Hampers make the ultimate thoughtful gift. They’re perfect for foodies, a lovely way to spoil friends and family, and a great opportunity to support local businesses. Whether you’re putting together a Christmas hamper, a birthday ‘pamper hamper’, or simply a treat for someone special, the beauty of a hamper is that it can be enjoyed long after the occasion itself.
Here are our Operations Director Yasmin’s tried and tested tips for creating a hamper they’ll remember!
Start with a theme
Think about what your recipient loves, Are they a cheese fanatic? A cocktail connoisseur? A homebody who loves candles and books? Once you’ve chosen a theme, it becomes much easier to curate items that fit together beautifully.
Mix sweet and savoury
For foodie hampers, variety is key. Pair rich cheeses with crackers and chutney, add in sweet treats like macarons or chocolate, and don’t forget a little something to sip! Choosing things that naturally pair well together will also help you curate the perfect hamper.
- Macarons and a tipple
- Candles and bath products
For something special, we recommend the Hilton Macarons Raspberry Macaron Soy Candle, it looks as good as it smells!
Add a personal touch
The best hampers have a thoughtful, handmade element. A hand decorated gift tag or even something homemade like chutney, sloe gin, or festive mulled wine syrup, all show you’ve put love into the gift. Take a look at our homemade balsamic fig chutney recipe. [link to recipe]
Make it beautiful and engage the senses
Think about colour schemes and finishing touches that match the season as well as adding scents and textures to engage all the senses.
- Christmas: rich reds and golds, soft velvet ribbons, dried fruit and nuts, cinnamon sticks
- Autumn: deep greens and browns with cinnamon sticks
- Spring: pastels, fresh herbs and lavender
- Summer: bright colors with floral touches
Include everyone (pets too!)
If your recipient has a pet, why not include a treat for them too? Our ever-popular Canine Crunchies are available at all Two Magpies Bakery locations and make a thoughtful addition.
Something indulgent
Every hamper deserves a little luxury, something your recipient might not buy for themselves, like a decadent truffle, artisanal honey, or locally made hand cream.
Be mindful of perishable items
If your hamper includes food, consider when it’s likely to be opened. Stick to long lasting goodies and avoid too many perishable items that may spoil before they can be enjoyed.
Buy local
Supporting local makers makes your hamper extra special, and helps keep small business thriving all year round, not just at Christmas.
Our favourite local suppliers:
- Stokes – chutneys
- Leigh’s Bees – honey
- Norfolk Natural – fragrances, hand creams and dog cologne
- Earsham Street Deli – cheeses
- Hilton Macarons – indulgent macarons
- Adnams – miniature gins
Think beyond the wicker basket
Traditional baskets are lovely, but there are plenty of creative alternatives. For bread lovers, a proving basket makes a wonderful reusable option. Or go for a stylish tote bag. Our canvas tote bags are durable meaning your recipients can enjoy it again and again.
A final thought
However you choose to pull your hamper together, it’s the care and thought behind the gift that truly matters. Big or small, elaborate or simple, your recipient will feel extra special.
Image credit – India Hobson and the Two Magpies Bakery book