Author Archives: Lise

How to Write a Thank You Card: A Guide for the Gratefully Baffled

Writing a thank you card is a delicate art, much like making a soufflé without a meltdown. 

But fear not! In the world of gratitude, where emotions run high and the price of stamps runs even higher, I’m here to guide you through the labyrinth of thank you card writing. Grab your favorite pen, find a card that doesn’t feature cartoon animals (unless that’s your style, of course), and let’s dive in.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Card

First things first: you must choose the perfect card. 

Anything less than perfect, and it’s all over. Actually it’s not. Just needed a little dramatic effect. 

Now, this isn’t akin to choosing a life partner, but let’s not trivialize the matter. The right card speaks volumes about your appreciation level. 

Go for gold embossed letters if you’re feeling fancy or a simple, elegant design if minimalism is your game. Remember, glitter is like cilantro: some people love it, others feel like it’s attacking their senses.

Step 2: Addressing the Elephant (or the Recipient)

This is where you write the person’s name. Not your name, your dog’s name, or the name of your favorite celebrity. 

Start with “Dear [Person’s name],” if you’re traditional, or “Hey [Nickname],” if you’re feeling adventurous. But let’s keep “Yo” or “Sup” for texting, shall we?

Step 3: Thanking with Style

Now comes the fun part. Here, you’ll attempt to put your gratitude into words without sounding like a Shakespearean actor auditioning for a soap opera. 

Begin with “Thank you for…” and then describe the gift, favor, or reason. If you’re struggling, just be honest: “Thank you for the sweater. I appreciate the time you took to choose something in my favorite color: invisible.”

Step 4: The Personal Touch

You’ve nailed the thank you part, and now for a dash of personality. 

This is where you can be creative, thoughtful, or mildly humorous. For example:

“I can’t wait to wear the sweater at family gatherings, where it will surely outshine Aunt Gertrude’s infamous casserole.”

Step 5: The Grand Conclusion

Here’s where you wrap it up.

A simple “Thanks again,” followed by “Sincerely,” “With love,” or “Yours appreciatively” will do. If you feel like leaving a cliffhanger, that’s up to you, but this isn’t a season finale, it’s a thank you card.

Step 6: The Signature

Sign your name. 

If you’re worried your signature looks like the work of a toddler holding a crayon, you’re not alone. Just remember, it’s the thought that counts.

Step 7: Address, Stamp, Send!

Finally, address the envelope, put a stamp in the right corner (not the left, we’re not anarchists here), and drop it in the mailbox. 

Take a deep breath; you’ve just sent a piece of tangible appreciation through the mail. Celebrate with a dance, a cookie, or both.

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

Speaking of ways to say thank you, there’s no better way to do it than with our Down Time Relaxation Gift Basket, replete with a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, wine cheese, chocolates, crackers, and more! 

Don’t forget the thank you card. 

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 and LinkedIn.

How to Build a Heartwarming College Care Package

It’s that season again! 

No, not the annual synchronized squirrel migration, but that special time when our beloved offspring, otherwise known as “college students”, flock to their academic nests, leaving a void in our homes. 

To fill this void (and keep our sanity), we resort to an age-old tradition that involves more love than a Valentine’s Day card and less judgment than Aunt Martha’s fruitcake: the college care package.

Now, you might be wondering, “How do I create a heartwarming college care package that won’t end up being used as a doorstop or traded for an off-brand energy drink?” 

Fear not, dear parents; would we ever steer you in the wrong direction?

1. First-Class Food

Since time immemorial, college students have been known to sustain on a diet of Ramen and hope. 

So, let’s give their microwave a break and their taste buds a treat. Homemade brownies, trail mix, granola bars, or any non-perishable goodies are a fabulous start. But remember, a little surprise wouldn’t hurt. Throw in that spicy beef jerky or those hot Cheetos they love.

2. Mental Munchies

Trust me, even the biggest bookworm craves some literary relief after the twentieth chapter of “Advanced Theoretical Quantum Mechanics.”

