They may seem like an old stand by, but with some creativity a fresh fruit gift basket can be a welcomed gift at just about any occasion for just about any recipient.

Coming in all shapes, sizes and prices, fruit baskets are wonderful options for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and even as corporate gifts. