The Gift Source

Oh what to get the person who has everything...

2011-11-14T10:49:00.001-08:00

Oh what to get the person who has everything...

One of our favorite customers is going through tough times with his cancer treatment. After sending all of his doctors thank you gift baskets, he asked that we create another gift basket for a good friend who is looking after his Palm Beach property. He thought she'd be a challenge for us because she has everything and keeps kosher, but you know us...we love a good challenge. Her gift basket contained a gorgeous Stan Herman plush robe, Dearfoam slippers, French soaps, Tea of Life Teas, Chocolate Truffles, Dried Fruit and Nuts, Rothschilds Dip, Crackers, and Aspen Cider mixes.

We know she'll love it!

A "Special Welcome" for the New CEO...

2011-11-10T09:37:00.000-08:00

We were asked to design a large "Welcome to the U.S. and California" gift basket for the new CEO coming with his wife and two children from Scandinavia.

There's no better way to say "Welcome" than with Disney plush, a San Diego Zoo throw, and lots of gourmet goodies to be enjoyed by all.

Another Birthday, Another Challenge...Not for Us!

2011-11-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

Do don't need balloons or firecrackers to get someone's attention.

Ronny loves golf and it's his birthday. We filled a gift basket with goodies that he loves to eat as well as a golf themed box filled with snacks and of course we embellished with imprinted ribbon.

On a Tight Budget?

2011-11-01T07:22:00.001-07:00

On a tight budget? No problem!

The Chancellor's Office at a major local university ordered these custom gifts for her entire Board of Trustees for the Holidays. They're under $20 and filled with a fabulous selection of chocolates, cookies, pretzels and more. The recipients are going to LOVE them!

It's never too early to order Holiday Gifts!!!

Say it with Chocolate!

2011-10-31T07:57:00.000-07:00

One of our clients needed favors for attendees to their "You Make a Difference" event and when they saw these fabulous chocolate bars, they knew they'd found the perfect gift!

You'd be surprised how easy it can be to find your message already done in chocolate. And all of these delicious Belgian chocolates can be imprinted with your company name. How cool is that!

Halloween is a great time to say "Thanks!"

2011-10-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

One of our client's ordered an extra-special gift basket that could be auctioned off for his cousin's charity, Stephen's Soldiers (click on link and while you're there, please vote for Stephen!) We shipped this off to Michigan for him yesterday. The witch to the left makes spooky sounds and her eyes blink too!

Halloween is also a great time to send an unexpected Thank You! to a valued client or special friend. Give A Gifted Basket a call. 800-611-3226 or 619-698-3226.

We love to customize!

2011-10-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

This custom gift basket was designed by A Gifted Basket for a fund raiser for Rady's Children's Hospital in San Diego, CA.

We designed this one for our good friends at Bumble Bee Foods (tuna, salmon, crab, and more.) It contains lots of delicious Bumble Bee products plus we added crackers, nuts and more, and of course, imprinted ribbon. And let's not forget about that big turtle trying to climb up the basket to see what's inside! The winner is going to love him too!

On a tight budget? No problem!

2011-10-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

On a tight budget? No problem! This gift was created for a couple celebrating their 5th anniversary. It had to be all chocolates (2 lbs of French Chocolate Truffles) and scrumptious cookies. We even included individually wrapped gourmet chocolate dipped milk and dark chocolate pretzels and chocolate enrobed grahams. Yum!

If you need help finding the perfect gift, give us a call. A Gifted Basket is here to assist you with all of your gift giving needs.

Kosher AND Diabetic?

2011-10-14T08:28:00.001-07:00

We always love a challenge, but, frankly, kosher shiva/diabetic combo is actually quite common for us.

Here's an example of a Kosher Shiva/Diabetic gift basket ordered by one of our clients (Chancellor, UCSD.) It's filled with delicious kosher items including crackers, Rothschilds dip, great selection of nuts, whole wheat pretzels as well as sugar free candies.

Remember, the more creative we can get, the happier we are because we know we'll make you proud!

Give us a call. 800-611-3226.

Holiday Gift Baskets will be here soon!

2011-08-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

My friend Gini Pedersen and I attended the Celebrate! Convention in Ontario, CA over the August 5th weekend. We had a booth representing Gift Retailers Connection online magazine and had a great time sharing lots of laughs and meeting up with both old friends and new and discovering loads of great new gourmet foods that A Gifted Basket and Cesta will be including in our Holiday gift basket designs.

We'll be uploading new designs on our websites by end of September. As always, order early for best selection.

If you're looking for corporate and/or imprinted gifts, Maple Ridge products or imprinted chocolates, give us a call!

Summer isn't over yet!

2011-08-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

Summer may almost be over but we plan on enjoying those beautiful sunsets and warm breezes through the end of September! Take advantage of our adorable baby gift baskets filled with fabulous keepsake gifts, high quality baby outfits, and goodies for the new parents. We'll even imprint the ribbon for FREE!

~~ SUMMER SPECIAL! ~~

All of our Baby Gift Baskets

are 15% OFF

through September 30, 2011!!!

Call us at 800-611-3226 or 619-698-3226

What's Next CA?

2011-06-23T19:21:00.000-07:00

A Gifted Basket and Cesta will be closed on Friday, June 24th and will reopen Monday morning, June 27th.

Out of 37 million Californians, I'll be one of 300 participants in the first ever California Deliberative Poll this weekend in Torrance.

