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A welcome basket is a thoughtful gesture to make someone feel comfortable in new surroundings. They are often given to guests of an event or new arrivals to the neighborhood as a way to welcome and introduce them to the area.
If you are making a welcome basket, you may be wondering what to put inside. We’ve got you covered! Below, we will share examples of four different types of welcome baskets with suggestions for what to put in them, along with a few other tips for how to make your basket special.
Types of welcome baskets
There are several occasions when it is appropriate to give welcome baskets. No matter the reason, it is important to consider the recipient and their needs when deciding what to gift. We suggest adding personal and local details to make it meaningful and useful.
Event guest
When you are hosting an event such as a wedding that requires guests to stay in a hotel, it is customary to leave a welcome basket for them in their room. A basket full of goodies is a wonderful way to greet guests and thank them for attending your event.
When making a welcome basket for an event guest, think about what might make them more comfortable while they are away from home. Basic needs are often covered when staying in a hotel, but you may choose to include a few extra luxuries to help guests relax, such as a sleep mask or cozy slippers. Another approach is to provide practical accessories for the event. For example, for a summer wedding, gift a pair of sunglasses, or for a winter wedding, a pair of gloves.
To help guests get in a celebratory mood, include a bottle of wine or champagne with plastic glasses and a corkscrew. To satisfy late-night cravings after the party is over, supply a variety of snacks guests can enjoy. Make it personal by selecting the couple’s favorite things and coordinating items with the event theme.
Vacation rental
If you have a vacation rental, you know how important guest satisfaction is. If you want to go above and beyond to provide a great experience for your guests, welcome them with an incredible gift basket.
For your rental guests, you may want to provide items that are necessary for an overnight stay but are often forgotten when packing, such as basic toiletry items and first aid supplies. Beyond the basics, add a few nice-to-have gift items to help make their stay more comfortable. This may include things to do like games and movies or snacks they may enjoy between meals. When possible, choose local products to help introduce your guests to what the area has to offer.
For a personal touch, include information on your favorite local spots they may want to check out. Guests will appreciate personal recommendations for the best places to eat and explore. Finally, add a simple souvenir, such as a postcard or magnet, that guests can take home with them to remember their stay.
This collection is pictured in a 13 in x 7½ in x 3½ in wooden gift basket crate by Carpenter Core.
New neighbor
What better way to welcome new arrivals to the neighborhood than by giving them a personalized gift basket? There are many directions you can take for putting together a housewarming gift for a new neighbor. If you want to go the traditional route, purchase a selection of local items including bread, wine, honey, salt or herbs, and a candle. These traditional items have wide appeal, and by choosing local, you also share what the area has to offer.
Then, have some fun and add a few personal touches as well. For neighbors new to the area, introduce them to your favorite local spots by including gift cards or menus to your go-to take-out places. If your city has a sports team, add a hat or t-shirt to help them get in the spirit.
New employee
When a new staff member joins your team, you should do your best to make them feel welcome and comfortable in their new space. To make a great first impression, put together a welcome basket that will do just that.
First, start with some company swag to help them feel like part of the team. Then, add office supplies, snacks, a water bottle, and a coffee mug for comforting little extras. Finish off the basket with menus and vouchers for team-favorite lunch spots or coffee shops nearby.
Conclusion
Sometimes, the littlest things can make the biggest impression. First, consider the occasion when deciding what to put in a welcome basket. Then choose thoughtful, personal, and local items that will make the recipient feel comfortable and help them get to know their surroundings.