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.

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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!

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

Sometimes I wonder if cashews were kidneys in a former life. After all, they sure look like them. But that’s not the point of this blog post. 

I’m here to discuss how these tree nuts with legume and seed characteristics pack a powerful punch when it comes to health benefits, making them a great addition to your diet. 

Let’s dive into the crunchy power of cashews and discover why they deserve a spot in your pantry.

Nutrient-Rich Delight

Cashews are a nutrient-dense food, rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron. 

All that stuff is good for you. 

Magnesium is critical for muscle and nerve function, while zinc supports your immune system. Cashews are also a good source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.

Heart Health Hero

Hearts heart cashews.  

Cashews contain high levels of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, known as “good” fats, which can help decrease bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and lower the risk of heart disease. 

These healthy fats, along with magnesium, support a regular heart rhythm and contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular problems.

Cashews everywhere, my heart thanks you. 

Weight Management Ally

Let’s not mistake “good fats” with fattening. 

You see, cashews can actually help with weight management. They are chock-full of protein and fiber, which can make you feel full, thereby reducing overall calorie intake.

Adding cashews in your diet can help curb hunger pangs and prevent overeating, making them a smart snack choice for those looking to manage their weight.

Bone Strength Booster

Strong bones are good, and cashews are a fantastic source of minerals that are vital for bone health. 

All that magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium contribute to maintaining strong and healthy bones. I’m starting to think that cashews are the multi-vitamin of the tree nut family without that bitter, metallic taste. 

Regular consumption of cashews can help prevent bone-related issues such as osteoporosis and promote overall bone density.

Antioxidant Powerhouse

Cashews are loaded with antioxidants, including vitamin E and selenium, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals (by the way, we love antioxidants. Read up here and here. 

These antioxidants play a crucial role in reducing inflammation and boosting your immune system. By incorporating cashews into your diet, you can help your body fight off infections and stay healthy.

Versatile and Delicious

Maybe I should’ve led with this, but aside from their impressive health benefits, cashews taste good, too. 

They can be added to salads for a crunchy texture, blended into smoothies for a creamy consistency, or used in various recipes, from savory dishes to sweet treats. 

You can also just eat them on their own. I won’t tell. 

And speaking of a shameless plug alert…

🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🚨

It’s summer, and people are flocking to our town. 

What better way to welcome your guests than with our Sweet of You to Come Amenity Gift Box. We’ve got two styles: Chicago Style Sweet of You to Come includes Lillie’s Q Buttermilk Sweet Onion chips, Windy City Snack mix, Lemonheads, Open sparkling water, and Long Grove Confectionery dipped pretzels. 

Then there’s Our Sweet Snacking package, replete with Veggie chips, cashews & almonds, Asher’s dipped graham crackers or pretzels, Dolcetto cookie bites, Carousel candy caramels, and bottled water. 

We’ve got you covered!

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.

Not to rush summer or anything before it officially starts, but July 4th is right around the corner. 

That means it’s time to fire up the grill, break out the sparklers (and illegal fireworks purchased across state lines), and enjoy some good old-fashioned American fun. If you are hosting an Independence Day party, remember the first rule that I just invented: Don’t screw it up. 

Today, we discuss five common July 4th party faux pas to avoid so that your celebration is as smooth as a perfectly cooked bratwurst.   

1. Neglecting the Grill

The grill is the beating heart of any good July 4th party. 

But nothing ruins a BBQ faster than a neglected grill. Make sure to clean it thoroughly before the big day. Scrape off any leftover residue, check the propane levels, or stock up on charcoal. And don’t forget to preheat it! Cooking on a cold grill can lead to uneven cooking and disappointed guests. 

Trust me, no one wants a burger that’s burnt on the outside and raw on the inside…unless you’re a caveman. 

2. Running Out of Essentials

Picture this: your guests are happily munching away when suddenly, you realize you’ve run out of napkins, or worse, beverages. 

Oh, the humanity! 

Avoid the mid-party scramble by stocking up on essentials beforehand. Make a checklist—plates, cups, napkins, utensils, condiments, ice, and plenty of drinks. It’s always better to have too much than to run out in the middle of the festivities. 