Work comes before Success

2011-06-20T13:40:00.001-07:00

For all of you brave souls who are attempting to create your best life, whether it be building your own business or launching a change in lifestyle, here's a quote to soothe, encourage and inspire you...

"The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary." ~ Vidal Sasson

June 19th is Father's Day

2011-05-20T08:01:00.000-07:00

June 19th is Father's Day -- will you be ready? We have some really great gifts for Dad.

Whether Dad is into sports, golf, motorcycles, gardening, fixing stuff up around the house, or just loves great gourmet snacks, we have the perfect gift for him.

Does Dad enjoy poker with the guys? A day out on the golf course? Does he have food allergies or is a diabetic? No problem--give us a call and we'll create a spectacular one of a kind gift just for him!

Don't lay an egg this Easter!

2011-04-14T10:02:00.001-07:00

Our Easter baskets are filled with adorable high-quality keepsake plush bunnies or chicks, yummy gourmet chocolates, candies, cookies and more.

Want to stay away from sweets? Why not send spa and pamper products, teas, coffees, savory gourmet, or even gardening basket to someone special.

We can work with any budget and most of what we do is custom so don't be afraid to ask.

Be sure to order soon because Easter is April 24th and will be here before you know it!!!

Celebrate Convention & Trade Show

2011-04-11T19:59:00.001-07:00

Looking forward to attending the "Celebrate Convention & Trade Show" August 4-7 in Ontario, CA.

I'll not only be there for A Gifted Basket and Cesta.Net, but will be there representing Gift Retailers Connection Magazine. If you're in the gift or gift basket business and aren't aware of our publication, I encourage you to check it out here. And click here for your FREE issue!

Become part of our gift community and join our Forum. You'll even be able to sign up for our free Newsletter.

Do you read nutrition labels?

2011-03-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

Just returned from a trip to Santa Fe, NM. While on the plane, I asked for a famous brand of Bloody Mary mix sans the vodka. Thinking this would be a healthy juice fix with a bit of added spice, I was shocked when I read the ingredient label. Yes, one serving was only 70 calories but contained over 1400 mg of sodium (62% daily requirement) and 10 g sugar.

Many years ago we used to put a delicious chicken soup mix in our Get Well gift baskets. Again, when reading the label, I discovered an extraordinarily high sodium content--not something good for someone who has just had surgery or recovering from an illness. We now use a low-sodium chicken soup in our gift baskets.

Be sure to read those ingredient labels!

Encinitas Garden Festival Silent Auction

2011-03-17T08:03:00.000-07:00

Look what we just created for our long-time clients, Bumble Bee Foods, for the 2011 Encinitas Garden Festival Silent Auction!

This tricycle/planter is filled with loads of fabulous Bumble Bee products as well as a Picnic Time Gardening Apron and Gardening Tools.

For more information on the Silent Auction, call 760-753-8615 or contact Nan Sterman at info@plantsoup.com.

For those of you familiar with Nan and her columns in the San Diego Union-Tribune, you know Nan has written fabulous books about water-wise plants specifically for California Home Gardeners.

Encinitas Garden Festival & Tour 2011 April 30 from 10 am to 5 pm

2011-03-17T07:47:00.001-07:00

Natural Spaces Nurtured Places

The Encinitas Garden Festival & Tour is an all-day celebration of community, gardening, and the horticultural heritage of Encinitas.

This year’s event continues a tradition that started in May of 2005 when more than 30 residents of downtown Encinitas opened their gardens for a sell-out event. In April 2006, 1200 people toured more than 20 fantastic gardens in north Leucadia. In May of 2008, 1000 people toured 22 gorgeous gardens in Olivenhain. In April of 2009, we visited 26 gardens in the Composer district of Cardiff-by-the-Sea.

From the Marketplace, participants will begin a self-guided walking tour that features more than 20 gardens of every size and style.

Back in the Marketplace, vendors will offer unusual plants, beautiful garden art, photography and much more. Speakers and organizations will offer information on saving water in the garden, attracting birds and butterflies, gardening with children and other topics.

The Encinitas Garden Festival & Tour is an all-volunteer event that started as an initiative of the City of Encinitas Cultural Tourism committee. Click here for tickets.

Or contact Nan Sterman at Plant Soup.

From the Oceans to the Mountains...

2011-03-01T10:14:00.000-08:00

This is a breathtaking picture of the San Diego downtown skyline flanked by mountains and ocean. Wow, we're so lucky to be living here!

Thanks to signonsandiego.com for this gorgeous picture showing the snow from this past weekend's cold front that dumped snow on all of San Diego's mountain ranges, from Palomar Mountain through the Cuyamacas to the Lagunas in time to make this Sunday vista from Point Loma.

Keeping People Informed About A Loved One

2011-02-21T13:28:00.000-08:00

I have a good friend whose father has been in and out of the hospital recently. Rather than send out emails to friends and family every few days, she communicates about her father's progress via a site called "Care Pages." carepages.com

Each time she updates her blog, Care Pages sends out an email to everyone who has subscribed to her blog. What a terrific resource, especially if you have an ill family member! "CarePages websites are free patient blogs that connect friends and family during a health challenge."

How 'bout those AZTECS!

2011-02-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

SDSU Men's Basketball is currently in 6th place. Can't wait for March Madness!

This team has gone completely crazy and we're SO proud of them!

Go Aztecs!

