Secret Santa is a holiday tradition that has brought equal parts joy, humor, and mild anxiety (what do you buy for Bob in accounting?) to workplaces, families, and friend groups for decades. 

If you haven’t participated in one yet, you are missing out on the most quirky and funny of gift exchanges. 

But how did it all start? 

Lucky for you, we are sleuths over here at BasketWorks, and we’ve gotten to the bottom of Secret Santa. 

A Tradition Rooted in Generosity

The exact origins of Secret Santa are a bit murky, but the spirit of anonymous giving dates back centuries. 

One of the earliest inspirations comes from Saint Nicholas himself. The 4th-century bishop, known for his secret acts of kindness—like leaving coins in shoes or rescuing families in need—set the tone for the anonymous generosity we associate with modern-day Secret Santa.

Fast forward to the mid-20th century, when the practice began to take shape as a group activity. Some say it started in Scandinavia, where “Julklapp” (or “Christmas knock”) involved leaving gifts on doorsteps, knocking, and running away before being seen. 

Others trace it to the United States, where it gained traction as a creative way to exchange gifts without breaking the bank or leaving anyone out.

The Modern Secret Santa

The Secret Santa we know today—where participants draw names to determine whom they’ll buy a gift for—was popularized by workplace gift exchanges. 

The goal? To add a touch of fun and reduce the stress (and expense) of buying gifts for everyone in the office.

A significant boost to its popularity came from philanthropist Larry Dean Stewart in the 1970s. Stewart, known as the “original Secret Santa,” anonymously handed out $100 bills to strangers in need during the holiday season. His generosity inspired others to embrace anonymous giving, creating a wave of kindness during the holidays that continues today.

Aww. 

Why We Love It

It’s equal parts strategy, luck, and good old-fashioned chaos, making it the perfect way to inject some energy into holiday traditions.

Whether it’s a funny gag gift or something heartfelt, Secret Santa has a way of bringing people together and celebrating the true spirit of the holidays: thoughtfulness, kindness, a sense of community, and walking away the winner because you drew the air fryer. 

🧙‍♂️ SHAMLESS PLUG ALERT 🧙‍♂️ 

Never mind the air fryer, if you were to receive our Gnome for the Holidays Gift Basket, they would erect statues of you wherever Secret Santa is played. This gem starts with a hyacinth basket, accented with a Gnome theme ribbon, and features: Gnome cookie jar; Plush Gnome ornament; Gnome Nog mix; Gnome cocoa mix; Walker’s shortbread; Magnolia Bakery banana pudding cookie, and more. 

It’s time to get your gnome on!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.

I suppose we could be talking about going out on a date or the small but mighty fruits from the date palm tree. 

It’s the latter, though what if you went on a date and ordered dates? Okay, enough. 

Dates have been enjoyed for centuries across the Middle East and North Africa. With their natural sweetness and chewy texture, they’re a versatile snack that’s easy to incorporate into daily meals. But beyond their delicious taste, dates pack a powerful punch of health benefits, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. 

Let’s dive into why dates are nature’s perfect snack.

1. Rich in Essential Nutrients

Dates are loaded with essential nutrients that support overall health. 

They’re a fantastic source of fiber, potassium, magnesium, and copper.

Fiber promotes digestion and regularity, while potassium and magnesium play important roles in muscle and nerve function, making dates a great post-workout snack. 

Copper, on the other hand, supports red blood cell production, boosting energy levels and helping your body function smoothly. For the record, consuming dates is a healthier way to get your daily dose of copper than eating pennies.  

2. Natural Energy Boost

Feeling low on energy? Join the club. 

Dates are a natural energy booster! 

Their natural sugars, including glucose, fructose, and sucrose, provide a quick yet sustained energy release. 

Unlike refined sugars (the bad, bad stuff), which can lead to spikes and crashes, dates offer a more stable energy boost. 

This makes them an ideal snack for busy afternoons, long workouts, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.

However, there is no substitute for coffee, in my expert opinion. 

