How to Make a Food Hamper Worthy of a Posh Deli

A hamper filled to the brim with tasty treats is the ultimate Christmas indulgence, but it doesn’t have to cost the earth, says Vicki Hitchcock, manager of The Hungry Guest food store in Petworth. Every year she puts together hundreds of hampers, so she knows a thing or two about creating the perfect gift…

1. * The first question to consider carefully is: who is the hamper actually for? Should the contents be practical or frivolous? I’m sure you’ve experienced that pang of disappointment when you open a beautifully wrapped gift, promising something really lovely, only to find something you would just never choose or even use.
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3. * A hamper represents luxury and indulgence, so should be filled with all the things the recipient enjoys. If they love chocolate, fill it with quality chocolate buttons and handmade truffles.
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5. * Next, consider the cost as it is very easy to get carried away! A hamper definitely doesn’t need to be expensive, just thoughtful. If you’re on a budget, choose carefully.
   
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7. * Also, a hamper doesn’t necessarily need to be a wicker basket; if someone loves gardening, for example, then put the goodies in a lovely metal pail.
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9. * On a practical note, try not to fill the hamper with things that need to be cooked (unless, perhaps, it is for a house-warming present). They’re much better filled with goodies you can crack open and immediately enjoy!
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11. * Next, think about delivery. Ideally you want to drop it off by hand as hampers are so much more impressive presented fully decorated with the lid up. When preparing an open hamper, pack it with lots of straw and make sure you add lots of height at the back. Make sure that all the produce is visible, face up and angled following a fan shape.
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13. * If you have to close your hamper in order to post it then make sure you lay all the heavy items at the bottom and lighter items at the top. Line the sides and bottom with straw and pack it around each item so that everything is safe and the recipient can discover each new item like a lucky dip!
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15. The Hungry Guest have a stunning selection of artisan hampers available this Christmas including the gorgeous Best of Sussex hamper (pictured below). For more information and to buy online visit https://shop.thehungryguest.com/