Meeting and Convention Time

2011-02-17T14:06:00.000-08:00

Meetings and Conventions are gearing up and we're getting busy with hotel amenities and welcome gifts. For San Diego, Palm Springs, Los Angeles, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and most all of Southern California, we're eager to create memorable welcome gifts for your guests.

Gable boxes are always a budget favorite. We've just gotten in a new selection of canvas tote bags for San Diego, L.A. and California. We'll be adding those to our websites in the near future. Stay tuned...

It's 2011!

2011-02-16T13:51:00.000-08:00

I remember celebrating the Millennium, as if it were yesterday. Hard to believe another decade has past.

We want to thank our loyal customers for continuing to support us even though it's been a rough couple of years for many of them/you. We're always here for you and will continue making your gift giving easy, no matter what your budget constraints are.

Last year was not only filled with gift baskets, gable boxes, stacked gifts, gourmet hampers, clever and reusable containers of all sorts, and hotel amenities, but it was filled with wonderful customers who have become trusted friends.

Many of you are still digging out from snow, while others of us feel like we must be on a different planet. Except for the rain today, it's been in the 70's here in sunny San Diego. Our weather report is generally "another day in the mid-70's today!" How I've come to appreciate those forecasts!

Here's to a great 2011 and warmer weather around the country.

2010-11-03T15:14:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the malls at Christmas time? Used to when I was younger. I loved going to the malls with Christmas carols playing and all the beautiful decorations. It put me in the Holiday spirit. But no more crowds and parking hassles for me.

Now that I have gotten older, I have taken to doing most of my Holiday shopping online. I still go to the mall to buy a few things, but not the majority of the gifts anymore.

What about you? Do you enjoy shopping at the malls? Or are like me, and have started doing a lot of your Christmas shopping online?

If you're stuck and don't know what to buy, check us out at A Gifted Basket and Cesta . We have something for everyone! Tell us what you'd like to order, we'll wrap it, pack it and ship it for you.

Thanksgiving is a Great Time to Give Thanks!

2010-10-12T07:48:00.000-07:00

Just realized that it's been nearly two months since I've posted to this blog. Where have those two months gone? Well, we've been busy getting ready for the Holiday Season - a little over two months until Christmas!

If you want your Holiday gifts to stand out from the others, send them at Thanksgiving time. After all, that's what Thankgiving is all about.

We'll be happy to include FREE imprinted ribbon tails with your message, and create a customized gift basket just from you.

It's not too early to begin planning for the Holiday Season. Order early for best selection. Give us a call!

San Diego Hotel Amenities and Welcome Gifts

2010-08-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

Welcome guests staying in San Diego, Downtown, Coronado, La Jolla, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Rancho Bernardo, Chula Vista or anywhere in the San Diego area.

A Welcome gift doesn't need to be expensive, it just needs to be fabulous! Our gable boxes start at $15 and are the perfect welcome snack gift. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns and are perfect when you need many gifts and are on a tight budget.

If you're planning a convention, meeting, conference, trade show, family reunion or any special event in the San Diego region, call us to discuss what we can create to meet your budget! 619-698-3226

Thank You Gift Baskets to Doctors and Nurses

2010-08-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

One of our customers recently had a heart attack and said he got such great care from the hospital staff (Balboa Naval Hospital), he sent several of the hospital teams large Office Party Thank You gift baskets. What a great way to thank your doctors, nurses and hospital staff for a job well done.

Want to say Thank You in a very special way? We'll do all of the work for you -- we'll design, create and deliver that gift basket for you. Give us a call!

Our Customers GET it! And you can too!

2010-08-23T13:41:00.000-07:00

We've been busy creating custom gift baskets for several of our customers who understand the importance of thanking their clients. Let your customers know you appreciate their business by sending a custom gift basket from A Gifted Basket or Cesta California Gift Baskets.

We're always happy to include your imprinted products in our designs and remember, we'll imprint the ribbon with your company's name for FREE!

Give us a call to see how you can best thank your clients for their business!

800-611-3226 or 619-698-3226

Go USC Trojans!

2010-08-13T10:37:00.001-07:00

The USC Trojans are a California institution. If you're an Alumni, Parent, Grandparent, Aunt, Uncle or simply a Friend of a new USC student...how is this for a great "Trojan Welcome" gift?

Like our other Southern California Universities, we think this is a pretty terrific way of saying "Good Luck at School" "Good Luck During Finals" "Happy Birthday" "Missing You" or just "Thinking of You!"

An Official USC Baseball Cap is paired up with lots of great snacks.

Check it out!

Go SDSU Aztecs!

2010-07-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

Attention All SDSU Alumni; Parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Friends of new SDSU students...how is this for an "SDSU Welcome" gift?

We think it's a pretty terrific way of saying "Good Luck at School" "Good Luck During Finals" "Happy Birthday" "Missing You" or just "Thinking of You!"

An Official SDSU Baseball Cap is paired up with lots of great snacks.

Check it out!

Go Bruins!

2010-07-27T08:04:00.001-07:00

Once a Bruin, Always a Bruin. And Sandy is no exception so had to make him happy by creating a Bruins basket.

Take a look at this adorable UCLA fan gift basket. It's filled with an official UCLA hat and lots of snacks and goodies for munching. Everything from Beer Nuts to Tortilla Chips and Caramel Corn. Go UCLA!

But wait...you say you're looking for a USC gift basket? We have those too!

