Hampers are a gift good enough for royalty. In 2014 HRH Queen Elizabeth II presented Pope Francis with a hamper of British produce to mark their first meeting at the Vatican.

Nothing beats a fully laden luxury hamper to treat your loved ones for Christmas, and for those amongst us fortunate enough to ever receive one, we all know how wonderful it feels to go through the goodies reserved for us, almost like going through a cabinet of curiosities.

Hampers have a wonderful history, and as with most traditions, the Christmas hamper was once meant to represent something very different. The concept of hampers was first introduced to England by France and gained popularity during the Victorian period.

The wicker basket filled with delicious and savoury treats dates back to 1066 when William the Conqueror ruled Britain.

These early hampers were filled with food, drinks, and even clothing. Then, the baskets were first given as a charitable offering to poor or impoverished families. In some cases, the supplies could last a single family for several weeks.

As years passed by, the word ‘hamper’ evolved and with it, its meaning. In the 1200s, hampers, also known as “hanapers”, were used by some to store important documents. Several more historical events transformed the name and use of the hamper.

In 1706, people began to travel by stagecoach. This meant passengers would need food and drink for their journey. Hampers became a popular choice among many travellers dining en route.

The expansion of the railroad system in the late 1800s changed the way people and goods travelled. The railways made it easier for families and friends to send Christmas hampers long-distances as presents.

With the invention of the car came even more changes. Some baskets soon included tea kettles and burners. This allowed travelers to stop along the way for a calming, hot beverage and tea became a common inclusion in the hamper.

But transportation wasn’t the only feature that became more sophisticated. The contents of the Christmas hamper also evolved with some of the more lavish baskets showcasing delicacies like lobster.

It was around this time that the history of the Christmas hamper also evolved from a simple wicker basket carrying food and drink to a cherished gift given to those you love most.

Then and now, Christmas hampers are seen as a gesture of love and goodwill between friends and family. Many holiday traditions surround good food, good drink, and good people, making the Christmas hamper the perfect gift.

So why are our Christmas Hampers special?

Quality Contents
Our hampers offer a variety of high quality, luxury contents. From high-grade Ceylon teas to home-made jams and chutneys, premium wines and Maltese honey.

Surprise Delivery
When you order from us, you can arrange delivery at a specific workplace or home address.

High-Grade Craftsmanship
Quality food and drink is a must, but what distinguishes us from the rest is the artisanal craftsmanship of our leatherware. Our luxury hamper will also include an artisanal hand-stitched leather garment, for him or for her.

You may of course create your own personalised hamper and compose your own basket of goodness, or choose from combinations which we propose to suit anyone’s pocket!

Order yours today from www.birgublue.com

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