Slip in a comic book, a gripping thriller, or even that guilty-pleasure gossip magazine. Not a fan of print? An audiobook or a streaming service gift card can be an oasis in the desert of textbooks.

3. The Practical Parcel

It’s not all about indulgence. I mean, it should always be, but that’s for another blog post. 

From a pocket-sized first aid kit to an all-purpose Swiss knife, practical items are always appreciated (although not as much as the brownies). Laundry pods, hand sanitizers, and extra-long phone charging cables make it into the Hall of Fame of this category. 

For an extra laugh, include a hilariously out-of-place item like a ‘how to survive a zombie apocalypse’ guidebook. They’ll appreciate your consideration for all potential crises. Or they may just roll their eyes. Either way, you’ll get a reaction. 

4. Personal Touches

These items are the proverbial cherry on top. 

Think pictures of the family pet in ridiculous costumes, a heartfelt letter, or even an embarrassing childhood toy. It reminds them of home and, more importantly, it gives them something to show off (or blackmail material, depending on how you see it).

So, take these tips, add a pinch of creativity, a splash of humor, and loads of love. Voila! You’ve just prepared the perfect recipe for a heartwarming college care package. And remember, if all else fails, you can always resort to including cash. You know, for those “educational expenses”… or more hot Cheetos.

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

Jeez, if only there were a gift basket to shamelessly plug here to match the theme…

Oh yeah! How about our Collegiate Corner Gift Basket? This winner is stocked with: Cookie Dough Dibble Bites; ready-to-drink liquid brew coffee, Tate’s Tiney cookies; peanut butter bites, Jelly Belly’s; Garrett’s popcorn, 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 and LinkedIn.

The Origin of Beer: What You Need to Know

Welcome, ye thirsty seekers of knowledge! 

You’re not just here for the suds; you want to know where your beloved brewski came from. Pull up a bar stool as we embark on a hop-fueled journey back in time to uncover the frothy origins of the world’s favorite adult beverage.

The Dawn of Inebriation

Let’s turn back the clocks to around 7,000 BC, when our ancestors in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iran) discovered that damp grains could ferment into a delightful, mood-altering concoction. 

Instead of calling a mold specialist, they called their friends for a party. 

This early beverage was not exactly the crisp pilsner or rich stout we know today, but our resourceful ancestors seemed to think it was the bee’s knees.

Hieroglyphics and Hangovers

As civilization (and hangovers) spread, so did beer. 

The ancient Egyptians took up the brewing baton with gusto, leaving copious evidence of their penchant for a pint. Their hieroglyphics weren’t just random squiggles—these were instructions for a homebrewing kit! 

They even had a goddess of beer, Ninkasi, who surely saw more prayers than the god of doing your chores.

The Romans: Grape Enthusiasts

Then the Romans, the killjoys, tried to replace beer with wine, declaring it the civilized choice. 

Tacitus, a Roman historian, even said that beer was a brew of “barley or wheat, a brew which has only a very far removed similarity to wine.” 

Tacitus clearly never attended a college kegger.

The Middle Ages: Monks to the Rescue

During the Middle Ages, monks in monasteries perfected the art of brewing. 

It wasn’t all chanting and scripture; these holy men knew their way around a malt. In fact, they innovated brewing techniques and invented some beer styles we still enjoy today, like the dubbel and tripel. 

The vow of silence probably wasn’t too hard to keep with a decent brew in hand.

Reinheitsgebot: Boring But Crucial

Fast forward to 1516 AD, and we hit the German Reinheitsgebot, the beer purity law. 

It sounds dull, but stick with me. This law limited beer ingredients to water, barley, and hops. That’s like limiting a painter to three colors! Still, it led to a focus on high-quality ingredients and gave us the delightful lagers we know and love today.

Modern Beers: A Boozy Renaissance

Today, we’re in a golden age of brewing, with thousands of breweries around the world and a seemingly infinite array of styles. 