3. Antioxidant-Rich for Immunity

Dates are packed with antioxidants, including flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acid. 

Duh, who didn’t know that?

These compounds work to neutralize free radicals in the body, which can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and cancer. 

But that’s not all! Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the heart and support immune health, while carotenoids promote eye health. 

4. Supports Bone Health

The nutrients in dates, especially magnesium and calcium, do the bones good. 

These minerals make for strong bones and may help reduce the risk of osteoporosis over time. 

And let us not forget about phosphorus, that thing on the Periodic Table that supports skeletal strength, making dates a bone-friendly addition to a balanced diet.

5. Helps Manage Blood Sugar Levels

To get even more sciency, despite their natural sweetness, dates have a low glycemic index, which means they don’t cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. 

The fiber and antioxidants in dates can help slow down sugar absorption, making them a nice option for people who need to manage their blood sugar levels. 

❄️ SHAMLESS PLUG ALERT ❄️

Speaking of dates, our Snowflake Gift Tower has them and then some. This is the gift that keeps on growing, and it’s so popular that we’ve added another stack. This winner includes: Joolies dates; Magnolia Bakery banana pudding cookies; Popcorn; Dolcetto cookies; Uglies sweet potato chips; Nuts; Gummy bears; Caramels, and more. 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.

Let’s face it—fall has cornered the market on seasonal flavors. 

As soon as that first leaf hits the ground, the world goes all in on pumpkin-spiced cinnamon this and apple cider clove that. 

But how did these beloved flavors become the ultimate taste of autumn? This is the burning question of the day. 

Lucky for you, we’re about to dig into the delicious history behind fall’s favorite flavors.

1. Pumpkin Spice: From Medicinal Roots to Latte Fame 

Pumpkin spice might be the king of fall, but it worked its way up from humble beginnings. 

Long before Starbucks turned it into a global phenomenon, Native Americans used pumpkins in soups, stews, and pies. But the blend of spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—was originally used in medieval Europe for baking and medicinal purposes to soothe digestion.

Then in 2003, Starbucks waved its magic wand and introduced the pumpkin spice latte. It was supposed to be a limited-time thing, but people went wild for it. Now, you can find pumpkin spice in just about anything—candles, cereal, even dog treats. 

Maybe it’s been too played out?

2. Apple Cider: The Colonial Classic 

There’s a reason apple cider is a fall staple—it’s been around forever. 

Back in colonial America, apples were more popular than showers. They were easier to grow than grains, and making cider was a smart way to preserve the harvest. The result? Hard cider became a mealtime staple. Water wasn’t always reliable, but cider? Always dependable.

Fast forward to the 19th century, when the temperance movement pushed for non-alcoholic beverages. Boo!

Enter the sweet, spiced apple cider we know and love today. Now, it’s synonymous with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and cozy nights by the fire.

3. Cinnamon and Cloves: Spices That Traveled the World

These warm spices didn’t just show up on our doorstep, but had Amazon Prime been around, they would have.

Cinnamon and cloves made their way from Asia to Europe through trade routes, where they became prized (and pricey) ingredients in everything from savory stews to sweet pastries. In fact, during the Middle Ages, spices were so valuable they were sometimes used as currency.

Today, they’re the foundation of so many fall treats, like spiced cookies, mulled cider, and cinnamon rolls. And let’s be honest—nothing says fall like the scent of cinnamon filling your home or neither Chicago baseball team being in the playoffs. 

Fall flavors aren’t just tasty; they’re steeped in history and tradition. From the pumpkin spice craze to apple cider’s colonial roots and the ancient trade routes that brought us cinnamon and cloves, these flavors connect us to the past while helping us savor the present. 

🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT (EXCLUSIVE) 🚨

Hot off the presses, we’ve got a brand-spanking new gift basket for you: our BFB (Big Friendly Basket). Built in a reusable crate, this package is loaded with flavor and fun, including, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Smash chocolate waffle cone, Large fig spread, Large water crackers, Double stuffed olives, Bruschetta, Wine cheese, Cheese bar, Large Lillie Q’s buttermilk sweet onion chips, Madeleines, Almonds, Cashews, Honey bourbon pecans,

Bahlsen cookies, and Destrooper cookies. 

