Bypass the humdrum bridal shower gifts of blenders and nightgowns and give a getaway for two. Now wait, don’t roll your eyes and ask if I think your last name is Trump. I’m talking about a virtual getaway. There are times a married couple would love to go off for a weekend, but can’t because of various reasons. That’s where your gift comes in.

A beach themed gift basket would be a great gift for any new or established couple so file this away for anniversaries as well. And for people with kids – it can be nearly impossible to getaway when you have munchkins. This is an easy craft for everyone, even the most non-crafty gifter.

• Buy a beachy themed container to hold all of your items. This could be a great tin pail, brightly colored bucket or a cute lined picnic basket, etc.
• Line the container with a colorful piece of fabric or a beach towel.
• Throw in some crinkle shredded paper or tissue paper.
• Pile in tropical candles, a bottle of gourmet lemonade (or wine), cheese, crackers, massage oil, wine glasses, an “ocean sounds” CD or a beach scene DVD, a small souvenir bottle of sand, a couple of seashells and anything else that screams fun in the sun.
• Be sure to secure items in the basket so they don’t jostle around while you transport them. A little tape goes a long way. And if tape or glue will ruin an item, try securing items with pieces of twine to add to the rustic look or use small gauge wire for an invisible look. Whatever you do, don’t make the items hard to get out. Nothing ruins an evening like fighting with packaging!

The majority of these items you can find at your local discount stores or if you really want to get fancy go to your local home decor stores or online.

photo credit: The Best Caribbean Beaches/Waves: Virtual Vacations