Gift Baskets

Most people love to receive gift baskets. Maybe it's the quantity and variety of items inside, or the basket itself, or the thrill of getting a gift. Mostly, it frees up their time. Time has become such a valuable commodity that people are willing to pay well to be saved from it themselves. Whatever, gift baskets are always popular - and you can customize yours toward your cause.

First of all, think of all the places you could sell gift baskets. At craft fairs, craft malls, in the lobby of your shelter, at your organization's fundraiser (along with other money making projects), and other places of your own imagination.

I like the idea of selling them inside the shelter. People could buy them for friends or relatives who've just adopted a pet, or for ones who already have a pet and there's a special occasion coming up.

The baskets, to keep in theme, would most likely be geared toward the animals. Get a creative volunteer to fill them with treats, toys, how-to books for the owner, coupons, pet shampoo, etc. Put in a little something for the owner, as well, or something they can share. Imagination again.

If you have no one with your group who knows the basics of putting a gift basket together, get some instruction from one who does know or check out a Library book on the subject.

How to price a basket? Factor in the cost of what's in it, plus the basket itself, plus any wrapping, stuffing, etc. Get a feel for general appeal. A very basic one, rather small, should start no less than $12.00, and most likely more. A chock-full one with lots and lots of goodies could reach $45.00. When you break the $50 mark, you might be stuck holding the baskets!