And that’s only half of it. 

So many fall flavors, so little time. Enjoy!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.

Studies show that everyone loves apple-picking. 

That’s not true, but a lot of people do. Apple picking is one of the quintessential fall activities. There’s nothing quite like heading to an orchard on a crisp autumn day, basket in hand, ready to pluck the season’s best apples right from the tree. 

Of course you need to lug all of your apples back, but that’s part of the deal. Before you head out for this classic experience, it’s a good idea to have a plan, and we’ve laid it out for you. 

Choose the Right Orchard

Not all apple orchards are the same, so it’s worth doing a little research before deciding where to go. 

For starters, make sure there are enough apples. For real. When the weather is unseasonably warm, as it has been in these parts, there’s not much to harvest. 

Some orchards offer only a few varieties of apples, while others boast dozens. If you have a favorite apple, make sure the orchard has that variety in season. Also, check to see if the orchard offers additional activities, like hayrides, corn mazes, or a petting zoo, especially if you’re bringing kids along.

Orchards often have websites with information about what varieties are ripe and ready for picking, so you can plan your visit for the ideal time. Be sure to call ahead or check their social media for updates on weather conditions or any changes to picking schedules.

Know Your Apple Varieties

People can be picky apple-pickers, because we all have our own preferences. 

Different apples are great for different purposes. Some are better for baking, while others are perfect for eating right off the tree. Here are a few popular varieties and what they’re best used for:

• Honeycrisp: A crisp, sweet apple that’s perfect for snacking.
• Granny Smith: A tart apple that’s ideal for baking, especially in pies.
• Gala: A sweet and mild apple that’s great for both eating fresh and cooking.
• Fuji: Known for its sweetness and firm texture, great for snacking or salads.

If you’re planning to make pies, applesauce, or apple butter, mix and match varieties to get a balance of flavors and textures.

Dress Appropriately

Apple-picking can be a workout, and who knows, maybe your local gym will make a class out of it. 

It’s important to dress appropriately. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be walking on uneven ground. Consider layers since fall weather can change quickly from cool mornings to warmer afternoons. Bringing gloves can also be handy for reaching into trees with thicker branches.

And don’t forget sunscreen and a hat—just because it’s fall doesn’t mean the sun isn’t strong.

🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🚨

And just like that, we’re a few weeks into fall. Did someone say Thanksgiving? I heard it, and with that, we present our Fall Fiesta Gift Basket, built in a seasonal basket, accented with fall leaves and featuring Crunchmaster crackers, pumpkin butter, Anna’s ginger cookies, Sally’s nuts, mulling spices, sweet potato chips, and more. 

Hey, it’s never too early to start planning your Thanksgiving gifts. 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.

Halloween parties are all about fun, costumes, and eating all of the candy corn bowls situated throughout the house without getting busted. 

Minus the candy corn gluttony, being a great guest makes the party even better. Here are five simple tips to help you be the guest everyone’s happy to invite back next year.

1. RSVP on Time

Put yourself in the shoes of the host—would you want to be left hanging after sending out the party invitations? 

Probably not, right? 

Hosts need a headcount to plan food, drinks, and space, so giving them a timely response is, you know, the respectful thing to do. It also helps avoid any last-minute surprises, like running out of snacks, liquor, or squeezing in extra chairs. 

So, do your host a favor and let them know if you’re in or out.

2. Stick to the Costume Theme

The two biggest Halloween party faux pas you can commit are:

1. Not coming in costume
2. Wearing a costume that has nothing to do with the party theme

Arriving as a plainclothes party-goer is just lazy, and coming as Borat if the theme is classic horror makes you look like a contrarian. Plus, it sends the message that you didn’t care enough to join in on the fun, and, in addition to no costume or an irrelevant one, that’s never a good look.

