35+ Thoughtful + Unique DIY Gift Basket Ideas that your Husband, Father or Son will love

Are you looking for the BEST gift basket ideas for the dad in your life? Here are 35+ best budget-friendly and creative father’s day gift basket ideas he will actually use!

Father's Day is right around the corner, which means it's time to start thinking about how to celebrate the dads, grandpas, husbands, and father figures who do so much for us all year long.

If you're anything like me, shopping for men can feel nearly impossible. They rarely tell you what they want, they already seem to have everything, and when you finally ask for ideas, the answer is usually, "I don't need anything."

Helpful? Not exactly.

That's why I absolutely love putting together Father's Day gift baskets.

Instead of trying to find one perfect gift, you can create a personalized gift basket filled with several thoughtful items you know he'll actually enjoy and use. Whether he's obsessed with fishing, loves spending weekends camping, enjoys grilling, can't resist spicy snacks, or simply appreciates his morning coffee, there's a gift basket idea out there that's perfect for him.

The best part? You don't have to spend a fortune to make Father's Day feel special. Many of these DIY Father's Day gift basket ideas can be put together on a budget, making them both meaningful and affordable. Even a simple basket filled with a few of his favorite things can feel incredibly thoughtful because it shows you've paid attention to what he loves.

One of my favorite things about creating gift baskets is that you have a much better chance of finding something he'll genuinely enjoy. Instead of putting all your hopes into one gift, you're curating an experience around his interests and hobbies.

Before you start shopping, take a few minutes to think about what makes him smile. What are his favorite snacks? What hobbies does he spend the most time doing? Are there certain stores, brands, foods, or activities he always gravitates toward? Once you've identified a few of his favorite things, you can build a personalized Father's Day gift basket that feels custom-made just for him.

To help make your shopping easier, I've rounded up 35 thoughtful and unique Father's Day gift basket ideas that are creative, practical, and guaranteed to make him feel appreciated.

Whether you're looking for DIY Father's Day gifts, gift baskets for men, or unique Father's Day gifts that go beyond the ordinary, you're sure to find plenty of inspiration below.

Let's dive in!

Related: 37 actually useful gifts for men he will love (all from Amazon)

35+ Thoughtful + Unique Gift Basket Ideas for him

01 | Golf Lover's Gift Basket

image source: pinterest

If your dad loves spending his weekends on the golf course, a golf-themed gift basket is a thoughtful Father's Day gift he'll actually get excited about.

Start with a basket filled with golf essentials like new golf balls, tees, a cooling towel, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to keep him comfortable during long rounds. Then add a few fun extras, such as his favorite snacks, a gift card to the clubhouse, or even a personalized golf towel for a special touch.

Want to make this Father's Day gift basket even more memorable? Consider treating him to a round at his favorite course, purchasing a lesson with a golf pro, or covering a month of his golf club membership. It's the perfect way to give him something he'll enjoy long after Father's Day is over.

02 | Grilling Master's Gift Basket

Araya Robbins

If your dad is the king of the backyard barbecue, a grilling-themed gift basket is guaranteed to be a Father's Day hit.

Fill a basket with everything he needs to elevate his next cookout, such as gourmet barbecue sauces, spice rubs, marinades, grilling tools, meat thermometers, and cedar grilling planks. You can also add fun extras like a personalized apron, grilling gloves, or a set of unique seasonings he'll be excited to try.

03 | Handyman Tool Gift Basket

image source: pinterest

For the dad who's always fixing, building, and tackling projects around the house, a handyman-themed gift basket is both practical and thoughtful.

Fill a sturdy tool caddy or storage bin with useful items like a tape measure, work gloves, utility knife, screwdriver set, measuring pencils, magnetic wristband, and a quality flashlight. You can also include a few extras he'll appreciate, such as hand wipes, energy snacks, and a durable coffee tumbler to keep him fueled while he works.

To make this Father's Day gift basket even more special, consider adding a gift card to his favorite hardware store so he can pick up supplies for his next project. It's the perfect gift for the dad who always seems to have the right tool—and the right solution—for every problem that comes his way.

04 | Fisherman gift basket

image source: pinterest

For the dad who feels most at peace out on the water, a fishing-themed gift basket is a thoughtful way to celebrate his favorite hobby this Father's Day.

Fill the basket with practical fishing essentials like new lures, fishing line, hooks, bait containers, and a tackle box organizer. Then add a few comfort items he'll appreciate during those early morning fishing trips, such as beef jerky, trail mix, a stainless steel tumbler, sunscreen, and a baseball cap to keep the sun out of his eyes.