From the hoppy punch of American IPAs to the funky depths of Belgian sours, we’ve got it all. Beer has truly come a long way from its humble origins of damp, fermented grain.

Beer: It’s not just a beverage; it’s history in a glass. Cheers to that!

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

Speaking of beer, it’s time to elevate your brew experience with our Beer to Go Gift Cooler. Outfitted with a rugged, waxed cotton canvas exterior and a comfy, adjustable shoulder strap, it’s packed with Chicago’s finest micro-brews. With a handy, retractable bottle opener and a slotted top flap for easy access, your favorite beer is always just a reach away. Enjoy freshness and convenience, all in one package!

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 and LinkedIn.

Creating the Ultimate Fourth of July BBQ: Recipes, Decorations, and Games

With the Fourth of July rapidly approaching, there’s no better time to crank up the grill, slap on some shades, and prepare for a fiery, food-filled spectacle (that’s hopefully not followed by indigestion). 

Is it easier than it sounds to host a July Fourth barbecue? No. But we’re here to help, so read on you patriots, you so that you can elevate your gathering with mouthwatering recipes, cool decorations, and thrilling games.

Recipes to Remember

Any barbecue worth its salt (and pepper) starts and ends with the food. 

Stick to classic flavors, but don’t hesitate to get adventurous—this isn’t an audition for Masterchef after all. On the main course, we’re thinking a spice-rubbed brisket or ribs so tender they make a marshmallow feel like concrete.

Don’t let the sides feel left out, though. Let’s add a dreamy potato salad, corn on the cob, and a coleslaw with enough tang to start its own rock band. For the vegetarians, serve a grilled Portobello mushroom cap that’ll make even the meat-lovers green with envy.

And dessert? Easy peasy. Serve up a trifle that’s oozing with fresh berries or an apple pie that would make any mom proud. For a more chilled option, try red, white, and blue popsicles, because, you know, eating a flag has never been more delicious!

Dope Decorations

Great food needs an equally stunning stage. 

Start with the basics: American flags, buntings, and balloons in red, white, and blue. Consider creating a centerpiece with Mason jars, sand, and tiny flags or sparklers.

As the sun bids adieu, up the ante with your lighting. Fairy lights or candles in patriotically themed holders could just be the star-spangled sparkle you need. And don’t forget the table setting: red and white checkered tablecloths; star-shaped plates; and striped napkins. Not exactly Martha Stewart, but these aren’t the highest of stakes. 

Game Time

A Fourth of July barbecue without games is like a hot dog without mustard—bland and forgettable. Get the competitive juices flowing with traditional lawn games like cornhole, horseshoes, or badminton.

Feeling a bit more daring? How about a game of capture the American flag or a water balloon fight with red, white, and blue balloons. It’s time to show the kids that being an adult doesn’t mean you can’t play a mean game of three-legged race or sack race.

Remember, your ultimate Fourth of July barbecue isn’t just about achieving grill-master status or winning the decoration Olympics. It’s about those belly laughs, the friendly rivalries, and the food. Always the food. 

Bring it on, Fourth of July! Now, where’s that bottle opener?

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

What’s the best way to thank your gracious host for putting on such a grand event? With golf! Duh. Behold our 19th Hole gift basket, featuring a golf ball and tee set, golf snack mix, pretzels, dipping mustard, and other fun snacks. 

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 and LinkedIn.

Soil and Smiles: The Health Benefits of Gardening

“Time spent in the garden is never wasted,” said every grandmother and hobbyist gardener ever. 

I mean, I don’t have actual proof of this, but I ask you, dear reader, to suspend disbelief for the next 500 or so words. 

Last time, we presented the health benefits of pretzels, and today I am about to water your mind with the flourishing health benefits of gardening, from a gardener’s vibrant rosy cheeks to the unspeakable joy of non-photosynthetic beings nurturing plants into life.

Heart-healthy and as Humble as a Compost Heap

Did you know that gardening is an excellent cardiovascular exercise? 

It is. 