3. Don’t Arrive Empty-Handed

This tip works for just about any gathering, but especially for Halloween parties. 

Even if your host insists they don’t need anything, it’s always a nice gesture to bring a small gift. It could be a bottle of wine, some Halloween-themed snacks, a fun party favor for the host, or a BasketWorks gift basket…oops, too soon for the shameless plug!

It doesn’t have to be extravagant—just something to show your appreciation. After all, the host is putting in time and effort to make sure everyone has a great time. They have to clean up after all of you, too. 

4. Be Respectful of the Space

If the host says, “Make yourself at home,” don’t take them up on that.

Rules differ among households. 

Respect the host’s space—don’t leave a trail of candy wrappers, props, or empty bottles of Zima behind. If there are specific rules like “no drinks in the living room” or “shoes off at the door,” make sure to follow them. 

Clean up after yourself, especially if you’ve made a mess. 

5. Be Mindful of the Time

Don’t wear out your welcome. 

Honor the expression, “You don’t have to go home, but you gotta get outta here.”

As much as your host wants everyone to have a blast, they probably don’t want the party to go all night. Keep an eye on the time, and when it’s starting to wind down, say your goodbyes and thank the host before heading out. If you’re close with the host, offering to help clean up can be a huge bonus. 

🎃 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🎃

Of course, what will put you over the edge when it comes to being the perfect guest is bringing the perfect gift. Seal the deal with our Trick or Treat Gift Basket, featuring Jelly Bellys, caramels, cheese straws, nuts, an assortment of chocolate candy, and more!

Happy early Halloween!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn

When you think of mulling spices, your mind likely drifts to chilly nights, warm drinks, and that comforting, spiced aroma that fills the air during the holiday season. 

Or, you’ve never heard of them, and your mind likely drifts to, “What are mulling spices?”

Mulling spices—typically a blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice—are often used to enhance the flavors of beverages like cider and wine. 

But these spices do more than just make your drink taste like a cozy embrace; they are gluttonous with surprising health benefits, too. 

Let’s explore why mulling spices deserve a spot in your pantry beyond just seasonal sipping.

1. Boosting Immunity

Cinnamon, a key ingredient in mulling spices, is loaded with antioxidants, which help your body fight off infections and reduce inflammation. 

Antioxidants are your body’s defense against free radicals, which can cause damage to cells and contribute to illness (they should make a video game where antioxidants duke it out with free radicals). 

During colder months when colds and the flu are on the rise, sipping on a drink infused with mulling spices can give your immune system a gentle boost, helping you stay healthier through the season.

2. Aiding Digestion

Cloves, another staple in the mulling spice mix, are known for their digestive benefits. 

They have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas (sorry if you’re eating while reading this). Sipping on a warm beverage with mulling spices after a hearty meal can help soothe your stomach and support digestion. Cloves also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce digestive discomfort.

3. Improving Circulation

Cinnamon and nutmeg, both found in mulling spices, are known to help improve circulation. 

Better blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to your organs and tissues, helping them function more efficiently. This can be especially beneficial during the colder months when you’re bundled up and your circulation may be a little sluggish. 

Enjoying a warm cup of spiced cider can be a delicious way to get your blood moving.

4. Fighting Inflammation

It feels like we’re picking on inflammation here. Sorry, not sorry. 

Allspice and cloves, both common in mulling spice blends, contain anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is linked to a variety of health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and even some cancers. 

5. Relaxation and Mood Enhancement

The warm, inviting aroma of mulling spices can have a soothing effect on the mind. 

Don’t take my word for it. Take science’s! The scent of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg has been linked to stress relief and mood enhancement. Next time you’re feeling a little frazzled, sipping on a hot mulled drink might be just what you need to unwind and lift your spirits.

🍵 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🍵

We wouldn’t tease you with a blog post about mulling spices if we didn’t have an awesome product starring these ingredients. I mean, that would just be cruel. Behold, our Fall Fiesta Gift Basket, built in a seasonal basket accented with fall leaves and featuring: mulling spices; Crunchmaster crackers; pumpkin butter; Anna’s ginger cookies; Sally’s Nuts; sweet potato chips; Vosges Walnut marshies, and more. 

