by Lisa Beach

Created on: July 15, 2009   Last Updated: July 17, 2009

Every anniversary basket should be as special as the two people sharing that special day, and the best way to do so is to keep the couple's personalities and heart in mind. Things like budget, basket, and how long the couple has been married matter as much as the couple themselves.

First, even a small budget can create something that looks large and sumptuous. If there's one thing basket-givers want, it is to put as much thought and love into a gift as their cleverness allows.All basket builders can make the small seem large with just a little work, and clever design. If one's budget is small, then so be it, one must simply be very choosy about what will make it into the creation.

One's first step is to make a list of the couples favorites, etc.: one should not add something merely because s/he likes it - the couple may not. So what do they like? Wine? Going on trips? Flowers? Are they family-oriented, or have unusual hobbies? These things need to be considered, as they offer possibilities to add just the right charming touch.

For example, if they love wine, on a small budget, a person could use a gift "basket" that is actually a box with a lid, - the entire box is covered with a wine-country motif. The lid may be positioned to act as a stabilizing backdrop, and pretty shred can be used. To make the basket even more stable, add crushed newspaper under the shred.

It is at this point one adds personality to the gift. A bottle of wine that accents the shred can be used, as can a very small box of Godiva chocolate truffles. Both create a sumptuous treat.

Next, one could add a picture of the couple in a nice frame, either of them doing something fun or sweet, or of a past, fond memory - maybe something taken on the day of their marriage. Add a couple of small candles as well; preferable in holders that go with the colors of the basket, and something intimate you know they will love. Maybe that something could be 2 tickets to the opening of a play, or art gallery; to a newly opened botanical garden, tour of a winery, etc. Whatever is included will show the couple you care.

To finish off the gift, one should add silk florals here and there. Some sort of vine-looking greenery twisting around the handle or lid of the basket is nice, or maybe a small bunch of fake grapes. Little whimsies throughout give it more charm.

On a medium budget, the best first choice is to use what is called "floral foam", instead of crushed newspaper. It's relatively inexpensive and

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