According to some folks in white lab coats, gardening could lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Plus, gardening is far more entertaining than the typical run-around-the-block, and honestly, less judgmental than a gym mirror. Have you ever tried wrestling with an uncooperative rose bush? If that doesn’t get your heart racing, I’m not sure what will.

Gardening Can Relieve Stress

Gardening is the original stress ball. 

It turns out that playing in the dirt isn’t just for kids. You get to vent your frustrations on those pesky dandelions (or whatever plant is on your hit list), and before you know it, voila, no more stress!

Studies have found that gardening significantly reduces cortisol levels (that’s the stress hormone for those of you who skipped Biology 101). So, every time you’re elbow deep in compost, just remember: you’re also neck-deep in tranquility.

You Bask in the Vitamin D Limelight

Unless you’ve learned the art of nocturnal gardening, spending time with your petunias generally means basking in the sunlight. 

As we know, sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, essential for bone health and a good mood. Don’t underestimate the power of a good dose of sunshine. It can make your day brighter, your smile wider, and give your body the power it needs to help absorb calcium. 

But remember, wear sunscreen; you want to be a garden enthusiast, not a walking tomato.

It Does the Brain Good

Working in the garden demands skill and strategy,which can keep your cognitive functions sharp.

Research suggests that the physical activity associated with gardening can help lower the risk of developing dementia. 

The next time your friends ask why you’re out in the garden talking to your plants, just tell them you’re in a high-level strategic meeting.

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

And speaking of all this gardening, let us tell you about  our Gardener’s Delight Gift Basket, featuring: a Seed & Sprout garden set, including a colorful half apron, hand spade, and hand trowel; Garden Notes books; J&M cookies; Davidson tea; 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 and LinkedIn.

Father’s Day Around the World: Exploring Global Traditions and Celebrations

Ah yes, Father’s Day, the unsung hero of the greeting card world that annually graces our calendars. 

This day, designated for our darling dads, is often synonymous with ties, socks, and (if they’re lucky) power tools. However, around the globe, the festivities are as diverse as dads themselves. 

A few weeks back we discussed Mother’s Day, and today buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a world tour of paternal partying…or something like that. 

Brazil: Food, Football, and Family

In Brazil, they say ‘Feliz Dia dos Pais,’ combining the three Fs of Brazilian culture: Food, Football, and Family. 

Feasts are prepared, games are played, and a day that starts with a barbeque could well end with a father-son football match. After all, what screams ‘I love you, Dad’ more than a slide tackle?

Germany: Their Day in the Sun (and the Bar!)

German fathers don’t just sit back and wait for the gifts to roll in. 

No, they take matters into their own hands with a tradition called ‘Männertag’ (Men’s Day). After a hearty breakfast, dads embark on a men-only wagon tour loaded with beer and regional food, effectively turning Father’s Day into an all-you-can-eat, drink-as-much-as-you-dare fest.

Responsibility? That’s tomorrow’s problem.

Mexico: The Race for Fatherhood

Father’s Day in Mexico is more than just breakfast in bed; it’s a 21-kilometer race in Mexico City known as the ‘Carrera Día del Padre 21K Bosque de Tlalpan’. If your dad’s an athlete, this could be a dream. 

If not, well, there’s always next year.

South Africa: Braais and Bravery

In South Africa, many families celebrate with a ‘braai,’ or barbecue, where fathers are hailed as the king of the grill. 

Nothing says love quite like a perfectly charred steak, after all. They also celebrate brave and courageous deeds, so dads, it’s your time to shine with those legendary “When I was your age…” tales.

Thailand: The Sweet Scent of Fatherhood

Thailand takes a floral turn on this day. 

The flower of choice? Canna, chosen for its masculinity (we’ll save that debate for another day). These are given alongside the more traditional gift of, well, life insurance. That’s right, in Thailand, insurance policies fly off the shelves on Father’s Day. 

Talk about a gift that keeps on giving… or not.

From boisterous beer wagon tours to freezing parades, and from floral tributes to vigorous races, Father’s Day around the world is anything but boring. 