And don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray; your guests will thank you.

3. Forgetting Dietary Preferences

Dietary restrictions and preferences are more common than ever. 

Make sure to check with your guests ahead of time about any special dietary needs. Offering a variety of options—vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free—can make everyone feel included and you the hero of the day.

Have some veggie burgers, gluten-free buns, and a variety of sides that cater to different diets. You can never make everyone happy, but you’ll still earn an Independence Day E for effort. 

4. Skimping on Entertainment

Sure, food and fireworks are the main attractions, but don’t forget about the in-between moments. Hey, you offered to be the host. 

Keep your guests entertained with games, music, and activities. Cornhole, frisbee, or even a simple deck of cards can keep the flow going. Create a 4th of July playlist to set the mood, and maybe even set up a photo booth with patriotic props. 

5. Not Respecting Your Neighbors 

You might be killing it with your party, but if you’re killing it while not being considerate to your neighbors then that’s a party foul. 

Keep noise levels at a reasonable volume, especially as the night progresses. Ending the party at a decent hour shows consideration and maintains good relationships with those living around you. No one wants to deal with complaints or tired, grumpy neighbors the next day. 

You don’t want to be known as those party people. 

Happy 4th of July!

🍷 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🍷

If you’re going to a guest and not the host of a 4th of July party, we’ve got the perfect thank you gift: our Elegant Wine Gift Basket. True to its name, this gift is built in a hyacinth basket and includes: Cabernet Sauvignon; J&M Wine biscuits (will be replaced with cookies for white wines); Water crackers; Wine cheese; Ice wine chocolate (sausage for packages shipped in warm weather); Bamboo cutting board spreader; Charles Viancin silicone bottle stopper; and Cocktail napkins.

A memorable party deserves a memorable gift. 

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.

Father’s Day is June 16, y’all. 

I don’t know why I said y’all. I think I was trying to create a sense of urgency. I digress. 

Father’s Day is that special time of year when dads everywhere are celebrated with BBQs, neckties, and homemade cards. But have you ever wondered how this holiday actually came to be? 

Pull up a chair and let’s chat about the origins of Father’s Day and how it found its spot on our calendars.

We Have a Mom to Thank

I know we just celebrated Mother’s Day, but it’s worth noting that Father’s Day was started by a mom. 

Sonora Smart Dodd was inspired by her own father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran who single-handedly raised six children after his wife’s death. Sonora felt that fathers deserved a day of recognition just like mothers.

If you’re a dad, and you didn’t serve in the Civil War, don’t worry, you can still celebrate Father’s Day. 

The First Father’s Day

The lovely Sonora didn’t just declare, “It’s Father’s Day, and it will be forever enshrined!” 

No, she had to do quite a bit of legwork. In 1910, she approached the suits at the Spokane Ministerial Alliance and suggested June 5th, her father’s birthday, as the day to celebrate fathers. 

No guff, no resistance. They said, “Cool,” and determined that June 19 would mark the first official Father’s Day. 

Gaining Traction

Despite this initial celebration, Father’s Day didn’t catch on as quickly as Mother’s Day. 

Many people saw it as a commercial gimmick pushed by retailers to sell more goods.Oh, if they only lived today when every day has become a Hallmark National Day of something or other. 

Anyway, the idea persisted thanks to the efforts of Ms. Dodd and the backing of trade groups and advertisers.

It wasn’t until 1924 that Father’s Day received a major boost when President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea of a national holiday. He encouraged states to celebrate the day, although it still wasn’t an official federal holiday. Over the next few decades, various attempts were made to formalize Father’s Day, but it faced resistance from Congress (surprise, surprise), which feared the holiday would become too commercialized.

Again, I have to chuckle knowing there was a time in our nation’s history when Congress was wary about capitalism. 

Making It Official

Fast forward four decades to the 1960s when President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers in 1966, designating the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. 

But…it wasn’t until 1972 that President Richard Nixon signed it into law, officially establishing Father’s Day as a national holiday.

Hey, better late than never. 

