When you think gift baskets, what are they filled with? My favorite baskets are filled with coffee, cookies and chocolate, topped with a perfect bow and just waiting to be unwrapped. But really, that is only the beginning. There are hundreds of vendors that fill gift baskets with everything from spa treats, to doggy items. Some vendors let you pick the items that you want to put in them! So how do you pick the perfect gift basket for the people that you love? Here are three easy to use ways.

1.Pick a gift basket that reflects what they care about. Are they into "green" living? Then choose a basket that feature Fair Trade and Organic items like coffee, mugs and gifts from Nectar of Life Coffee Company. Or perhaps they are a lover of fresh fruit, wine, nuts, and vegetables. Then a basket from Harry and David would be a fantastic choice. Pre-Made gift baskets can range in price from $19.00- $200.00 +. The benefits of gift baskets are a huge time- savings and you can have them shipped with a custom card directly to that special someone.

2.A second option is to build a basket on your own. I know it sounds daunting, but it can be very easy, and you can enjoy a cost savings. The price range for this option is about $20.00-$200.00 +. One negative aspect is that you will have the shipping or delivery hassle to deal with. If you don't price around, it could eat whatever cost savings from your merchandise. Should you choose to build your own gift basket here are some simple guidelines to get you going.

A.You will need a theme-based basket or box (a photographer, for instance would be able to use a photo box; a fisherman, a tackle box; a child could use a fabric lined basket as a toy box, etc.)

B.After establishing your base pick three "big" items that flow with the theme. Let's stick with the photographer. For this person, choose a camera case, lenses for their camera, a flip style photo album, or if you have money, a camera or lens that they have mentioned.

C.Then pick four smaller items. For a fisherman, this might include lures, a fly- fishing reel, multi-tool, pliers, flashlight, a pen sized pole (available at Wal-Mart, Joe's and other sporting goods stores), and a waterproof zippered pouch. These are just a few suggestions.

D.As a final touch include small snacks, trinkets or edibles that tie your gift together. For a child, a few ideas would be fruit roll-ups, jewelry, die-cast cars, hair ties, fancy shoelaces, or their favorite candy (as approved by their parents).

E.Use glue dots (available at Michaels or local craft stores) to secure all items together. Don't get out-of-control one or two per item is all that is necessary. Put the big items in first. Then medium sized items, and the small items as filler around the bottom. Think pyramid as you are assembling the basket.

F.Last, purchase a basket bag, or if you are ambitious, a roll of basket wrap. Bring the corners to the top and secure with a small section of ribbon.

G.For the crowning jewel, a bow at the top will create a gift that is both festive and elegant.

3. Suppose you have a good idea of what you want, and would like to incorporate things that you have purchased. If you just don't have time or inclination to assemble the basket yourself, then check locally. Many times there are gift basket companies that can both assemble and attach a bow to a basket that you have otherwise created. This option ranges in cost from $25.00- $100.00 depending on how much work, and materials you use.

Gift baskets can incorporate a number of ideas, and goods. They are very functional and enjoyable. All age ranges, and interests can be covered and encompassed in just one gift.