With Valentine’s Day coming up, it’s safe to say there are a lot of pre-made gifts to choose from. Flowers, chocolates, smellies – there will be no shortage of these on the shelves of your favourite shops.
But to me, these can be quite impersonal. So this year, I’m doing something different. I’m creating my own present for my Valentine, in the form of a custom-made gift hamper. This is where you choose the items to include and even how to decorate it, so it’s perfectly suited to the person who is receiving it.
A well thought out, personalised gift hamper that you create yourself will beat anything pre-made that you’ll find in a shop.
Not only will this gift be loved, but it’s also great fun to make! Whether you’re making this for your other half, best friend or mum – you don’t have to second for settle best, and you can make it completely unique.
Yes, it takes more time than just going out to buy your average gift – but with some planning and thought, you can make this the best gift you’ve ever given. Here’s a step-by-step guide for how you can create your own Valentine’s Day gift hamper.
Get your head around the theme
It’s important to remember that you’re creating this hamper for Valentine’s Day. A baby shower hamper will look very different from a wedding hamper, and the same goes for this one.
Think about who the hamper is for and what their interests and hobbies are. What do they like? This can all help you tailor what you’re going to put in the hamper.
Decide your budget
It’s worthwhile having a budget, because once you start shopping for your hamper, it’s difficult to stop!
This will also depend on how much you celebrate Valentine’s Day. For more minimal couples who celebrate it with small gestures, a budget of £10 or £20 would be perfect. But you can also feel free to spend £50 or more if you love spoiling someone.
Whatever amount you choose, you’ll be able to select a perfect group of presents. And don’t rule out DIY – you could always make some Valentine’s Day themed cookies to put in the hamper too!
Time to go shopping!
Next it’s all about finding the items that you want to put in the hamper. Don’t just take inspiration from shop-bought ones. Anything goes and be creative! All that matters is that the gifts you pick are perfectly suited to the person receiving the hamper.
When it comes to this type of hamper, there are a few staples that are always good to include, which will represent Valentine’s Day perfectly. Here are a few ideas:
- A red rose
- Chocolates
- A Valentine’s Themed Mug
- Perfume/Aftershave
- Scented candle
- Underwear/boxers
- Love heart sweets
But there are also many ways you can make your hamper much more personal.
Valentine’s-theme favourites
There’ll be loads of gifts out there that you’ll only find at this time of year. Like these Twinings Blushing Chocolate Tea Hearts or this popcorn set from Sainsburys. Think back to their favourite things. Do they love reading magazines? Put a big red bow around a magazine and include that. Is your man obsessed with football? Find some football shaped sweets or a funny parody gift.
If you want to push yourself and DIY some of your gifts, you could try a framed picture of the two of you or make them a mixtape.
Pick your hamper
The most popular hamper container is a basket, which always look lovely. For alternatives, you could use a small wooden box (and even decorate it yourself!), a big teacup, a second hand box and even a planter all work really well.
Finishing touches
The final things left to do are line your hamper, arrange your gifts and wrap it! Don’t forget a big ribbon and a gift card – then you’re done!