OUT OF THE BOX

Gift hampers are the rage this season, but here's what you need to know before you get one

- SANJYT SYNGH

Let's face it. Most gift baskets are uninspired. Arriving in cheap packaging, with stale things or an assortment of items you don't want, wrapped in ugly cellophane. But that's so last season. Today' gifts in a box are luxurious, rich, decadent filled with things that you would hate to part with.

But what should you keep in mind? First, and I can't stress enough on this one. Don't be typical. If you have the energy, then make each hamper specific to the person you want to gift it to or if you don't have the energy to be so specific, make all your hampers in a manner that they reflect you.

Here's a maxim to live by this gifting season-beautiful wrapping demonstrates an added attention to detail. That's not all be experimental with the packaging. As companies are levelling up on what a luxury gift basket entails, ensure you pick up one that reflects your personality, has a bit of fun and is something your loved one would want. For instance, if your nephew has outgrown Pokémon then finding a wrapping or a basket shaped in his latest obsession would make it that much more special for him.