Enjoy!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn

There’s something magical about football season. 

The crisp air, the sound of a roaring crowd, grown men wearing jerseys (sometimes not the best look), and the smell of grilled food wafting through the parking lot of your favorite stadium. 

But let’s face it, getting to the game can be a hassle—traffic, parking, and let’s not even talk about the cost of tickets. So, why not bring the excitement of the tailgate to your own backyard or living room with a home football tailgate party? 

Here’s why it might just be the best idea you’ve had all season.

Convenience is Key

One of the biggest perks of hosting a home tailgate is the convenience. 

No need to wake up at the crack of dawn for a noon game to secure a prime parking spot (not to mention the commute home in Chicago’s impossible traffic) or haul a grill and cooler across a parking lot. You have everything you need right at your fingertips. 

Whether you’re firing up the backyard grill or setting out a spread in your kitchen, you can tailor the experience to your liking without any of the logistical headaches.

Control the Menu

When you throw a home tailgate party, you’re in charge of the menu, and that means no settling for whatever food trucks or stadium vendors have to offer. 

That also means you can dole out food assignments. Since you’re allowing people to party rent-free, Uncle Joe can bring dessert, cousin Rex will be on the hook for beer, and niece Gretchen, thank you in advance for the veggie tray. 

But if you insist on tackling everything, you can also whip up all your favorite game day snacks, from classic buffalo wings and sliders to gourmet twists like bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers or a DIY nacho bar. 

Tailgate Without the Tailgaters

Not every fan is a joy to be around, especially when things get heated during a close game. 

At home, you control the guest list, because it’s your party and you’ll cry if you want to, cry if you want to. 

You’ll still feel the excitement, but in a more relaxed, comfortable setting where you don’t have to worry about dodging flying drinks or dealing with overly enthusiastic strangers.

The Best Seat in the House

Unless you have free skybox access with a gourmet spread and open bar, your couch is the best seat there is. 

You’ve got a big screen in HD, easy access to the bathroom, no lines for concessions, and the ability to pause the game if you need a quick break. 

Oh, and if it rains, hails, sleets, or snows, you’ve got a roof over your head. Just check for leaks. 

🏈🐻 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🏈🐻

Idea: if you’re hosting a home tailgate party, you can have a contest and prize for the best homemade dish. 

Or, if you’re a guest, you can bring a gift as a thank you. 

Make said prize or gift our Bear Down Football Gift Basket, which is perfect for Bears fans. This one’s got the book 100 Things Bears fans should know and do before they die, a Bears mug, Bears ticket desk sign, Bears chip clips, J&M cookies, Dipping pretzels, and more. 

Happy home tailgating, and go Bears! 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn

Let’s talk about lavender, because it’s on everyone’s mind. Isn’t it?

Lavender is that lovely purple plant that makes your grandmother’s linen closet smell like a dream and has inspired countless candle makers, soap creators, and, well, just about anyone who enjoys a good fragrance. 

But did you know lavender is more than just a pretty scent? This little botanical wonder has some serious health benefits, and you know we’re going to share them with you. 

Stress? Lavender’s Got You Covered

We all know stress is a regular unwelcome visitor in our lives. 

The soothing aroma of lavender has been known to reduce anxiety and stress levels. It’s not magic; it’s science. 

Lavender contains compounds that interact with the brain’s neurotransmitters to calm the nervous system. When all of your plates are spinning out of control, take a deep breath of lavender essential oil, and let it work its mellow magic.

Sleep Like a Baby 

Raise your hand if your racing thoughts keep you up at night. 

If counting sheep isn’t doing the trick, maybe it’s time to add lavender to your bedtime routine. Lavender has been used for centuries as a natural sleep aid, and there’s a good reason for that. 

Studies have shown that the scent of lavender can improve sleep quality by increasing slow-wave sleep, which is the deep, restorative kind. 