05 | Self-Care Gift Basket for Dad

@london.nicole67

Who says self-care is just for moms? Every dad deserves a little time to relax, recharge, and take care of himself, too.

Create a Father's Day self-care gift basket filled with thoughtful items that encourage him to slow down and enjoy some well-deserved downtime. Include luxurious body washes, a quality journal, scented candles, a car freshener, cozy socks, lip balm, and his favorite coffee or tea. You could even add a good book or a gift card to his favorite coffee shop for an extra treat.

06 | Self-Care Gift Basket for Dad

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Looking for a fun Father's Day gift that's easy to put together? Create a lottery ticket gift basket filled with scratch-off tickets, his favorite snacks, and a few drinks.

Layer the bottom of the basket with chips, beef jerky, candy, and beverages, then tuck scratch-off tickets throughout for a surprise element. It's simple, affordable, and adds a little excitement to Father's Day.

07 | Aesthetic car care gift basket

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For the dad who treats his truck or car like his second baby, a car care gift basket is a practical gift he'll actually use. Fill a bucket with car wash soap, microfiber towels, tire shine, cleaning wipes, air fresheners, and detailing supplies.

The best part? The bucket doubles as part of the gift and can be used during future car washes. It's a thoughtful Father's Day gift that's both useful and budget-friendly.

08 | Black Stanley Gift Card Tumbler

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If your dad is impossible to shop for, this gift idea is the perfect solution. Fill a black Stanley tumbler with gift cards to his favorite restaurants, coffee shops, hardware stores, sporting goods stores, or anywhere else he loves to shop.

Tuck the gift cards inside with tissue paper, his favorite candy, or a few small snacks to make it feel extra special. It's simple, practical, and gives him the freedom to pick out exactly what he wants.

09 | Sports fan gift basket a la Dallas Cowboys

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10 | Yeti cooler gift basket filled with goodies

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The ultimate Father’s Day upgrade—packed right inside a YETI cooler he’ll actually use all summer long. This oversized gift basket is filled with all his favorites: go-to snacks, a stack of gift cards for his favorite spots, a dad jokes book for the laughs he’ll pretend aren’t funny, plus hats and a few thoughtful extras that make it feel both practical and personal.

It’s equal parts rugged and thoughtful—something he can take to the lake, the game, the backyard grill, or just keep stocked at home for his everyday wins. A gift that doesn’t just sit on a shelf… it becomes part of his routine.

11 | Beer and balloons

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12 | Luxury Men’s Gift Basket Idea

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13 | Bear, books + self care gift basket

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14 | Game Day accessories cooler gift basket

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15 | DIY Car Wash Gift Basket

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16 | Gift basket perfect for the fishing trip

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17 | Gardener’s Gift Basket

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18 | Summer Fun basket

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19 | Grill master gift basket

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20 | Italian chef gift basket

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21 | Road Trip essentials gift basket

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22 | Camp Fire gift basket

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23 | For the Football Tailgater

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24 | Movie lover’s gift basket

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25 | Netflix and chill gift basket

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26 | Date night gift basket

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27 | For the outdoorsy guy

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28 | License to Grill Gift Basket

tater tots and jello

29 | Hunter’s Gift Basket

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30 | Lucky Lottery ticket gift basket

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31 | Stanley Cup Gift Basket

@parkspartyplanning

32 | For the Lowe’s Hardware lover

it’s just mae

33 | Handyman gift basket

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34 | Manly essentials Igloo gift basket

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35 | Basket of basic men’s necessities

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36 | Gift basket for him

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Final Thoughts on Father's Day Gift Basket Ideas

Finding the perfect Father's Day gift doesn't have to be stressful. The truth is, most dads aren't looking for extravagant presents—they simply appreciate feeling loved, appreciated, and thought of.

That's why DIY Father's Day gift baskets are such a great idea. They allow you to create a personalized gift based on his hobbies, favorite foods, interests, and everyday essentials. Whether he's a golfer, fisherman, griller, handyman, coffee lover, or car enthusiast, a thoughtfully curated gift basket shows that you took the time to create something just for him.

Hopefully these Father's Day gift basket ideas have inspired you to create a gift he'll genuinely enjoy. No matter which basket you choose, it's the thought and effort behind it that will make Father's Day feel special.

Happy Father's Day!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I put in a Father's Day gift basket?

The best Father's Day gift baskets are built around your dad's interests and hobbies. Start with a theme, then add a mix of practical items, snacks, treats, and small gifts. Popular items include gift cards, gourmet snacks, grilling accessories, coffee, fishing gear, golf accessories, car care products, tools, and personalized gifts.