Modern Celebrations

Father’s Day isn’t just an American thing. 

It’s celebrated around the world from Brasil, Germany, and Mexico to South Africa and Thailand. 

Whether it’s a heartfelt card, a new set of golf clubs (very American), or simply spending quality time together, the day is all about acknowledging the contributions and sacrifices of dads everywhere.

Now that you know the history of Father’s Day, it’s time to pick out the perfect gift, which means we need to cue the…

🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🚨

Dad will love our Build a Bar Gift Package, built in a galvanized steel tray and serving up: Elijah Craig Bourbon 50ml; Grey Goose Vodka 50ml; Havana Club Rum 50ml; Martell Cognac 50ml;

Dorda Double chocolate liqueur 50ml; Bombay Sapphire gin 50ml; Patron XO Cafe coffee liqueur 50ml; Casamigos Tequila Blanco 50ml; two different Jim Beam whiskies 50ml; and much more. 

Happy Father’s 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.

Summer beckons. 

Pretty soon, we’ll be out of the woods of these pesky 50 degree days. Hey May, don’t let the door hit you on your way out. 

We’ve got a few weeks until the start of grilling season, and it’s time to dive into some essential tips to keep your BBQ grill in working shape so that you can be crowned the King or Queen of Burgers, Brats, Salmon, Eggplant, and whatever else you throw on there. 

1. Clean After Every Use

A cat cleans itself. Your grill is not a cat, so you’re on the hook for maintaining its hygiene. 

After you’ve finished cooking and your grill has cooled down a bit, grab a grill brush and give those grates a good scrub. This helps remove any leftover food particles and prevents rust. If you’ve got a gas grill, don’t forget to clean the burners, too. 

A clean grill not only lasts longer but also cooks better, and who doesn’t want that?

2. Check for Gas Leaks

You don’t want to mess with gas leaks. 

If you’re using a gas grill, you can check for leaks with the soapy water test. Mix a bit of dish soap with water and brush it on the connections. If you see bubbles forming, you’ve got a leak. Tighten the connections and test again. 

This little step can prevent big problems, like your grill exploding, which I hear is a major buzz-kill. 

3. Oil the Grates

We’re about to save you from committing one of grilling’s major faux pas.

Before you fire up the grill, oiling the grates can make a big difference. It helps prevent food from sticking and keeps the grates in good condition. Just dip a paper towel in some oil, use tongs to hold it, and wipe it over the grates. 

Your food will thank you for it, and your grill will, too.

4. Cover Your Grill

Oh how people forget this step.

It’s easy, because you can’t cover your grill right after you use it, unless you enjoy melting things that shouldn’t be melted. 

After your grill cools down, slap that cover on it. A good grill cover protects it from the elements, like rain, snow, dust, and critters. It’s a simple way to extend the life of your grill despite nature’s efforts to conspire against it. 

5. Deep Clean Annually

This is starting to feel pretty high-maintenance, isn’t it? Well, the life of your grill depends on these steps. 

Once a year, go beyond the usual post-cookout scrub and give your grill a deep clean. Disassemble it as much as possible and clean each part thoroughly. For gas grills, this means cleaning the burners, inspecting the gas tubes, and making sure there’s no buildup that could block the flow of gas. 

For charcoal grills, remove all the ash and scrub the interior. A deep clean keeps your grill in peak condition and can catch any potential issues before they become major problems.

6. Replace Worn-Out Parts

Even with the best care, some parts of your grill will wear out over time. 

Don’t take it personally; it just happens. 

Grates, burners, and igniters are some common culprits. Keep an eye on these parts and replace them when necessary. It’s a small investment that can keep your grill working like new-ish.

Taking care of your grill might seem like a hassle (okay, it definitely is), but a little maintenance goes a long way, and you don’t want to be dethroned from your status as grilling royalty. 

🍺 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🍺 

Do you know what goes great with grilling? Beer, of course! 

If your kid’s not around to fetch you a cold one while you’re in your cooking zone, what can you do? We’ve got the answer: our Beer to Go Gift Cooler. This gem has a waxed cotton canvas exterior, a removable padded divider and an adjustable shoulder strap. Not only that, we stock it with canned Chicago craft beer. 