And of course, the Aztecs, since San Diego State University is our hometown college team. And since I spent 17 years of my life working at SDSU, seems only fair we offer a fabulous SDSU gift basket as well!

Go Padres!

2010-07-26T08:41:00.001-07:00

We're in the thick of Baseball Season and (knock on wood!) our Padres are currently in First Place in our Division!

Looking for the perfect gift your favorite Padres fan? How cute is this gift basket! Padres Cap, Randy Jones Baseball BBQ Sauce, Padres Freezer Mug, Beer Nuts, Padres Peanuts, Cookies and Chips.

Quantities are limited so order soon.

Good Luck Horseshoes!

2010-07-23T11:16:00.001-07:00

We're pleased to represent the complete line of Good Luck Horseshoes! These horseshoes are perfect for promoting your film or company! Engrave them with anything you want and put your company logo on the packaging and wish card! Make this a personal gift people will remember! These lucky horseshoes can be engraved with the text of your choice. Wrapped and ready for gift giving! Allow two weeks for delivery.
Check out the complete line at http://www.giftedbasket.com/good-luck-horseshoes.html

California Gift Show

2010-07-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

Returned from the California Gift Show and L.A. Mart's semi-annual shows with renewed energy and we're excited about some of our fabulous finds.

We'll soon be carrying a great selection of the fabulous Stonewall Kitchens multi award-winning products as well as favorite items from their Barefoot Contessa line. We'll continue to carry some of our all-time favorites from Earth and Vine, Hand to Mouth Tapenades, Robert Rothschild Gourmet, Sweet Shop Chocolates and so many other delicious gourmet goodies.

It's not too early to start thinking about your holiday gift giving. Remember, we can work with any budget! And for gift baskets created in-house, imprinted ribbon with your company's name is FREE! Give us a call.

We're baaaaaack!

2010-07-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

Sandy and I returned from 10 days on the East coast (NYC, Philadelphia, Baltimore and D.C.) Had a wonderful time and a great way to spend our 40th wedding anniversary. I think I must have been six when we got married. That's just too young!

In the process of getting our holiday designs ready. You heard correct. It may be in the 80's-100's outside but before we know it, the Holiday Season will be upon us.
Our new designs should be up on our websites by Sept 1st.

Let Us Solve Your Present Dilemma. Give us a call to discuss your holiday personal and corporate gift giving needs. We'll work with any budget and all of our gift baskets now come with FREE imprinted ribbon!

Customized Gift Baskets

2010-06-11T07:49:00.000-07:00

Need to publicize your company? Next time you plan on donating a gift basket for a raffle or silent auction, think of us.

For over 20 years, A Gifted Basket has been creating fabulous standout gifts. We'll be happy to create a one-of-a-kind customized gift basket featuring YOUR ad specialty items!

Planning a meeting, trade show, wedding, or convention in San Diego? Give us a call. We be happy to design your centerpieces, hotel amenities, party favors and more.

Just give us a call at 619-698-3226 or 800-611-3226.

Restauranteur of the Year!

2010-06-09T08:59:00.000-07:00

Kudos to my brother, Michael Rossman, who was voted "Restauranteur Of The Year" by the California Restaurant Association's San Diego Chapter. He's been a Board member for 12 years. This is a prestigious award because it comes from his peers in the restaurant industry. Last week he was given the award at The Gold Medallion Awards Banquet honoring the Best of the Restaurant Industry in San Diego County. The Restauranteur of the Year had a video presentation made that was played on the big screens. Click here to watch the video.

Mike is owner of Terra Restaurant & Bar, Pam Pam Restaurant and Shalom Kosher Catering.

It's All in the Name

2010-06-07T07:05:00.000-07:00

We've all experienced it in our local communities. The mega corporate giants coming into town as local independent businesses are forced to close their doors until all we have left are the main streets that look like every other main street in every other city across the country.

It happens, too, on the internet. The mega giants feel threatened by the smaller independents. We saw this in our own industry when Harry and David threatened the gift basket companies with lawsuits if they used the word "Tower" on their websites. Well, Goliath is on the rampage again and our magazine is one of their targets.

Click here to read the full Story.

The new name of the magazine is Gift Retailers Connection and Connecting is what this new website is all about. The magazine will still come out bi-monthly. The only change will be the name. The next issue will be available July 1st. It will continue to evolve and will be available by subscription.

Father's Day Gift Baskets for A Special Guy

2010-06-06T17:20:00.000-07:00

What to get Dad on his special day is always hard but we're here to the rescue! Tell us a little about Dad, the kinds of things he likes and we'll create a fabulous gift just for him.

We can create great gifts with a golf, baseball, basketball, football, handyman, motorcycle rider, chef, or just about any theme you can come up with. Father's Day is June 20th so you don't have much longer to make your decision. Just give us a call at 800-611-3226 or 619-698-3226 and we'll be glad to assist you.

Just in time for Summer Weddings...

2010-05-13T13:50:00.001-07:00

Wedding Season is here and we're excited to now be offering Wedding Towel Cakes to our selection of gifts and gift baskets. Wedding Towel Cakes make great wedding or wedding shower gifts.

Our Gorgeous Wedding Towel Cakes look good enough to eat, but don't be fooled. They're made of only the very best 100% Luxurious Absorbent, White, Cotton, Extra Thick and Fluffy! The bath towels are extra large and the matching hand towels and wash cloths are equally as fluffy and absorbent.