How do I make a DIY gift basket for men?

The easiest way to create a DIY gift basket for men is to choose a specific theme based on something they love. Use a basket, bucket, cooler, toolbox, tote, or Stanley tumbler as your container, then fill it with useful items that fit the theme. Finish it with tissue paper, ribbon, and a handwritten note for a personal touch.

What are some affordable Father's Day gift basket ideas?

You don't have to spend a lot of money to create a meaningful gift basket. Many budget-friendly Father's Day gift baskets can be made using snacks, beverages, lottery tickets, candy, coffee, grooming products, or items from the dollar store. Even a simple basket filled with his favorite things can feel thoughtful and special.

What are the best items to include in a gift basket for men?

Some of the most popular gift basket fillers for men include beef jerky, nuts, popcorn, coffee, tumblers, gift cards, grilling seasonings, tools, car accessories, fishing gear, golf balls, body care products, and personalized items. The key is choosing things he'll actually use and enjoy.

What can I use instead of a gift basket?

Traditional baskets are great, but you can also use coolers, toolboxes, tackle boxes, buckets, wooden crates, Stanley cups, storage bins, duffel bags, or reusable totes. Choosing a container that matches the theme makes the gift feel even more creative and useful.

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Please feel free to email me at ashlina@thedecorista.com if you have any questions!  I’m always happy to help with decorating, life advice or even picking out a specific perfume!  Have an amazing day!!

Also, check out my Amazon shop HERE to shop all my favorite things, tips and tricks. You can also download the free LIKETOKNOW.IT app and follow me HERE.

STAY IN THE KNOW:  Don’t forget to sign up for my exclusive Love Letters for STYLE TIPS, LIFE ADVICE, COSMIC TEA, AND MUCH MORE!

As always, thank you so much for stopping by today, I truly appreciate all of you! xo, Ashlina

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How to Put Together the Perfect Housewarming Gift Basket (17+ Creative Ideas & Themes)

Moving into a new home is more than just a change of address; it’s a significant life event filled with excitement, new beginnings, and a fair share of stress. This is where the tradition of a housewarming comes into play. But what exactly is a housewarming, and why is creating a housewarming gift basket such a thoughtful and appreciated gesture? Let’s dive in.

The Tradition of Housewarming

A housewarming is an age-old tradition where friends, family, and sometimes even new neighbors come together to celebrate someone’s move into a new home. The term “housewarming” originates from a time when people would bring firewood as gifts to literally warm the house, ensuring it was cozy and welcoming.

While the need for firewood might be a thing of the past, the essence of the tradition remains: it’s about bringing warmth, joy, and comfort to the new space, making it feel like home. This is where housewarming gifts come in—tokens of affection that help turn a house into a home.

Why a Housewarming Gift Basket is a Great Idea

When it comes to housewarming gifts, a thoughtfully curated gift basket stands out for several reasons:

1. Personalization: A gift basket can be tailored to the recipient’s tastes and needs, making it a deeply personal and meaningful gesture. Whether they’re into cooking, gardening, or cozy nights in, you can fill the basket with items that reflect their personality.

2. Practicality: Moving is often overwhelming, and practical gifts can make the transition smoother. Items like kitchen essentials, cleaning supplies, or even gourmet snacks can be a lifesaver during those first few days.

3. Variety: One of the best things about a gift basket is the variety it offers. Instead of one big item, the recipient gets to enjoy a selection of smaller gifts, each one adding a bit of comfort or joy to their new space.

4. Aesthetic Appeal: A beautifully arranged basket not only serves as a gift but also as a piece of decor. It can be a lovely addition to their new home, even before they start unpacking.

How Much Should You Spend on a Housewarming Gift Basket?

There's no hard rule, but as a general guide:

• Casual acquaintance or coworker: $20–$40 — a small themed basket (candle, dish towel, snack) is plenty.

• Close friend or family member: $50–$100 — a fuller basket with 5–8 items across a theme.

• Best friend, sibling, or someone you're very close to: $100–$200+ — go all in with a bigger basket, higher-end items, and a personal touch like a framed photo or custom piece.

A good rule of thumb: match the gift to the relationship, not the trend. A $30 basket with genuine thought behind it will always outshine a $150 basket that feels generic.

How to Put Together the Perfect Housewarming Gift Basket

Creating a housewarming gift basket doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple guide to help you craft a basket that’s both thoughtful and practical:

1. Choose the Basket: Start with a sturdy, attractive basket that suits the recipient’s style. Wicker baskets are classic, but you could also consider a decorative storage box or a reusable tote. I find that scalloped wicker baskets are a huge hit.