Grilling just got a whole lot better. 

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.

Mother’s Day is a time to shower the moms in our lives with love, appreciation, and maybe a bouquet or two. 

You know what it’s not a time for? Asking her to do stuff. Perish the thought!

After all, Mother’s Day is about putting her needs first, right? So, here are five no-gos to keep in mind as you celebrate Mom this year.

1. “Can You Do the Laundry?”

It’s her day off, full stop. Actually, this deserves more attention. 

While it might be tempting to pass off a chore or two (especially if Mom has that magic touch with stubborn stains), resist the urge. Laundry, dishes, and any household chore should be off-limits. 

Have the kids do them instead. Yeah right. 

2. “What’s for Dinner?”

Don’t be a dingus. 

Repeat after me: I will not burden Mom with coming up with a dinner solution. In fact, you should have Mother’s Day dinner planned out already. Now, a fair and thoughtful question is asking if there’s somewhere special she wants to go, or if there’s a meal she’d like you to cook. 

But other than that, the onus is on you. 

3. “Can You Watch the Kids?”

This request is fine…as long as it’s on Father’s Day. 

But it’s Mother’s Day and kid duty is out of the question. 

Encourage your spouse or partner to take the day for some well-deserved “me time” or adult-only activities (get your mind out of the gutter!) Whether it’s reading a book uninterrupted, enjoying a spa day, or simply napping, make sure the usual responsibilities are covered.

4. “Did You Hear What (Fill-in-the-Blank) Politician Said?”

Mother’s Day is not the day to remind Mom about crazy current events in the news. Trust me, they’ll still be there on Monday.

Instead, let’s keep the news cycle about whether Mom would prefer pancakes or waffles for breakfast, or if she’d break her “no dessert before noon” rule for a slice of chocolate cake. And honestly, isn’t deciding whether to watch a rom-com or a drama more the speed we’re aiming for today?

Let’s save the world’s dramas for another day—today’s headlines should only read: “World’s Best Mom Takes a Well-Deserved Break, Damn It!”

5. “Can You Help Me with Something?”

Here’s how the grading scale works on this one.

• A for the thought not entering your mind.
• B if it enters your mind, but you keep your mouth closed.
• C if you say, “Can you help me…oh, never mind.”
• D if you say, “Can you help with something? Oh crap, strike that from the record.”
• F if you say, “Can you help me with something? Well? Come on already.” 

Keep the focus on Mom on Mother’s Day, and while you’re at it you can also make her feel special several other days during the year. 

💐 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 💐

Did I mention that Mother’s Day is only two weeks from this Sunday? No need to rack your brain to find the perfect gift, because it’s right here. 

Behold our Luscious Lavender Pamper Spa Gift Basket, built in a beautiful slat basket and filled with body butter, soap, bath soak, body lotion, bath bomb, lavender candle, aloe-infused socks, and more!

Happy Mother’s 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.

The expression, “Aged like a fine wine,” needs to come with a caveat: not all wines are destined for the long slumber in the cellar. 

Some are more like “live fast, die young” kind of stars. However, for those precious bottles that are meant to age gracefully, knowing the best ways to help them reach their potential can be the difference between a good wine and a really good wine. 

Let’s dip into some of the best practices for aging wine, so that when you do decide to pop that cork, it was worth the wait. 

1. Understanding Wine Aging Potential

Not all wines are cut out for aging—no offense to those wines…if they’re listening.

Time for some sommelier-speak. Generally, wines with a higher acidity, tannin level (in red wines), and residual sugar are the ones that age well.

These components act as preservatives, allowing the wine to develop complexity over time. 

So, before you consider aging a wine, research its aging potential or ask for advice from a trusted wine expert.

2. Optimal Storage Conditions

Creating the perfect environment for your wine to age is non-negotiable. 

The ideal conditions include a stable temperature around 55°F, humidity levels between 60% and 70% (I know, this sounds like a weather report) to prevent corks from drying out, minimal light exposure, and a vibration-free space. 

