As I prepared for the holiday season, I spent time much of November securing gift basket orders and opening wholesale accounts with local vendors.  I met with the sales and marketing team at Diamond Bakery in Honolulu, Hawaii to introduce myself as a new, up and coming business owner that specializes in custom gift baskets on Oahu.  What resulted out of that short meeting was an opportunity that came unexpected to me - packaging their cookie and cracker selection into gift baskets to be sold at various Longs Drugs stores!

I just visited the Pali Longs this morning, and there were just six baskets left on the shelf.  What is amazing is that the baskets were put out just two days ago!  Of course I am very happy with the outcome and rapid sales.

Diamond Bakery has been making people smile since 1921… celebrating their 88th anniversary.  To be a part of their growing success is an incredible feeling, and I am appreciative for their trust and supporting other small businesses in Hawaii.

How about hosting a party this Halloween?  With these easy recipes, you’ll impress your guests and enjoy the night!

Skeleton veggie platter

Crescent mummy dogs

Creepy deviled eyeballs

Red velvet brain cupcakes

Recently, The Bess Impression was contacted by a woman in California who was getting married in Hawaii.  She wanted custom gift baskets made for her family and friends attending the wedding.  After having an idea of what she wanted in these gift baskets, I helped her to create gift bags filled with all the essentials of a Hawaiian getaway.  On the delivery date, I woke up at 4:30AM to drive to the North Shore of Oahu.  Dropping off the gift bags and setting up the beach home where the guests were staying at made me feel fortunate to have clients thousands of miles away who trust me and feel confident that The Bess Impression will do a spectacular job.  It was a wonderful experience, and I feel blessed to have been a part of the couple’s special occasion.

Giving personalized gifts can take a little more time, effort, and sometimes more money, but I think it’s an added touch your gift recipient will appreciate.  Here are just a few items any person would love to recieve…

1. 1. Personalized correspondence cards - click for image
2. 2. On-the-go personalized aluminum water bottle - click for image
3. 3. Monogrammed letter opener - click for image
4. 4. Personalized golf balls - click for image
5. 5. Monogrammed towel sets - click for image
6. 6. Personalized lunch boxes - click for image
7. 7. Engraved key ring - click for image

Weddings are always so beautiful…the happy couple… the sweet smelling flowers…gorgeous wedding cake…abundance of alcohol…simply a wonderful and joyous occasion.  However, it can be costly for both the bride and groom and the guests.  No matter how many weddings we all attend, the same questions run through our minds.  Here are answers to the most commonly asked questions…

“How much should I spend on a gift?” Generally you should spend $50-75 and twice that amount if you bring a guest.  Spending $100 or more is acceptable if you have a closer relationship with the bride or groom.

“Is giving cash okay?” Sure!  It may seem impersonal, but you are actually being helpful.  It can be inconvenient for the newlyweds or the wedding party to have to supervise the gift table and transport large gifts on an already busy day.  If you plan to purchase a gift, it is recommended that it be delivered to the couple’s home prior to the wedding day.

“Do I still give a gift when I will not be attending the wedding?” Yes, because a gift to the couple shows that you care, support, and celebrate their new life together.

Do you have more questions regarding wedding gift etiquette?  Contact The Bess Impression.  We can also provide you with gift suggestions, shopping, wrapping and free delivery in the Honolulu area.