Just a few drops of lavender oil on your pillow or a quick spritz of lavender spray on your sheets, and you’ll be drifting off into dreamland in no time…or in less time than it normally takes you. 

Skin Soother Extraordinaire

Did you know that skin is our largest organ? Surprise! 

Lavender doesn’t just calm the mind; it’s also fantastic for soothing the skin. 

With its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities, lavender can reduce redness, calm irritated skin, and even assist in healing minor cuts and burns. It’s mild enough for all skin types, which makes it a perfect addition to your skincare regimen. 

Got a sunburn? Lavender can help with that. Bug bites? Lavender has you covered there, too.

A Mood Boost

Can smelling something pleasant make you feel better? 

If you’ve been reading this post start to finish then this is a rhetorical question, but if you haven’t, let’s break the suspense.  

The scent of lavender has been linked to mood enhancement, helping alleviate feelings of sadness. Sounds strange, but science is science. 

Lavender isn’t just a pretty plant with a pleasant smell; it’s a powerful natural remedy that can help with everything from stress and sleep to skin care and mood enhancement. Whether you’re using it as an essential oil, a spray, or in its pure plant form, lavender is a versatile addition to your wellness routine. 

🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🚨

And speaking of lavender, you’ll definitely want to check out our Luscious Lavender Pamper Spa Gift Basket, built in a gorgeous slat basket and featuring: Body butter; soap; bath soak;

body lotion; liquid soap; bath bomb; hand cream; lavender candle, and more. 

Make someone’s relaxing day. 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.

Ah, summer sausage—that alliterative seasonal delight. 

Just saying the name conjures up images of backyard barbecues, sunny picnics, and gatherings with friends and family. Come on, say it with me: s-u-m-m-e-r s-a-u-s-a-g-e. 

But here’s the thing: summer sausage isn’t just for summer, and procuring and eating it in, say, winter won’t cause bad luck like walking under a ladder. This cured meat creation has much more to offer, and for crying out loud, we’re here to give it the year-round appreciation it deserves!

Some Summer Sausage History

The History of Sausage 101 was the easiest elective any of us could have taken in college. 

If you missed out 1) shame on you and 2) we’ll do you a sausage solid with this extremely brief history. 

Summer sausage has been around for centuries, originating in Europe where it was created to last through the warm summer months without spoiling. The secret lies in its preparation. By combining beef and pork, adding a blend of spices, and curing it with salt, summer sausage was made to endure. 

This longevity is precisely what makes it perfect for any season.

Versatility at Its Best

The beauty of summer sausage is its versatility. It’s like the Swiss Army Knife of the sausage family. 

Need a quick appetizer for a winter gathering? Slice up some summer sausage, pair it with cheese and crackers, and voilà! Instant crowd-pleaser. How about a protein boost for your spring salad? Dice some summer sausage, toss it in, and enjoy the added flavor and texture.

Now that’s one thoughtful sausage. 

A Perfect Snack

Let’s talk snacking. 

Whether you’re hiking through autumn trails, skiing down winter slopes, or lounging on the beach in the heat of summer—this is sounding like an episode of The Real Housewives—summer sausage is the ultimate portable snack. 

It’s high in protein, doesn’t require refrigeration (thanks to its curing process), and is packed with savory goodness. Pair it with a piece of fruit, some nuts, or even just on its own, and you’ve got a satisfying, energizing snack that beats any granola bar…for several reasons, namely, it doesn’t break into a million annoying un-consumable pieces. 

Gourmet Potential

I’m a fan of not having an ingredient do all the work, which is why I encourage cooking when you have the time, and summer sausage offers a wealth of culinary possibilities. 

It can be a star ingredient in hearty stews and soups during the colder months. Try adding it to a pot of beans, a pasta dish, or even as a pizza topping. The rich, smoky flavor of summer sausage adds a unique twist to any recipe,

Yum. 

Holiday Hero

And let’s not forget the holidays. When the season rolls around, summer sausage is a hero on charcuterie boards. 