These conditions help slow down the aging process, allowing the wine to develop its flavors and aroma gradually.

3. Horizontal is the Way to Go

When storing wine, position is key. 

Bottles should be stored horizontally to keep the liquid up against the cork, which helps prevent it from drying out. A dry cork can lead to the end of the world. Actually, it can cause oxidation, which is the arch-nemesis of wine aging, turning your precious bottle into vinegar.

4. Patience is a Virtue

Aging wine is not for the impatient. 

It requires time and, well, more time. The aging process allows the wine to go through chemical reactions that enhance its bouquet and flavors, making it smoother and more enjoyable to drink. 

This could take years, or even decades, so it’s all about the long game. 

5. Regular Check-ins

While it’s important to let your wine rest, occasional check-ins are essential. 

This doesn’t mean opening the bottle, but rather monitoring the storage conditions for the sake of consistency. 

A quick visual inspection to check for leaks or any signs of cork damage can save your wine from premature aging.

Remember, no drinking it yet! 

Aging wine is an art and a science, requiring knowledge, the right conditions, and a good deal of patience. Remember, you can still drink wine you’re not aging while you’re waiting. 

🍷 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🍷 

If you couldn’t tell, we love wine, and we’ll prove it with our Mi Amore Wine Gift Basket. This gem is great for many occasions and includes TiAmo Prosecco, Tasso fig preserve, water crackers, wine cheese spread, Grisbi Italian lemon cookies, and two wine glasses. 

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.

Not to speed up the clock or anything, but graduation season is right around the corner.

Yep, that sweet culmination of years of hard work, late-night cram sessions, and an ungodly amount of coffee. But enough about us parents.

Whether it’s high school, college, or a master’s program, crossing that finish line deserves a celebration. But let’s be real for a second: planning a graduation party doesn’t need to be the next Herculean task you undertake. The last thing you want is the added stress of party planning pandemonium. 

So, how do you keep it simple without skimping on the fun? Read on, party planners. 

Start with the Who, Not the How Many

First off, this isn’t a gala with a fish boil (has there ever been a gala with a fish boil?) 

A cozy gathering of close friends and family isn’t just easier on your wallet, but it’s also more meaningful. Imagine being able to actually chat with each guest rather than performing a frantic meet-and-greet. 

Plus, a smaller guest list means you don’t need shushers assigned to every room to quiet the crowd when it’s time for speeches or any other type of announcements. 

Location, Location, Location…or Just Your Backyard

While renting out the last castle on the left sounds epic, why not consider your backyard or living room? 

It’s personal, it’s free, and hey, the commute is unbeatable. A few strings of fairy lights, some comfy seating, and you’ve got yourself a venue with a vibe.

But…even in May and early June, we’re not out of the cold weather woods, so be prepared to bring things inside if the winds and freezing rain sweep in. 

Potluck it Up

Now, let’s talk food. Catering can quickly turn your budget from “yay” to “nay.” 

So, how about a potluck? It adds variety to your spread and lets everyone showcase their signature dish. Maybe that fish boil makes sense after all. 

DIY Décor and Digital Invites

Forget forking out a fortune for fancy decorations. 

Those Pinterest DIYs are not just for show. Balloons, photos from school, and hand-made banners add a personal touch that no store-bought décor can match. And while we’re keeping it digital, send out evites. They’re eco-friendly, easy, and instantly delivered. 

No carrier pigeons required.

Focus on the Fun

Lastly, remember this party is all about celebrating an incredible achievement. 

Whether it’s backyard games, a nostalgic slideshow, or an impromptu karaoke session, the goal is laughter, memories, and perhaps a happy tear or two.

And if this graduation signals your empty nester phase, try to contain your excitement. 

🎓 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🎓 

Graduates are on the run, and we’ve got the perfect gift as they stay in stride: Our Fun on the Run Snack Pack! We start with an insulated six-can cooler that’s stocked with ready-to-eat finger foods, including Woeber’s honey dipping mustard, cheese, cashews or almonds, cookies, dipping pretzels, and assorted chips. 

Enjoy and congrats! 

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.