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!

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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.