2. Pick a Theme: Decide on a theme based on what you know about the recipient. Here are a few ideas:

   • Gourmet Kitchen: Fill the basket with quality olive oils, spices, gourmet pasta, and a wooden spoon.

   • Cozy Night In: Think plush blankets, scented candles, a good book, and some gourmet hot chocolate or tea.

   • Green Thumb: For someone who loves plants, include small potted plants, gardening gloves, and a plant care book.

3. Add Practical Items: No matter the theme, it’s always good to include some practical items that every new homeowner will appreciate, such as:

   • Hand soap or dish soap in a pretty bottle

   • A set of stylish dish towels or a small cutting board

   • A multi-tool or a basic tool kit

4. Include a Personal Touch: Make the gift basket even more special by adding something personal. This could be a handwritten note, a framed photo, or a homemade treat.

5. Arrange Thoughtfully: Presentation matters. Place the taller items at the back and shorter ones at the front, layering in a way that’s visually appealing. You can also use tissue paper or shredded paper to fill in gaps and add some color.

6. Wrap it Up: Once you’re satisfied with the arrangement, consider wrapping the entire basket in clear cellophane and finishing it off with a bow. This not only keeps everything in place but also adds a touch of elegance.

Housewarming Gift Basket Etiquette: A Few Things to Keep in Mind

• Bring it to the housewarming party, not moving day. Moving day is chaos — save the gift for the actual celebration, once things are a little more settled.

• Skip anything that assumes their taste. Big statement decor pieces are risky since you don't yet know their new home's style. Consumables (food, candles, bath products) are safer bets than decor.

• Check for allergies or dietary restrictions before loading up a basket with gourmet food or wine.

• If they're renting, skip anything that implies permanent changes (like nails, hooks, or paint) and lean practical instead.

• Don't forget the card. A basket without a note can feel a little impersonal — even two or three sentences make it feel intentional.

p.s. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I am so grateful for your support.

💡 Pro-tip: Grab a FREE 30 Day trial of Amazon Prime to get unlimited free shipping to make shopping for your coffee bar super easy – without even leaving home!

14+ Creative Housewarming Gift Basket Ideas

01 | Family Focused Decor accents

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A sentimental basket like this one is perfect for a family moving into their forever home. Anchor it with a "Bless This Family" sign or wall art, then fill in around it with cozy extras — this is the theme to reach for when you want the gift to double as decor they'll actually hang up.

Get this look:

02 | Wooden kitchen essentials kit

pinterest . com

Wooden utensils are one of those things nobody buys for themselves but everyone needs — which makes this an easy win for practically any new homeowner. Bundle a few wooden spoons, a cutting board, and a set of coasters for a rustic, kitchen-ready basket.

Get this look:

03 | Cookbook, candles & cooking essentials

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This one's for the friend who wants their new kitchen to feel like a cooking show set from day one. Pair a beautiful cookbook with a signature candle scent and a few high-end cooking essentials for a basket that feels curated, not thrown together.

Get this look:

04 | Cleaning + brunching staples

Chelsea Peterson

Half practical, half party-ready — this combo covers the boring stuff (cleaning supplies) and the fun stuff (mimosa fixings for their first brunch at home) in one basket. It's a great option when you're not sure which "type" of gift the recipient would prefer, because it covers both.

Get this look:

05 | Bathroom spa essentials

via: Home on The Hill

Creating a beautiful basket filled with bathroom essentials that create a calming sanctuary is a great way to encourage relaxation and rest.

What to put in this basket:

• candles

• hand soap

• bath soaps / bath salts

• potpourri

• towels

• body brush

• body lotions / body butters

Get this look:

06 | Gin and Tonic starter kit

pinterest . com

A cocktail kit is a wonderful way to celebrate during a housewarming party. Try a gin and tonic starter kit, complete with all the essentials.

07 | New Home owner tool kit

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Put together a basket of tools to set your friend up right.

What to put in this tool gift basket:

• A hammer

• A 100’ measuring tape

• A screwdriver set

• Extension cords

• An art hanger nail set

08 | Kitchen utensil starter kit

Bushelanda Peckbasket

A fuller kitchen basket like this one is ideal for someone moving from an apartment into their first real kitchen. Think spatulas, whisks, measuring cups, and a few gourmet pantry staples layered together for a basket that actually gets used week one.

Get this look:

09 | Self Care Tea Lover Cozy Gift Set

Nest Custom Baskets

If your friend is a tea person before anything else, this is the basket to build. A tea sampler, a cozy mug, honey, and a soft throw make for the ultimate "welcome home, now relax" gift.