Our cakes, centerpieces and cupcakes are embellished with your choice of colors for the silk florals and satin ribbon. So Elegant! Just tell us you preferences and we'll do the rest. Just give us a call.

And if you're giving a Wedding Shower? Let us create your centerpieces and party favors. Just let us know your 'colors' and we'll do the rest. The centerpieces come in two sizes to fit your budget. And our little matching "cupcakes" make adorable shower or wedding favors.

On a tight budget but want to give gifts?

2010-04-15T14:24:00.000-07:00

Remember that Staff Appreciation Week is
April 18-24.

Our new "Gift Boxes" are perfect for the budget minded. They can be filled with a combination of cookies, candies and cappuccino.

Priced at just $54 for 6, or $100 for 12, they make the perfect little gift and fit into everyone's budget!

Give us a call at 800-611-3226 and we'll 'make it happen.' Don't wait to order as they're selling fast.

Staff Appreciation Gifts - Administrative Professionals Week - April 18-24, 2010

2010-04-15T14:18:00.000-07:00

The Gallup Organization found that individuals who receive regular recognition and praise:

increase their individual productivity

increase engagement among their colleagues

have better safety records and fewer accidents on the job

are more likely to stay with the organization longer

receive higher loyalty and satisfaction scores from customers

Now is the time to order your gifts for Administrative Professionals Week! We can create the perfect gift for your Special Admin Professional and the rest of your staff.

This is the year when you need to make every dollar count. On a budget? Ordered in multiples, our gifts begin at just $8.35 each.

Don't see exactly what you're looking for? Give us a call at 800-611-3226. We'll be glad to create something unique just for you!

Here Comes the Easter Bunny

2010-03-30T13:27:00.001-07:00

Easter is less than a week away. If you haven't already ordered your custom Easter baskets, last day to place Easter orders for Southern California is Wednesday, March 31st; last day for ordering for San Diego delivery is this Friday, April 2nd.

Happy Passover and Happy Easter!

Gift Entrepreneurs Magazine

2010-03-05T08:46:00.000-08:00

As Senior Editor of Gift Entrepreneurs Magazine, happy to say our first issue is complete and available for FREE! If you're in the gift industry, please let us know how we're doing. If you'd like to write an article, submit photos of your designs, or just give us feedback, we'd love to hear from you.

Mission Statement:

"Gift Entrepreneurs is dedicated to providing high quality solutions to gift retailers and vendors in the form of ideas for creative designs, insightful articles, and valuable resources.

We believe in the success of gift retailers and vendors. Our primary goal is to offer the tools necessary to help both new & existing entrepreneurs start, maintain, and grow their business as the world changes around them.

We are committed to providing our subscribers & advertisers an online publication in a user-friendly format that creates positive relations and maintains credibility and integrity within the industry."

We've Gone Mad Over March Madness

2010-02-25T13:26:00.000-08:00

Actually, it's Sandy who's gone Mad because he loves College Basketball (go Bruins!) and LOVES March Madness.

Visit our website www.giftedbasket.com and click on the March Madness image to learn how you can Win $100 by selecting the Final Four teams and be the closest to picking the final score.

During the month of March, we'll have a basketball hidden on a particular page of our website. On that particular day only, that basket will be 20% off our regular price. When you find our basketball image, you'll know you've found the 20% off gift basket for that day.

And...Use coupon code MARCH10 for ANY of our gift baskets (with the exception of Florals, Regionals, Wine, Dropship or the special daily 20% off gift basket) during check out. When you use this coupon code any time during the month of March, you'll receive 10% off the gift basket portion of your order.

FREE imprinted ribbon!

2010-02-25T07:19:00.000-08:00

We're now giving you a FREE message on ribbon!

To personalize your gift baskets even more, you can now say "Happy Birthday, Danny" "Welcome to San Diego" "Happy Mother's Day, Mom" "Happy Anniversary Bob and Mary" or just about any special message you'd like to include.

Unfortunately, we cannot add imprinted ribbon to Florals, Regional Baskets (other than those for San Diego), Wine Baskets or Dropship Picnic Items.

We hope you'll take advantage of this new value added.

Another cup of coffee...please

2010-02-22T07:36:00.000-08:00

My friends on the East Coast are still digging out from the snow.

And those of us on the West Coast are waking up each morning and wondering if it's going to be a shorts and flip-flops day or do we pull out umbrellas yet again.

Seems like just as the puddles are drying up, the weather gets back to the 70's and 80's and wham! The rains come again. Not that I'm complaining because we've been in a drought for sooooo long!

For those of you looking for ways to help those in need, you can take your seldom used blankets to your local fire station for distribution to those who can use the warmth this winter.

Valentine's Day 2010

2010-02-09T12:26:00.000-08:00

Forget same old, same old flowers and think unique gift and gift baskets for Valentine's Day!

Choose from delicious gourmet goodies and delectable chocolates to adorable plush animals and spa products.

What better way to say "I Love You" than by giving a beautiful picnic basket filled with gourmet foods ready for sharing a romantic lunch.

How about a beautiful Italian food gift basket filled with delicious Italian pasta, sauce, coffee, and more.

Or give the gift of relaxation by giving a beautiful bath and body gift basket.

We'll be happy to design a custom creation just for you!
Give us a call. February 14th falls on a Sunday this year. We won't be delivering gift baskets on Sunday but will be delivering on Saturday, February 13th.