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

Want Dad to feel like royalty? Then look no further than our Crown and More Gift Basket, holding court in a faux leather tote and lavishing with Crown Royal (750 ml), fun beverage glass, maple smoked cashews, salami, Garrett’s popcorn, triple chocolate toffee, 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 and LinkedIn.

5 Favorite Summer Activities to Do in Chicagoland

There’s a palpable shift in the air, and no, I’m not talking about all the dandelion snow piling up on the grass. I mean, what is the deal with that? 

I’m referring to the start of summer, only weeks away. That’s right, it’s summertime in the Windy City and surrounding areas, and there are plenty of ways to soak up the sun. 

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, today I present five favorite activities to do in Chicagoland during the summer months.

1. Lakefront Leisure

First off, if you’re not spending at least one summer day lounging by Lake Michigan, you’re doing Chicago wrong. 

This massive body of water has the uncanny ability to make you forget you’re in a bustling city. Stroll, bike, or rollerblade along the 18-mile Lakefront Trail, or simply lounge on one of the many beaches. 

Don’t forget to swing by Navy Pier for a classic Ferris Wheel ride, because who doesn’t love a good dose of nostalgia?

2. Festival Frenzy

Chicagoans, like moths to a flame, are drawn to outdoor summer festivals. It’s a science, and I’ve conducted studies and produced meta data. Actually, I haven’t, but still. 

The city offers a smorgasbord of summer street festivals, from foodie heaven Taste of Chicago to the tunes of Lollapalooza. Each neighborhood has its unique flair, so be sure to check out a few. 

3. Architectural Adventures

Architecture buffs, this one’s for you. 

The Chicago River Architecture Cruise is an absolute must-do and just for tourists. Not only do you get to chill on a boat (sailing, so fancy!), but you’re also treated to stories of the city’s rich architectural history. 

It’s a perfect combination of relaxation and education, like watching a National Geographic documentary from a hot tub.

4. Green City Market Treks

Visiting the Green City Market in Lincoln Park is like walking into a food-lover’s dream.

Every Wednesday and Saturday, farmers and artisan producers gather to sell fresh, local goodies. Don’t be surprised if you leave with bags brimming with rainbow chard, organic blueberry jam, and a newfound appreciation for artisanal cheeses.

By the way, there are farmers markets in neighborhoods throughout the city and suburbs. 

5. Starlit Cinema

Finally, if you’re a movie buff, you can’t miss the city’s Movies in the Park series.

Spread across various parks throughout the summer, it’s like Netflix but with fresh air and no need to dispute over what to watch. Just remember, BYOB – Bring Your Own Blanket!

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

Our Natural Goodness Gift Basket is a great companion for any of the above activities. Built in an elegant bamboo bowl, this basket features almonds, sea salt caramel chardonazyns, pistachios, cashews, veggie straws, and more. And all items are naturally gluten-free!   

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 and LinkedIn.

National Mental Health Month: Raising Awareness, Reducing Stigma, and Affecting Change

That title is a lot to live up to, but in many ways, it’s my charge. 

If you’re familiar with me and this blog, then you know that mental health awareness and advocacy is a passion of mine. If you’re new to this blog and you don’t know me, it’s nice to meet you! 

My posts on the subject have appeared here and on the HuffPost, and I’ve even given a Ted Talk-style presentation on depression

While I believe every month should be recognized as a mental health month, I appreciate that May brings awareness to mental health issues and attempts to reduce the stigma that surrounds them. 

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being and just as essential as physical health. According to Hopkins Medicine, nearly one in four people in the U.S. suffers from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. 

The goal of National Mental Health Month is to promote mental health, educate the public, and support individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Raising Awareness: Opening the Conversation

Let’s face it, it’s difficult to discuss mental health, but the conversation has never been as sophisticated as it is today. 

By speaking openly about mental health issues, we can increase understanding and empathy, which helps dispel myths and misconceptions. It’s crucial to challenge the stereotype that people with mental illness are weak or somehow responsible for their condition. Mental health disorders are not a choice, and anyone can be affected regardless of age, gender, or background.