An aside: Charcuterie boards must be the biggest entertaining hack there is. You literally don’t cook any of the ingredients, and your guests hail you as a culinary hero for having the presence of mind to neatly organize stuff on a stylish piece of wood. 

Where was I? Summer sausage, right. It pairs wonderfully with various cheeses, pickles, mustards, and bread. 

You know what else? It’s also a fantastic gift! Wrapped in a bow, a package of summer sausage and gourmet crackers makes for a thoughtful and delicious present, and makes you a holiday hero. 

🎁🧺 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🎁🧺

We don’t just talk the sausage the talk, we walk it! To that end, we’ve got and incredible treat called—drum 🥁 roll—the Guy Food Gift Basket, built in a no-nonsense basket, starring: dipping pretzels; mustard; beer cheese; sausage; cashews; poppies cookies; wasabi peas; and 

wine raisins. Larger packages may also include: Think Jerky; chips; popcorn; additional cheeses; crackers or nuts.

Enjoy!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.

The day is quickly approaching when your child will be flying the coop for college. 

For many parents, this is an emotional send off, typically with mixed feelings of pride and sadness…or relief. In spite of the emotions, you’ve got to get your kid packed so they’re ready to ship off the right way. 

Today, we offer practical packing tips to make move-in day smooth and as stress-free-ish as possible.

Start with a Checklist

Every new adventure starts with a checklist, I think. 

Anyway, creating a checklist and committing to it means you won’t forget those essential items like chargers, toiletries, and your kid’s favorite hoodie or tank top, depending on where they’re going to school.  

Break it down into categories: clothing; bedding; electronics; kitchen supplies; and personal items. A checklist not only helps you stay organized but also gives you peace-of-mind that you’ve got everything covered.

I would certainly do some kind of supervising or final check, because if your child forgets something, of course it will be your fault. 

Pack Smart

When it comes to packing, it’s all about maximizing space. 

Use vacuum-sealed bags for clothes and bedding, because they save a ton of space and keep everything organized. Plus, it’s kind of cool to vacuum-seal things. 

Roll clothes instead of folding them—this not only saves space but also reduces wrinkles, and showing up to campus as a wrinkly freshman will not make a good first impression. 

Get your kid bins and baskets for easy transport and to keep their dorm room tidy once they’re all moved in. What happens after that is up to them. 

Prioritize Essentials

Less is more, more or less. 

Your kid’s entire room doesn’t have to be packed. 

Dorm rooms are small, especially if your freshman has a roommate, so encourage them to pack only what they need. Pack only for the season and plan to swap out clothes when they visit home. 

Don’t argue if they want to bring that teddy bear they’ve cuddled with their whole life. There are other worthy battles. 

Coordinate with Your Roommate

Whichever way the kids communicate today, encourage your freshman to coordinate with their roommate ahead of time. 

There’s no need for two microwaves or mini-fridges in one small space. Decide who will bring what to avoid duplicates and make the most of their shared space. Plus, it’s a great way to start building a good relationship with the new roommate with whom they’ll be in very close quarters. 

Pack a “First-Night” Bag

Move-in day can be chaotic, and the last thing your kid will want to do is dig through boxes to find their toothbrush. 

Recommend a “first-night” bag with essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, pajamas, and any medications they might need (and that teddy bear). This way, they can easily settle in and relax after a long day of moving.

Label Everything

Labeling boxes and bins might sound tedious, but so is parenting, and you’ve made it this far. 

A little extra effort now will save you a lot of headaches later. Clearly mark each box with its contents. Trust me, this will make unpacking a breeze and help your kid find what they need without tearing through everything.It’s also a great way to avoid those frantic, “Mom, where’s my charger?” calls.

🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🚨

If you want to be Parent #1, then surprise your freshman with our Collegiate Corner Gift Basket, featuring: Jelly Bellys; Everton butter toffee pretzels; Coffee candy; Peanut butter pretzels; Nibbles snack mix; Garrett’s popcorn; and more. 

You got this!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

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