(StatePoint) Looking for a thoughtful gift this holiday season? Give a gift basket!

Don't be intimidated by the task - it`s easy to create the perfect gift basket for even the fussiest person.

"A food basket is a welcome gift for all occasions," says Bonnie Tempesta, founder of the cookie company Boncora Biscotti. "You can make it as elegant, whimsical or celebratory as you want -- and at whatever cost your budget allows."

Gift baskets also offer a chance to inject some personality into a gift.

"What you choose to put in a gift basket is a reflection of who you are as a gift giver," says Jean Thompson, Owner and CEO of Seattle Chocolates, maker of premium chocolate bars and truffles. "It`s a great way to share your good taste."

Follow these simple tips to make unique gift baskets for everyone on your list:

- Decide what you want to include before you buy the basket so you can pick the right size. No matter what size basket you use, it should be overflowing.

- If a traditional wooden basket isn`t your style, look for other vessels: a colorful paper bag, a pretty pastry box, a flower pot. The possibilities are endless - and inexpensive.

- Fill the basket with higher- and lower-priced items to keep overall costs down. Include items of varying heights to add visual interest.

- Arrange the contents around a theme, such as all things red or everything handmade or all chocolate!

- Choose foods you love or products you`re excited about trying. Chances are, if you were wowed by a treat, your gift recipient will be too.

- "Go for edibles that don't need to be eaten right away," says Edmond Sanctis, co-founder of Sahale Snacks. "Treats that can be nibbled and shared all season long are ideal gift basket additions."

- Splurge on indulgences your recipient normally wouldn`t buy for him or herself.

- Add a food item that's new or hard to find.

- Include unusual flavor combinations that can be used for snacking as well as cooking

- Use colorful, recyclable paper, like tissue paper or shredded paper, to fluff up the contents of your basket.

- The finishing touch on a gift basket is not the shrink wrap; it`s the note. Tell your gift recipient why you chose what you did!