Valentine's Day Gift Baskets

2010-01-05T09:13:00.001-08:00

It's never too early to start thinking about Valentine's Day. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or just want to say "I Love You!" let us create the perfect vehicle to relate your message.

This little "Puppy Love" gift basket is just $39.95. Puppy Love? Well, even that deserves a gift basket for Valentine's Day!

Remember to order early. Valentine's Day is always February 14th but this year it falls on a Sunday which means you'll need to order by early February to get your gift delivered on time.

If a little 'naughty and nice' is what you're looking for, we've got those goodies too! Just ask. :-)

Happy New Year!

2009-12-28T07:58:00.000-08:00

Seems like yesterday that we were welcoming in the year 2000, and here we are, already a decade later welcoming in 2010.

What better way to start the New Year than to send a "Happy New Year" or "Thank you for your business in 2009, looking forward to a great 2010!" gift basket.

If you need help creating a design specific to your company, please call us and we'll customize a spectacular design just for you. Call at 800-611-3226.

May you all have a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!

Holiday Gifts to Meet Any Budget

2009-12-01T09:23:00.000-08:00

If you're working with a tight budget but want a lot of bang for your buck, Santa's Stack is it! This gift is part of our "green" collection -- no basket, no shred, just lots of delicious goodies beautifully gift wrapped and only $29.95.

We're NOT talking about itty bitty 1 and 2 oz portions here. Monet Crackers, crispy Windmill Cookies, delectable Old Dominion Chocolate Covered Peanut Brittle, King Leo Soft Peppermint Puffs, Northwood's Cheddar Cheese with Dried Cranberries, and a beautiful candy cane! Enough for a family or a small office. Food portion is a generous 10" x 13" -- Santa would be so pleased!

If you're looking for Maple Ridge Farms corporate gifts, it's still not too late but time is running out to get your gifts delivered by Christmas. What are you waiting for? Give us a call at 800-611-3226.

Six Weeks 'Til Christmas

2009-11-13T07:26:00.000-08:00

Sounds like a lot of time to do your holiday shopping but it really isn't. For business and corporate gift giving, time is running out.

Busiest shipping day for the holidays this year will be Dec 14th. Make sure your gifts are purchased well ahead of that date.

Maple Ridge Farms and Chocolate, Chocolate logoed chocolates, need approximately 10 working days before your custom orders are ready for shipping out. Don't wait!

If you need fabulous party favors or decorative holiday centerpieces, we can help with those items as well.

Give us a call at 800-611-3226. A Gifted Basket and Cesta Gift Baskets is ready to help you with your custom designs.

Reasons to Give Gifts at Thanksgiving

2009-10-20T09:07:00.000-07:00

We, in America, think of Thanksgiving as an American holiday rather than a religious one, but the truth is that wherever cultures have farmed and gathered crops, they have celebrated the harvest.

Thanksgiving gift baskets won’t offend or clash with religious beliefs. Whether given as business or personal gifts, Thanksgiving gift baskets are welcomed by all.

When you send a Thanksgiving gift basket, it’s likely to be the only one or one of very few that are received at that time so your gift will be a welcomed standout. Thus, they will capture the attention and appreciation of the recipient well before the onslaught of the Christmas and other December holiday gift baskets.

Businesses can give beautiful Thanksgiving snack gift baskets with fall themed products in gorgeous autumn colors of the season. Or, you can customize your gift to each recipient such as giving a sports theme if you know the recipient is an avid football fan.

For personal gifts, your Thanksgiving gift basket can be an Italian dinner basket or a gift basket full of after-dinner treats for the family.

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to show appreciation for the bounty of the year, to pause from work, and enjoy time with family and friends.

(thanks to Dr. Flora Brown)

Halloween Gift Baskets are Sweet!

2009-10-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

Send an unexpected Halloween gift basket filled with all sorts of sweet goodies.

What a great way to say "Thinking of You."

Halloween gift baskets make great corporate gifts to say "You're 'sweet' and we appreciate your business!"

Let us fill your Halloween gift baskets with candies and snacks for an office to share; maybe a Halloween plush or even Halloween toys.

Order your Halloween Gift Baskets by October 28th, please. "Witch" ever way you decide to go, just give us a call.

Diaper Cakes...the New HOT Baby Gift!

2009-09-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

Want to give a real standout gift that will be remembered for years to come? Check out our adorable diaper cakes for new babies!

Three tiers of Pampers diapers are used to create these masterpieces. Select from My Barnyard Friends which includes a Barnyard Tote and 4 cute as can be barnyard animals; Un-FROG-gettable which includes a froggy plush along with a matching Un-FROG-gettable onezie; and more. Each diaper cake sits upon a silverplated tray, is cello-wrapped and tied with a beautiful bow--the perfect presentation!

Have a special request? Give us a call and we'll be glad to help!

Maple Ridge Farms Early Order Discount

2009-09-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

For companies looking for items with their company logo consider Maple Ridge Farms.

Freshest and best tasting gifts available, individual shipment directly to your recipients, on-time shipment, exceptional value. Great business gifts! Discounts on Large Orders! Kosher available on many items. Please allow approximately two weeks from approval of artwork until product can be shipped out. Absolute Minimums apply. Quantity Discounts.

They offer gift towers, boxed gifts, gifts designed in wooden trucks, Post-It Note holders, hardwood pen and pencil cups, crystal bowls, wooden cutting boards and more.

