Christmas is the season of giving and spreading joy – but sometimes coming up with gift ideas is easier said than done. What do you get the person who has it all, or that particularly picky family member?
A Christmas hamper may be the perfect solution to all your festive present puzzles - a carefully curated festive hamper can bring a touch of warmth, cheer and excitement to someone’s seasonal celebrations.
If you’re thinking of putting a Christmas hamper together for someone and don’t know where to begin, here are some examples of what to include so that you can brighten up anyone’s holiday season.
Choosing your festive container
To make sure you immediately get your recipient in the Christmas mood, you’ll want to choose a container that matches the season and their unique personality. Take your pick from these traditional, more modern or sustainable options – then you can always add some extra festive sparkle with extra decorations (more about this later).
Traditional wicker basket
Baskets are a go-to for hamper containers and as they’re usually made from rattan, they can add a nice nostalgic and rustic touch that suits the festive season. They come in all shapes and sizes – from the standard basket style to a two-flap huntsman design.
The great thing about a basket is that it’s easy to source and easy to use again after the holidays as storage around your home, or even as a fancy picnic basket to use on a family day out.
Wooden box
Sturdy and still with a rustic twist, a wooden box or crate will be simple to fill and could look great when paired with a hessian or linen lining. Again, it could be reused, regifted or recycled. You might even be able to source one from a charity shop for an extra sustainable touch. A wooden box is also easy to decorate with stickers and decoupage – perfect if you’d like to add more personalisation that speaks to your recipient or theme.
Modern gift boxes
For a sleeker, contemporary look, modern gift boxes are an excellent choice. There are also plenty of Christmas designed boxes available during the months in the lead up to the big day.
There’s sure to be a box design for every taste, from metallic finishes to playful holiday patterns and even vintage designs. They’re also usually made from recyclable materials, giving them an extra sustainable benefit.
(PS: we like to think the sleek red boxes we use for all of our own food hampers are especially on-brand for the holiday season!)
Creative alternatives
If you’re looking to get a little more imaginative with your Christmas container, why not try using items that can double as part of the gift itself?
Festive serving dishes can make the perfect base for a foodie-themed hamper. You could use anything from a seasonal ceramic platter to a rustic wooden cheese board. Then once the treats are gone, your recipient has a new piece for their holiday table wear collection.
Another fun and nostalgic option are Christmas tins. Whether they’re vintage or modern, these sturdy tins come decorated with festive scenes and can be reused for years to store holiday bakes, ornaments or other seasonal items.
For a real statement, try using a vintage suitcase or a decorative trunk. These can be sourced from thrift shops or vintage markets and add a quirky, retro feel to your hamper. Then after the holidays, your recipient can use it for storing seasonal décor, or as an accent piece in their home.
Sustainable alternatives
If you also want your gift hamper to be thoughtful towards the environment, there are more eco-friendly container options out there.
A reusable tote bag could be something that your loved one can continue to use long after Christmas – especially if you choose one that doesn’t have an overly-festive design.
There is also the new trend inspired by the Japanese art of fabric wrapping – Furoshiki. This involves wrapping your chosen items using a beautiful scarf, tea towel or fabric to create a bundle. Not only is this sustainable, but it’s very stylish. You’ll be able to add a festive touch with some holiday themed options.
Themed Christmas hamper
We know what you’re thinking – Christmas is already a theme. But on top of all your festive trimmings, you can still choose a focus for your hamper that still matches an individual’s tastes and interests. Here are some starter theme ideas to get you thinking.
Festive foodie hamper
For the food-lover in your life, a hamper filled with gourmet delights will never go unappreciated – especially with the bounty of treats that are available around Christmas time. Think artisanal cheeses, fine wines, speciality chocolates and savoury snacks like charcuterie or nuts. You could then top it up with some traditional festive treats like mince pies, Christmas pudding or gingerbread. To elevate things even further, include some cooking accessories such as a set of holiday-themed cookie cutters, a festive tea towel or even a Christmas cookbook filled with seasonal recipes.
Homemade goodies hamper
Nothing says love like a hamper that had been thoughtfully filled with handmade, from-the-heart treats. Whether it’s their favourite sweet bake or a secret family recipe, you could rustle up a selection of delights and package them in reusable jars or boxes. You could also create your own homemade jams, chutneys or spiced nuts and pair them with a bottle of homemade mulled wine or hot chocolate mix. For some extra thoughtfulness, add a handwritten recipe card to inspire them to try it at home.
Christmas pamper hamper
The holidays can be hectic, so it’s the perfect time to treat someone to a little self-care. Fill it with things such as luxurious bath bombs, scented candles, cozy socks and some soothing herbal teas or hot chocolate. You could also add skincare items like face masks, moisturizers and lip balms – all with festive scents like cinnamon, peppermint or vanilla.
