With only $500 and a ton of ambition, Kristi Brocato began The Basketry in 1995.An idea that was born in a college dorm room quickly developed into a blossoming gift basket business — and it all started with one $25 fruit basket, which Brocato brought with her to one of her college courses before delivering to a very lucky recipient.
With that first basket sale, Brocato said she knew she found her calling.
As more and more people began to see the beautiful gift baskets, business grew. With each sale, Brocato took advantage of the opportunity to grow.
Brocato said a major key to her store’s success has been a focus on keeping the needs of the customer first and foremost.
“It’s important to always make the customer happy,” she said. “From same day hand delivery to custom designing the perfect gift basket, it is important to always keep the needs of the customer at the forefront.”
The Luling store has received a great deal of support from the community.
“I think our community appreciates having a nice place to shop and not have to go outside the community,” she said. “They give us a lot of positive feedback and suggestions and that’s helped us a great deal over the years. Our community values small business and it’s nice to see every business in our parish succeed.”
While gift baskets remain at the heart of the store’s business, some of The Basketry’s most popular items include Kendra Scott, Pandora Jewelry and items made in Louisiana, as well as its boutique.
“Customers love to treat themselves as well as give the perfect gift,” Brocato said.
Meanwhile, some of the new attention-getters at the store include The Giving Keys, Bonfolk and a new line of personalized gifts.
She also noted Yosi Samra shoes as “ballet flats that fold up for easy storage in your purse, but are unbelievably comfortable and stylish.”
“Our personalized gifts such as the herringbone blankets and platters continue to do well,” she added.
The Basketry will host a Holiday Kick Off Party on Thursday, Nov. 3 from 5-9 p.m.
The store will serve dinner and drinks while customers shop.
Brocato said the store will offer 30 percent off one item along with many free gifts.
Some of the gift offers she mentioned as examples include a free Kendra Scott item with the purchase of $150 Kendra Scott merchandise; free Diva Wash with the purchase of a $50 Tyler Candle; free stud earrings with a $150 Sorrelli purchase; free Fleur de lis ornament with $75 holiday purchase and free Breathe Bracelet with a $100 My Saint My Hero purchase.
“The Basketry is the perfect place to find the perfect gift,” Brocato said. “The creative team works hard to deliver the best service, the hottest product lines and the most beautiful gift baskets for customers. You can always find something unique when visiting or shopping online and we always make sure it’s gift wrapped for free.”
The Basketry is located at 12337 U.S. Hwy 90. To order a custom gift basket, call (985) 785-8769.
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