The first step to creating an environment where discussions about mental health are welcomed is to educate ourselves and others. This includes understanding the different types of mental illnesses, their symptoms, and the available treatment options. By familiarizing ourselves with the facts, we can help normalize conversations and create a more supportive and inclusive community.

Note that mental health conditions should have the same consideration in terms of confidentiality as any other medical matter, so it’s up to you if you wish to initiate a conversation about your own experience. 

Reducing Stigma: Shifting Perspectives

Stigma is one of the primary barriers that people with mental health issues face when seeking help. 

Stigmatizing attitudes can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and despair. National Mental Health Month presents a great opportunity to change the narrative surrounding mental health and dismantle the negative stereotypes.

We can help shift perspectives by:

  • Using respectful language: Avoid using derogatory terms or making jokes about mental illness. Language is powerful and can perpetuate stereotypes.
  • Listening and empathizing: Offer a supportive ear and demonstrate understanding for those who open up about their mental health struggles.
  • Sharing stories: If you wish, share your experiences with mental illness. These stories can create a greater sense of solidarity and help others feel less alone in their journey.

Providing Resources and Support

Part of raising awareness is offering support and educating about resources. You can do this by:

  • Checking in regularly with your friend or loved one and let them know that you care about their well-being.
  • Offering assistance with everyday tasks or providing a listening ear when they need to talk.
  • Encouraging them to seek professional help if they haven’t already, and support them through the process.

Helpful resources include:

Additionally, if you want to talk to a non-professional but someone who gets it, please feel free to reach out to me.

In 2023, the mental well-being movement is front and center, and finally people are coming out of the shadows thanks to campaigns like Mental Health Awareness Month.

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 and LinkedIn.

Mother’s Day Around the World: Exploring Global Traditions and Celebrations

Mother’s Day is May 14. You got that, procrastinating planners? 

Did you know that we’re not the only nation that celebrates Mother’s Day, and at least 50 other countries do? 

As we gear up for Mother’s Day, let’s take a tour around the globe and explore some of the different ways other countries celebrate Mom. 

Ethiopia

It’s go big or go home in Ethiopia, where the Antrosht festival celebrates mothers in a three-day event. 

The entire family gathers together for a feast, but here’s the catch: the mothers are responsible for preparing the entire meal. Yes, you read that correctly. On Mother’s Day, moms in Ethiopia get to cook for everyone! 

Of course, the kids and the rest of the family show their gratitude by singing, dancing, and having a great time…but still. 

Finland

For Finnish Moms, Mother’s Day is quite the affair, as they are showered with all the classic tokens of affection, from gifts and flowers to the occasional breakfast in bed (burnt toast, anyone?).

But what really sets Finnish Mother’s Day apart is the presidential touch. That’s right, every year, the Finnish president honors a group of extraordinary moms. These super-moms have been nominated by their families or communities for their heroic parenting efforts.

Talk about a mom-umental occasion. Sorry, I had to. 

Japan

In Japan, mothers are celebrated with a beautiful display of carnations. 

These flowers symbolize the gentle strength, love, and resilience of mothers. Children often present their moms with bouquets or hand-drawn pictures of carnations. 

Who wouldn’t want to receive an endless supply of hand-drawn carnation doodles to redecorate their fridge every year?

Mexico

On “El Día de las Madres,” mariachi bands serenade mothers with heartfelt songs, sometimes as early as 5 am, because who doesn’t love waking up before sunrise to the sound of…well, anything? 

At least the moms get to enjoy a day filled with love and serenades, accompanied by family gatherings and delicious feasts. And a nap somewhere in the middle. 

Serbia

Known as Materice, this Mother’s Day-like holiday occurs on the second Sunday preceding Christmas in the southeastern European nation. 

On this day, children lovingly tie their mother’s feet together using ribbon or string. The mother must then remain bound until she provides her children with little gifts and sweets. This is not a joke. 

