Published: 22nd Oct 2024
Yes, it’s that time of the year again! And, whether you’re putting together corporate gifts, building an innovative retail display or just gathering ideas around what to get your family, hampers certainly pack a punch.
Wonderfully versatile, you can go all out in terms of styling and fillers – and they provide a unique opportunity to capitalise on your branding. Here are some simple suggestions around creating one that stands out from the crowd.
Choosing a theme
The art of building refined hampers lies in your gift selection. We recommend that you opt for a thoughtful curation of themed goodies rather than a mishmash of anything that catches your eye on the supermarket shelf.
If it’s for someone you know well, by all means pander to their passions. However, if you’re giving on a corporate level, you’ll need to think a little deeper about what’s suitable and what’s not, keeping common business protocols (and your own product range) in mind.
For example, speciality drinks companies would be perfectly justified in giving hampers full of alcohol-related merchandise, but if you’re sending it to a more conservative business, it might be better to stay away from that particular concept.
And don’t forget to set a budget bearing in mind that quality trumps quantity every time, meaning that three really lovely items are better than ten things that will hit the bin.
Our top five festive season suggestions include:
A traditional Christmas collection: Think crackers, panettone, mince pies, eggnog, mulled wine sachets, gingerbread men, cranberry sauce, mixed nuts...and anything else that will make the recipient feel warm and fuzzy.
A ploughman’s platter range: Find a selection of fine cheeses, pickles, biscuits, bread sticks, chutney and a carefully paired bottle of wine or port that will tickle everyone pink. Make it extra luxe by adding a beautiful cheese board to the mix.
A Christmas movie night: This could include bespoke hot chocolate, mini marshmallows, snacks and dips, popcorn, sweets, some fluffy socks, a blanket and scented candles.
A pamper package: Aim for the best of the best with either a food selection that comprises opulent items like smoked salmon, caviar and champagne or create something personal with a range of upmarket skincare, health or beauty products.
A discerning wine selection: For clients who appreciate the gift of the grape, this is the perfect choice. Make it memorable by adding in some barware. From fun blind tasting bags and glasses to spectacular additions like our sommelier champagne sabre, there are loads of ways to make it an unboxing experience to remember.
Picking out the right container
Once you’ve decided on the contents, it’s time to find a container that will make them stand out. And there are more options than you may expect. Our bestsellers include:
The wicker range:
High-end and traditional, these are an ever-popular choice and have the added benefit of being used well into the future. Several of our products can be ordered with fitted cotton liners (in either black or white) which can be branded however you please.
From classic profiles with attached lids to hamper baskets and wicker trays, these are a quintessential choice that makes any corporate gift look nothing less than perfect. And, with a wide range of sizes and styles in stock, you can choose to stick to a tight budget or go all out.
The hamper box range:
Simplify the process with this fabulous collection and create a hamper with a difference. From fun Kraft cake boxes with built-in carry handles to Christmas-themed editions and a selection made from wood, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
The fabric bag range:
Do something a little different and use a quality fabric bag instead. We have loads of stunning designs to choose from including totes, shoppers, drawstring sacks and cleverly constructed bottle carriers with removable dividers.
All of these can be personalised in time for Christmas with a festive message, image or just your logo.
Whatever you decide on should be big enough to accommodate all your treats but small enough to make it look full and generous. Ask our team about branding options too – because it’s a great way to get in a bit of good advertising!
Filling and packing your hamper
Before you laden it with the good stuff, find a filler that will pad out the empty spaces and keep everything properly cushioned. This will also form the backdrop for your gifts, so make sure it compliments your colour scheme. Here are three great ideas:
Kiln-dried wood wool: Natural, biodegradable and refined, this option gives any hamper a sense of authenticity and style.
SizzlePak shred: On-trend and glamourous, this comes in just about every colour imaginable, bringing pizzazz to your presentation. We also have finer versions if you prefer a more pared-back vibe.
Tissue paper: Use it either in addition to or with shred...and, if your intention is to make a significant impact, we suggest you get it personalised.
Once your filler is in place, it’s time for the fun part. But before you unleash your creativity, think about what kind of container you’re using and whether you’ll be presenting it open or closed.
For open hamper boxes:
1. Place the largest items at the back to create stability and height
2. Arrange medium sized goodies next
3. Fill in the remaining space with little things like sweets or tea sachets
For closed hamper boxes:
1. Place all the heavy stuff in the middle of your container
2. Arrange everything else around the edges
3. Make sure you can close the lid without damaging anything
You may have to play around a bit to get it right, but it will be worth it in the long run.
The finishing touches
It’s all about the details, so make sure your finishing touches create an unboxing experience that will be talked about for years. We suggest:
1. Wrapping open containers in a cellophane hamper bag to give it that wow-factor
2. Adding a personalised ribbon
3. Including a fun tag with a message that shows you care
We also supply a range of self-sealing transit boxes that will keep everything safe in the post.
Shop hamper ideas at WBC
Our hampers are seen on the shelves of some of the finest institutions in London and are known for their class, quality and strength. So, if you’re gifting this Christmas, we’re here as your partner of choice. Contact our sales team today and let’s brainstorm some innovative new ideas.