Christmas planning is already underway for many businesses - and for those looking to impress clients, customers or employees, that means designing the perfect holiday hamper.
Hampers make thoughtful corporate gifts, memorable presents for family and friends and attractive retail displays for showcasing products. When carefully considered, they create a real sense of occasion.
But what makes a hamper truly stand out? We’ve put together seven steps to help you create a gift that looks exceptional and leaves a lasting impression.
1. Choose a theme
The key to building a refined hamper 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, use that knowledge to play 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.
2. Choose a size and budget
Size matters when it comes to hampers, but not necessarily in the way you might think. Bigger is not always better - three lovely products are better than 10 that will hit the bin. Quality always trumps quantity.
Consider your budget and choose a hamper size that suits the contents you want to gift. If you can afford to splash out with a large hamper of premium items, then that’s great. If budget’s more of a concern, a smaller hamper that looks packed could well be the way to go.
3. Choose 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:
Wicker hampers:
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, which can be branded however you please.
From classic profiles with attached lids to hamper baskets and trays, wicker hampers are a sensible choice that makes a corporate gift look nothing less than perfect.
Gift boxes:
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable solution, gift boxes could be the way to go. From quality boxes with magnetic lids, to off-the-shelf Christmas-themed editions, you’re spoiled for choice here.
The fabric bag range:
Who says a hamper has to be a box? Do something a little different and use a quality fabric bag instead. Totes, shoppers, drawstring sacks, bottle carriers with removable dividers - in the right hands any one of these has gifting potential.
If you really want to go the extra mile, you can even add personalisation, such as a festive message, image or just your logo.
4. Choose the right packaging combinations
When you’ve chosen your hamper, you should consider how other packaging items can work with it to create an even better experience - while protecting what’s inside.
For example:
- Wicker hampers and wood wood filler make an eco-friendly box that shouts sustainability
- Adding cardboard dividers to keep bottles in place, so you can arrange their presentation within a box
- Wrapping a magnetic box with tissue paper and a ribbon to add that super-premium feel to already top-quality packaging.
There’s no set ‘correct’ packaging combinations - there’s plenty of scope to express yourself, especially if you add unique touches like personalised ribbons and stickers. So, look through the options and consider what would work well together - and if you need a bit of creative advice, just ask us!
5. Fill your hamper
The time has come to pack your hamper! But before you lay in the good stuff, find a filler that will pad out the empty spaces and keep everything properly cushioned. This also forms the backdrop for your gifts, so make sure it complements 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.
6. Pack your hamper
How you should pack the hamper depends on the container you’re using and whether you’ll present it open or closed.
For open hamper boxes:
- Place the largest items at the back to create stability and height
- Arrange medium sized goodies next
- Fill in the remaining space with little things like sweets or tea sachets
For closed hamper boxes:
- Place all the heavy stuff in the middle of your container
- Arrange everything else around the edges
- 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.
7. 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. There are plenty of ways to add some extra wow-factor to your hamper - ribbons, stickers, gift tags, tissue paper, gift wrap… the list goes on.
Some ideas from us:
- Wrap open containers in a cellophane hamper bag for that extra sense of occasion
- Add a personalised ribbon or stickers
- Include a fun tag with a handwritten message to show that you care
We also supply a range of self-sealing transit boxes that will keep everything safe in the post.
Ideas for corporate gift hampers:
Looking for inspiration on how to theme your hampers? 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.
Of course, those are just ideas. There’s plenty of scope to express your creativity - and if you need a helping hand, WBC is here to help.
Shop hamper ideas at WBC
Our hampers are trusted by some of the UK's finest institutions and are recognised for their quality, style and durability.
Whether you’re creating corporate gifts, retail displays or bespoke Christmas collections, WBC can help bring your ideas to life.
Speak to our sales team today and let’s create something memorable this festive season.