The silver lining? The following weekend, the mother and her children have the opportunity to do the same to the father, who must then reward them with Christmas presents and a lavish meal.

Okay then. 

United Kingdom

“Mothering Sunday”, as it’s known, is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent. 

That name is so deliciously United Kingdom-ish. 

Traditionally, children would return home from work or school to visit their mothers and present them with small gifts, like flowers or cakes. However, today’s youth have upped their game, showering their mothers with all manner of gifts, breakfasts in bed and luxurious spa days. 

You know what they say? “Keep calm and treat mom like a queen.”

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

No matter what country you hail from, our Mom’s Escape Gift Basket will make anyone’s Mother’s Day. Starting with Chardonnay—because what else is there to start with?—this winner is brimming with a bath pillow, eye mask, body polisher. Himalayan bath salt, soothing candle, bath bomb, face mask, and more to pamper Mom.  

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 and LinkedIn.

Everything You Need to Know About Administrative Professionals Day

Administrative professionals. What in the world would we do without you? 

For starters, probably not have running businesses, full stop. 

Administrative professionals are the backbone of many businesses and organizations, providing essential support and ensuring that daily operations, well, operate. These individuals may serve in various roles, including secretaries, administrative assistants, receptionists, executive assistants, and office managers, among others.

I’d say they deserve a day that recognizes and celebrates their invaluable contributions to the success of their respective organizations. 

Administrative Professionals Day is April 26 (mark your calendar!), and in today’s blog, we delve into the history and significance of this special day and provide some suggestions on how you can celebrate the administrative professionals in your life.

A Brief History 

Why the history lesson? Because Administrative Professionals Day isn’t some new Hallmark event or just another silly Today is National Fill-In-The-Blank Day. 

We’re going to go for a ride in the way back machine to World War II when there was a significant shortage of skilled administrative personnel in the United States. In response to this, the National Secretaries Association was founded in 1942, aiming to support the professional development of secretaries and attract more people to the profession. 

Still with me?

The next leg of our way back machine journey takes us to 1952, when the Association, in conjunction with public relations executive Harry Klemfuss and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Charles Sawyer, established National Secretaries Week, with Wednesday of that week designated as National Secretaries Day.

As you could imagine the name National Secretaries Day became a little too old-timey and evolved to be more inclusive and better reflect the diverse range of administrative roles in the modern workplace. In 2000, the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), the organization that succeeded the National Secretaries Association, officially changed the name to Administrative Professionals Day.

I hope you’ve been paying attention, because there will be a quiz. Kidding. 

How to Show Recognition

How do show these unsung heros some love?

We’ve got suggestions:

  1. Show appreciation with a personalized note or card: A handwritten note expressing gratitude for their hard work and dedication can make a world of difference. Take the time to write a heartfelt message acknowledging the specific ways they contribute to your team’s success.
  2. Give a thoughtful gift: Consider gifts that will help make their work life more enjoyable or comfortable, such as a quality planner, a comfortable ergonomic chair, or a gift certificate to a local café or restaurant where they can enjoy a meal or coffee break. But for the best gift, see SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT below.
  3. Organize a team lunch or event: Plan a special event, like a team lunch or after-work gathering, to celebrate your administrative professionals together. This can be an excellent opportunity to foster team spirit and strengthen relationships among colleagues.
  4. Offer professional development opportunities: Encourage and support their growth by offering professional development opportunities such as workshops, seminars, or online courses that will help them advance in their careers.
  5. Publicly acknowledge their contributions: During a team meeting or in a company-wide communication, highlight the hard work and dedication of your administrative professionals and thank them for their contributions.

Another way to show recognition is…

🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨

Is there a gift more tailored-made for Administrative Professionals Day than our Inner Zen Relaxation Gift Basket

That’s a rhetorical question. 

You can’t thank them enough with this R&R basket, built in a faux leather storage box, including a mini Buddha Board drawing easel, Aloe infused socks, travel candle, black raspberry vanilla soap, 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!

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