Get this look:

10 | For the plant lover

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For someone who loves plants, include small potted plants, gardening gloves, and a plant care book — this basket doubles as instant decor, since the greenery can go straight onto a windowsill or entryway table.

Get this look:

11 | Netflix and Chill

love-the-day

For the friend whose new couch will get more use than their new kitchen — think blankets, popcorn, candy, and a gift card to their favorite streaming service. It's a playful, low-effort basket that still feels genuinely useful.

Get this look:

12 | Home basics and gifts cards

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Nothing is better than a Chik-fil-a gift card. Add that in to a beautiful basket filled with things like a cozy blanket, cookie jar, Mrs. Meyers dish soap and a bottle of Baileys.

13 | Moscow mule home bar starter kit

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Copper mugs, ginger beer, lime, and a good vodka — this basket is basically a housewarming party in a box. It's especially fun for a couple hosting their first get-together in the new place.

14 | Fall themed gift basket

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Bring out the pumpkin candles for this awesome Autumn basket. Help your friends create a more cozy home with all of the Fall decorating essentials.

Here are a few ideas:

15 | A farmhouse style surprise

pinterest . com

Copper mugs, ginger beer, lime, and a good vodka — this basket is basically a housewarming party in a box. It's especially fun for a couple hosting their first get-together in the new place.

16 | Magnolia Table inspired gift basket

pinterest . com

Rustic touches, dried florals, and a farmhouse-style sign make this basket feel like it belongs in a Joanna Gaines mood board. It's a great fit for anyone whose new home leans cozy, neutral, and textured.

17 | A pink Yeti cooler with wine and blankets

image sourcepinterest.com/pin/597289969369163384/

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I put in a housewarming gift basket? A good basket usually mixes practical items (dish towels, cleaning supplies, a multi-tool) with a few "just for fun" extras (candles, snacks, a cozy blanket) tied together by a theme. Aim for 5–8 items so the basket feels full without feeling cluttered.

What is the etiquette for a housewarming gift? Bring the gift to the housewarming party or your first visit after they've settled in — not on moving day itself, when things are chaotic. Keep the gift practical or consumable rather than a big decor statement, since you don't yet know their new home's style, and always include a card.

How much should you spend on a housewarming gift? Most people spend $30–$75 for a basket for a friend or coworker, and $100+ for close family or a best friend. The relationship matters more than the price tag — a thoughtful $30 basket will always beat a generic $150 one.

What's a good theme for a housewarming basket if I don't know them well? Stick to universally useful themes like a kitchen essentials basket, a cleaning supplies basket, or a cozy night in basket. These work for almost anyone and don't require knowing their specific hobbies or style.

Is it rude to give a housewarming gift basket instead of cash? Not at all — a thoughtfully put-together basket is often more meaningful than cash, especially for close friends or family. That said, if the recipient is on a tight moving budget, a gift card tucked into the basket (for a hardware store, grocery store, or takeout) adds a practical boost.

Can I make a housewarming gift basket without buying an actual basket? Yes — a decorative storage box, a galvanized bucket, a tote bag, or even a nice laundry basket all work as containers, and have the bonus of being reusable in the recipient's new home.

What should I avoid putting in a housewarming gift basket? Skip anything overly personal to your taste (like a specific piece of wall art) since you don't know their new home's style yet, and be mindful of food allergies or dietary restrictions if you're including gourmet snacks or alcohol.

When is the best time to give a housewarming gift? Anytime within the first few weeks to a couple of months after they've moved in works — there's no strict deadline. Many people wait until the actual housewarming party, if one is planned, to bring their gift.

Remember, gift baskets are a really thoughtful way to give a gift with heart, meaning and intention. Have fun with this process so that the experience, connection and memory lasts forever.

I hope you enjoyed this post!

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Please feel free to email me at ashlina@thedecorista.com if you have any questions!  I’m always happy to help with decorating, life advice or even picking out a specific perfume!  Have an amazing day!!

Also, check out my Amazon shop HERE to shop all my favorite things, tips and tricks. You can also download the free LIKETOKNOW.IT app and follow me HERE.

STAY IN THE KNOW:  Don’t forget to sign up for my exclusive Love Letters for STYLE TIPS, LIFE ADVICE, COSMIC TEA, AND MUCH MORE!

As always, thank you so much for stopping by today, I truly appreciate all of you! xo, Ashlina

FOLLOW ALONG: Instagram | Pinterest | Shop Amazon | You Tube