Maple Ridge Farms is offering a 15% discount for early orders placed no later than October 31, 2009! They will schedule your shipment as late as Dec 4th. Call us at 800-611-3226 to place your order.

A Gift Within A Gift: When the Container is an Integral Part of the Gift Itself

2009-09-10T07:20:00.000-07:00

In these tough economic times, we're doing everything we can to not only make gift giving affordable, but giving the most value is one of our top priorities.

A design such as this is not only brimming with delicious gourmet foods, but the container is a gift in itself. This 'copper' lacquered tray will be a cherished gift for years to come.

If your budget permits, we love using trays, picnic baskets, magazine racks and keepsake containers when creating gift baskets. They make the perfect 'Thank You' gift for the Holidays or for any occasion. If you'd like us to use a specific container for your gift baskets, please call us and we'll do our best to make it happen.

If you're on a tight budget and you need corporate gifts, let us know and we'll source products for your company and their gift giving needs.

Centerpieces and Decor for Special Events

2009-08-23T19:36:00.001-07:00

This little sand pail was created to not only decorate the tables at the Marriott in Coronado, but to allow the grandchildren of the host and hostess and the other young guests to partake of the goodies inside the centerpieces.

We filled each sand pail with flip flops, stuffed sea creatures, beach toys and lots of glitzy sea decorations. Out of the 170 attendees, there were about 20 children, who as the party was ending, began dancing in their fancy clothes wearing their new flip flops and playing with the toys from each centerpiece. It was an adorable ending to a spectacular event.

Can you see the beautiful downtown San Diego skyline?

In keeping with the theme of the party, we designed beach baskets for the buffet tables and filled them with with flip flops, sunglasses (large and small), beach 'noodles' and beach toys. They added even more glitz to the theme.

Having an event? Let us help you theme your party or special occasion. We can help with centerpieces, party favors and give you loads of ideas to make your party spectacular!

If your event is in Southern California, we'd love to work with you. If your event is outside of our area, we'd be happy to recommend a talented resource in your part of the country.

Sensational Seasonal Holiday Gift Baskets

2009-08-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

We've started adding new designs to our Holiday Gift Collection.

Along with our more traditional holiday favorites and best selling designs, we're adding a great value-added component to many of our designs--the "Gift Within a Gift" where a keepsake container such as a serving tray or magazine rack is an important element of the gift.

As in the past, we'll embellish your gift baskets with your choice of colors, holiday (generic holiday, Christmas, Chanukah, Thanksgiving, New Year's) and we're pleased to offer unique Kosher, diabetic and "green" designs. Just tell us your preference. We're happy to offer...

* Wide selection of gifts to meet your budget--just ask
* Free imprinted ribbon to your corporate designs
* Corporate Holiday Gift Baskets designs created expressly for your company
* Keepsake Holiday Gifts
* Gourmet and Chocolate Gifts with your Corporate Logo
* Centerpieces and Themed Party Favors for your Holiday Party

For the best selection, remember...it's never too early to discuss your Holiday Gift Giving needs. Just call us at 619-698-3226 or 800-611-3226. We'd love to discuss custom designs for your business and to help you source specific products for your gift baskets.

Please visit our websites often to see what new items have been added to our Holiday Gift Basket Collection.

Living with Diabetes

2009-08-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

"There are 23.6 million people in the United States, or 8% of the population, who have diabetes. The total prevalence of diabetes increased 13.5% from 2005-2007. Only 24% of diabetes is undiagnosed, down from 30% in 2005 and from 50% ten years ago."

With these kinds of statistics, just about everyone knows someone who suffers from diabetes. The next time you need a birthday, anniversary, holiday or sympathy gift basket for someone with diabetes, please visit our website http://www.giftedbasket.com/healthy_gift_baskets.html. Healthy foods for diabetics are much more than just "sugar free" candies. We have delicious low-carb food items (carbs turn to sugar) as well as sugar free goodies. Give us a call and we'll be happy to put together the perfect gift basket for a Diabetic.

With so many people affected by diabetes, the American Diabetes Association has compiled diabetes statistics on the impact of the disease and its complications. For just about everything you want to know about Diabetes, contact the American Diabetes Association at http://www.diabetes.org. Their website site covers Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Diabetes Risk Test and much more.

Oh, Baby!

2009-08-13T08:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, our son, Bryan, turned 36. I must have been 12 when I had him because I sure don't feel old enough to have a 36 year old. Another reminder to me that time really does fly by.

I'm one of those people who can't seem to part with things, and every year on both Amy and Bryan's birthdays, I am reminded of the wonderful keepsake gifts we received when our babies were born. Along with all of the cards I've received over the years from both of our children, I still have, among other things, their first teddy bears and all of the great keepsake gifts that were given to them.

Guess that's why I so love to include keepsake gifts into the new baby gift baskets that we create. I love "Baby's First Baseball" and our "Block to Grow On" porcelain bank where there are places to fill in weight and height at specific ages and so much more info. And our little Bunny coats and capes are unbelievably adorable! "Baby's 1st Handprint Kit" and "Plant a Tree for Me" kit for planting a tree in honor of that precious new baby.

Someday, when I'm ready to part with my precious momentos, I hope my children will treasure them as much as I do.

Green Gifting

2009-08-07T07:54:00.000-07:00

We've always been concerned with recycling, repurposing, and using biodegradable packing products, but with our planet ever-changing, we feel a responsibility to do our part and hope that others will join us in embracing the eco-friendly life style.

