As the gift giving season approaches yet again, many consumers thoughts turn to gift baskets. They're an easy, affordable way to give personalized gifts to your loved ones, friends, or coworkers. However, creativity is also key. Does anyone really want another seventeen-tiered popcorn tower? So what's the answer?

Smoked salmon gift baskets are an especially elegant way to wow your friends and family. Classy and upscale, salmon has become a staple of many a Christmas morning breakfast. By the time you've bought everything you'll need to complement your salmon though, money can start to be an issue, not to mention the extra trip to the grocery store you would have to make.

But who wouldn't want a brunch of smoked salmon? Now imagine that you have bagels to go with it, of all different kinds, and that they're slathered in cream cheese and covered in capers. Now that would be an amazing breakfast!

And it will be easy and affordable too, with a smoked salmon gift basket. An excellent way for your gift to stand out from other gift baskets, you can fill your basket with items customized to impress your special someone. The salmon is the centerpiece, but in addition, there are many different options for you to choose from, designed to fit anyone's palate.

Even as the center of the basket, you have a choice in your salmon. Are you interested in Alaskan smoked salmon, thought by many to be superior in taste and appearance? Perhaps you've got friends who have hopped on the organic bandwagon, in which case natural smoked salmon, the non-farmed option, would be best for you. If you're in the mood, you can always include a bit of both, so everyone can decide which to try.

The choice of bagel is just as important. Wheat and white and whole grain, oh my! Pick the bagel that you like the best, and that you feel will best match the taste of your salmon, and the tastes of your friends. But don't even think that's your last choice.

Cream cheese is another key element that you will get to choose, essential to any smoked salmon gift basket. Is your Mom on a diet this year? Pick the low fat option. Do you have a gourmand on your list? Pick a flavored, high end cream cheese. And you always have the option of tasty whipped cream cheese for a lighter taste. And if you like a saltier taste, add some capers to your order.

This Christmas, go with an upscale option for your smoked salmon gift basket. The people on your gift list will never expect to open your present and find such a unique, upscale surprise. And as they enjoy their delicious breakfast, courtesy of their smoked salmon gift basket, they'll be thanking you!

By Sherry Shantel