Whether you’ve already started Christmas present shopping or are still in search of the perfect present to indulge your loved one with, how about switching things up this year with a personalised gift – and learn how to craft a Christmas hamper?
Whilst Christmas hampers have been perfected by the likes of Cartwright & Butler, Fortnum & Mason and Harrods, by making your very own Christmas hamper you can fill it with a selection of the recipients favourite things. So, from budget to what to include, here are our top tips on how to craft a Christmas hamper (and have all your friends asking for their very own version, too).
Decide on budget
No matter if your budget is big or small, it’s a good idea to set boundaries on how little (or much) you’re willing to spend on your Christmas hamper. If it’s a smaller budget of under £30 you may find yourself choosing between quality and quantity, whereas a larger budget naturally allows more creative freedom. For the hamper itself, choose something that is the right size – you could get crafty with a shoebox or look to a larger wicker style if you aren’t short on space.
Choose your theme
So, you’ve decided how much you want to spend – now it’s time to get to the fun part, the contents. Do they have a sweet tooth, or love a tipple? Are they in need of pampering, all things luxurious – or a mixture of everything? One thing’s for sure, a bottle of something sparkly (alcoholic or not…) and some beautiful glassware to enjoy it in will rarely go amiss – the ultimate versatile addition for him and her.
Riedel 5 Piece O Cabernet-Merlot Glasses & Syrah Decanter Set – £45
Spiegelau Set of 4 Gin & Tonic Tumblers – £24
LSA Set of 2 Champagne Theatre Saucers – £45
Get creative
Want to take your hamper theme even further? Then get creative! Could you fill it with things starting with the first letter of their name (e.g. slippers for Simone, an eye mask for Ellie), or choose products that all come in their favourite colour, like a pink silk pillowcase and a coordinated set of pyjamas.
Laycuna London Pink Wink Cashmere Eye Mask – £10
Australia Luxe Pink Muchas Slippers – £39
Laycuna London Boudoir Pink Silk Satin Long PJ Set – £32
Pad it out with decorative filler
Now you’ve planned what your hamper is set to include, it’s time to put it together. Dependent on the fragility or space you have in the box, you’ll want to include tissue paper, perhaps some bubble wrap or some shredded paper (keeping up the crafty theme)! Hide your treats in different areas of the finished hamper, so that it feels as if there’s no end of delights.
Include a surprise extra
For a fun, interactive final present, deviate from your theme for an indulgent, tongue in cheek last moment. It could be a tasty treat from choc on choc, a scented candle with a pop of personality, or a boozy accessory to fulfil their desires. Let this final gift be the one that shows how well you know them!
Anya Hindmarch Candle Chewing Gum – £25
Choc on Choc Make Your Own Christmas Lollys – £9.75
Ted Baker Tan Cardholder Hip Flask Set – £32
Add a final flourish
When it comes to the finishing touches of your Christmas hamper, don’t hold back when it comes to the decorations. Make use of any festive wrapping paper you can think of, be it gold ribbons or glitter – be sure to pull out all of the stops. Of course, include a gift tag to add a note, after all, every last detail matters…