Our gift offerings include more 'green' products, using less paper and shred in the bottom of our gift baskets, and doing more 'carpooling' with UPS. This does not mean that quality or service is sacrificed one bit; it just means we're looking to make simple changes that will help to make life better for everyone.

We can all do our part by adjusting our thermostats, changing to fluorescent bulbs, bringing our own reusable shopping bags to the market (see our line of Envirosax!), buying more organic and recycling whenever possible.

CLICK HERE for links to saving the plant resources to help learn and be part of this new life-changing phenomenon.

Maple Ridge Farms Discounts for Early Christmas Orders!

2009-08-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

Maple Ridge Farms is offering a 15% discount on orders placed by October 31, 2009 and shipped no later than December 4, 2009! For those of you who ordered last year, there is a 20% discount if your order is placed by October 31, 2009!

"Founded in 1979, Maple Ridge Farms is the largest company in America specializing in corporate food gift programs. We have built our business on one, fundamental principle: Your gifts should be recognized for their outstanding quality and exceptional flavor! We guarantee that every gift is one that you will be proud to give (and would be happy to receive).

Business gifts are our only business. After 25 years of listening, we understand what you need. We also know what customers, clients and employees expect and enjoy. So take advantage of our expertise, sit back, relax, and enjoy the holidays.

Our quality is quite simply, the best. Whether it's the richness of our handmade chocolates, the crunchy freshness of our fresh-roasted nuts, or the exceptional flavor of our smoked meats, we've built our reputation on high standards of excellence.

We ship on-time. Nothing is more frustrating than gifts shipped late. We've developed a 'fail-safe' system to process your order quickly and correctly. In fact, since 1979 we have shipped over 99.9% of all orders on time."

Their catalog is online at www.mapleridgefarms.com

We'll be happy to discuss the Maple Ridge Farms products with you. Please call us at 800-611-3226 for more information and to place your order.

Promote Your Business With Chocolate

2009-07-31T11:06:00.000-07:00

We did a lot of taste testing when we were researching the best company to handle our personalized chocolate orders, and without hesitation, Chocolate, Chocolate was the best! We've been working with this company for over 10 years and all of our clients rave about their orders!

The combination of your unique design and the exquisite flavor of 100% Premium Belgian Chocolate ensure your Custom Collection gift will make a lasting impression. From customized chocolate business cards and promotional or trade show items to chocolate bars with customized labels and chocolates created in just about any shape, customized chocolates make the perfect one-of-a-kind gift for your company or organization. Your beautifully engraved logo, message, or artwork will make your gift stand out every time.

To see the complete Chocolate, Chocolate line, click here. Give us a call at 800-611-3226 or 619-698-3226 and we'll be happy to walk you through the process from selecting designs to submitting artwork and shipping options. Please allow two weeks for custom orders.

Planning An Event?

2009-07-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

We recently delivered dozens of adorable Southern California/Disney themed gift totes to Anaheim for an iBAHN meeting. We filled California themed canvas totes with yummy Southern CA goodies and topped each of them off with an adorable Disney plush. The attendees loved them!

Not only do we create centerpieces and hotel amenities in San Diego, but we deliver to Carlsbad, Los Angeles, Anaheim, Orange County, Palm Springs and Newport Beach. Did you know...if you're having an event and need centerpieces and/or welcome gifts just about anywhere in the country, our network of terrific gift basketeers can deliver! Planning an event? We'd love to help. Just give us a call.

"Word of Mouth" - Most Cost-Effective Form of Advertising.

2009-07-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

Just returned from my weekly networking group meeting. A good networking group is a great way to 'grow' your business. Our meetings are structured but somewhat informal. We believe in building relationships because networking is so much more than just passing out business cards. I, personally, would never recommend someone unless I had first hand knowledge of their ethics and expertise. Being in a quality networking group allows me to get to know the other members and the quality of their work.Our group focuses on the development and exchange of quality business referrals amongst it's members. We only allow one member per industry so there is no direct competition within the group. The goal of our group is to assist our members by providing ways for them to increase their business. We do this by referring people we know, who can utilize the products and services provided by the member."

If you're looking for a networking group, there are many ways of finding a good one. Contact BNI, Lead International, or any one of the hundreds of independent networking groups throughout the U.S. If you're in San Diego, CA and looking for networking opportunities, please feel free to contact me or go to the Accredited Business Networking Group of San Diego website: www.abngsandiego.com for more information.

Summer is Travel Time

2009-07-28T10:31:00.000-07:00

We've been busy creating Welcome to San Diego gift baskets and totes. After all, who wouldn't love a great gift basket when they check into their hotel room!

"Thank you very much for your assistance with the gift basket. It was delivered properly to the La Jolla Shores Hotel, as promised, and the hotel placed it in our room. My family was surprised and delighted with the basket. It was beautiful, and everything was so delicious. In fact, my son wants to know where we can get more of the Maple Leaf Cremes.
Thanks again." Steve M.

--------

In conjunction with our colleague Trish Almasy, we again worked with the Arthur Murray people to create welcome gifts for this year's meeting attendees in Washington, D.C.

"Just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for the beautiful gift towers that were delivered. They were so visually striking and all the treats were very much appreciated today as we were out touring the city. I heard so many great compliments, not only from my guests, but from the hotel staff here at the Four Seasons. Please pass on my thanks to the local folks here. Once again, you were a great help with a great product!" Tara