Gift baskets are a great gift idea for any occasion, but even for the most seasoned gift giver among us it can be overwhelming to put one together. Read on for some great basket filling ideas to get you through the year.

Valentine’s Day is the first big gift-giving holiday of the year so start it off right with a great gift basket. Of course you’ll want to start with a basket that suits the theme of love, so choose something red or heart shaped - there are so many great heart shaped baskets and boxes out there you’re sure to find one your sweetheart will love. Now fill it up with tokens of your affection such as chocolates, conversation hearts, a stuffed animal and something fun like tickets to a movie to complete your date for a fun basket. For a little more of a mature vibe, go with a nice bottle of wine, some Valentine’s Day themed wine glasses and some good cheese - and an elegant piece of jewelry never hurt, either. As the year flies by, you might find yourself invited to a picnic or party for the 4th of July. Bring the host a small gift basket that includes some sparklers, party poppers,red white and blue cloth napkins, a few bottles of micro-brewed domestic beers, and some citronella candles. Trust me, you’ll be invited back next year!

When your Aunt Sally invites you over for Thanksgiving dinner, don’t forget to show you’re thankful by bringing a little something just for her. A small cornucopia with small gourds and maize along with something fall-ish like maple butter, maple cookies, or mini apple and pumpkin pies will be sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Do your part to contribute to the day by including a nice cheese ball and crackers for a quick appetizer or bottle of red wine as well.

Gift Baskets make festive Christmas gifts for anyone on your list as well. They can be as small or as elaborate as you’d like, which allows you to stay within your budget. If you have a lot of gifts to give out at the office, a nice holiday mug with some candy canes, chocolates, and single pot packs of gourmet coffee are easy, inexpensive, and sure to please. Bigger baskets can include anything from toys, coloring books, crayons, and small candies for the kids to fancy pastas, sauces, and cool cooking gadgets for the cook in your life. A book lover will enjoy a portable LED reading light, bookmarks, and a snuggie - the perfect set up to snuggle up on the couch with a good book on a cold winter’s day.

End your year of awesome gift giving by bringing your New Year’s Eve party host a gift basket complete with party hats, noisemakers, a couple of disposable cameras, and some champagne for that midnight toast.

You’ve made it through the whole year of gifting, you’re a pro now! Remember to have fun when you’re giving gifts and never fear - there are plenty of places online to buy a premade gift basket if you’d rather let someone else worry about the details. The best part? You still get all the credit!