The Mailman
- The Clergymen/women at Your Church
- Missionaries
The list could go on and on. In short, if the person has a heartbeat and tastebuds, a cookie basket is right for them.
This Occasion Calls For Cookies
Is there ever a wrong time to give someone cookies? The short answer is “no.” But here are some occasions that warrant a memorable cookie gift:
- Celebrations: Things such as a birthday, graduation, holidays, weddings, the birth of a baby, promotions, etc., are all cause for celebration. And, what better way to celebrate than by giving the special person a gift of cookies?
- Appreciation: Show your thanks to people who make a positive difference in your life. Send a gourmet cookie gift box to your child’s teacher, your boss, a client, or a friend.
- Condolences: Hard things happen in life, such as losing a loved one, failing a test, going through a breakup or divorce, or losing a job. There’s no better way to cheer someone up and let them know you are thinking about them than by delivering a sweet treat to their door.
Preparation Is Key
Before assembling your basket, be sure you have everything you need. Things needed to create the perfect gift basket include the following:
- Packaging: This includes the container you plan to put the cookies in and the cellophane or clear bag to go around the container. You’ll also want some tissue paper to line the basket.
- Ribbon: Choose a ribbon that complements the type of cookies you choose, the occasion for the gift, or the time of year. For example, if you are giving a gift at Christmas, choose red and green ribbons. For summertime gifts, opt for brightly colored or floral ribbons.
- Plastic Treat Bags: It is ideal to individually wrap each cookie. This will help them travel well, look neater, and stay fresh longer. While zipper bags will work, plastic treat bags will give a nice, clean, finished look. Make sure they are airtight, and for extra protection, double bag them. (It’s what we do with our cookie box shipments to keep them perfectly fresh.)
- Gift Tag: The gift alone is thoughtful; however, a nice note will add a more personal touch. Write your sentiment on a cute gift tag or card that can be attached to the package.
- The Goods: You can’t make cookie care packages without cookies. So, if you are a decent baker, gather all the necessary ingredients and start baking.On the other hand, if you tend to set off the smoke alarm every time you attempt to use the oven, consider ordering your cookies instead.
It’s What’s Inside That Counts
The most important part of any gift is what’s inside. The number one thing in a cookie basket is, well, cookies, of course!
It’s up to you to decide the size of your gift. An average-sized cookie gift box has between six and twelve cookies. You can adjust the amount to fit your box or basket. The type of cookies you choose to include will depend on the person you are giving them to.
If you have a close relationship with the person, you will likely know their flavor preferences. So, it’s ok to opt for a single cookie flavor. For example, if Linda loves chocolate and peanut butter, fill her basket with a dozen chocolate-frosted peanut butter cookies.
If you are unsure what the person likes, consider giving them an assortment of gourmet cookies. Be sure you are aware of any allergies, such as gluten or nut allergies. You’d hate to give a gift the person can’t even enjoy.
Make It Pretty
The first thing the gift receiver sees is the packaging, so you want it to look beautiful and appealing. Decide on the type of container you want to put your cookies in. Although the name “cookie gift basket” implies that the cookies are in a basket, other options exist.
First, you need to consider how you will get the gift to the person. If you plan to deliver it yourself, the options are nearly endless. You can put your cookies in a traditional basket, a decorative bag, a cute tin container, or a gift box.
However, if you plan to ship the package, you must plan accordingly. A basket is trickier to send than a cookie gift box.
If you are shipping your cookies, you’ll need to wrap and pack your cookies in a way that will travel well. We recommend that you pack them in airtight bags, use attractive packing material, and mark the shipment “fragile” to ensure safe delivery. Not doing so will cause your gift basket or box to look more like a cookie massacre than a desirable treat.
Now is the time to put everything together. First, set your basket or container in the middle of your cellophane or clear bag. Line the basket or box with a couple of layers of tissue paper.
Next, arrange the packaged cookies in an attractive yet secure way. Add decorative paper shreds to protect cookies and add to the gift’s overall presentation. Gather the edges of the clear bag or cellophane and bring it up around the container. Tie it with a decorative bow, and you’re all set!
If shipping, you’ll want to have a big enough box to put your cookie basket in and some packing material to go around the basket. Before long, the receiver will be enjoying their delicious gift.
So, the next time you need a gift idea, consider giving the timeless treat that everyone loves— cookies. We guarantee that a cookie gift basket is one gift no one will want to return or exchange.