Kiddie Christmas hamper
Give Santa a run for his money with an exciting collection of things for the little ones in your life. Pack your kiddie hamper with fun Christmas-themed toys, books and puzzles to keep them entertained throughout the holidays. You could include festive pyjamas and a Christmas kids movie or two to enjoy as they’re counting down the days. For extras, include some holiday snacks and hot chocolate. Adding a festive craft set will also ensure that they can have hours of fun and a monogrammed item will make the reveal even more magical.
What should I include in my Christmas hamper?
If you want to add all the trimmings and truly impress, here are some things that you’ll want to add to your thoughtfully festive gift.
Edible treats
Festive chocolates – try some handmade truffles or hot chocolate bombs to satisfy sweet tooth cravings.
Artisan jams and preserves – you’ll be able to find festive flavours like cranberry, fig or spiced orange to create an authentic Christmas spread.
Luxury beverages – there are lots of holiday-themed craft beers or spiced mulled wines to choose from. For non-alcoholic hampers, include high-end tea blends or a festive coffee mix.
Nuts and dried fruit – these make for a great healthy snack while still feeling special during the holiday season.
Festive snacks – from savoury items like gourmet popcorn or olives to seasonal sweet treats like mince pies or fruitcake, there are plenty of options to suit everyone’s palate.
Non-edible treats
Festive candles – an appropriately scented candle with notes of cinnamon, pine or vanilla will add a cosy touch to any home.
Seasonal home decor – you can never have too many Christmas decorations. An ornament, mini wreath or festive napkins will always bring an extra serving of cheer.
Cosy accessories – think plush socks, scarves, gloves or even a snug blanket to keep them warm all winter long.
Puzzle or board game – the perfect gift for keeping people entertained during the festive season. A Christmas puzzle or compact board game could be something that the whole family will enjoy.
Stationery – whether it’s a special notebook, or a beautiful pen, this is something that people will use again and again – and it will hopefully remind them of you.
Don’t forget about dietary preferences
If you’re going down the foodie avenue, the most important thing to remember is to consider the dietary preferences and restrictions of your recipient. Whether they follow a vegan diet, have food allergies or prefer gluten-free options, tailoring your hamper to their needs will show that extra level of thoughtfulness.
Including a variety of suitable treats ensures that everyone can indulge in the festive spirit without worry, making your gift both thoughtful and inclusive. Nowadays, there are a host of options for restricted diets when it comes to specialty baked goods and snacks.
Presentation and final touches
Christmas is the perfect excuse to add as much bling, glitter and extras as possible. And when it comes to making a lasting impression, the presentation of your Christmas hamper is just as important as its contents. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can turn a thoughtful gift into a beautifully festive experience.
Christmas themed ribbons
You’ll be able to find all sorts of festive printed ribbon like reindeer, snowflakes or candy canes. For a more traditional look, velvet ribbons in deep red, purple, green and gold will add a touch of elegance to any container.
Mini ornaments
Tie some miniature Christmas ornaments like tiny bells, stars or baubles to your hamper. Your loved one can then use them later to decorate their tree – it’s a perfect way to give something a second life.
Holiday-themed wrapping paper
You could line the inside of your hamper with Christmas wrapping paper featuring classic patterns for a vintage look, or something jazzier if your loved one is more of a stylish person. Metallic or glittering papers add a dash of sparkle.
Artificial snow or tinsel
By sprinkling a bit of artificial snow or layering some tinsel around your chosen hamper items, you can create an easy wintry and magical feel.
Pine garlands or berry branches
If you opt for the real things, you’ll be able to create a subtle scent of Christmas. But faux sprigs and berries will work just as well at giving a festive impression.
Dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks
You could tie bundles of the sticks or attach the dried slices for a natural decoration that smells delightful.
Brown paper and stamps
By finding some simple brown paper to wrap individual items, you can use a few rubber stamps and ink to create your own patterned wrapping paper. It will also add a real homemade and personal touch.
These are just a few suggestions to get you started. The real fun is all in getting creative with your hampers and adding the little touches and personality that your recipient will love. If you have little ones, why not get them involved too by adding their own decorations and messages to the gift?
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Full of thoughtfulness, creativity and festive joy, a Christmas hamper is a heartfelt gesture that can show just how much you care.
Whether you opt for homemade delights, luxury snacks or cosy winter essentials, there is always plenty of opportunity to add your own personal flair.
So whether you’re assembling one for family, friends, or colleagues, the joy you pour into crafting it is sure to make their Christmas even more special.
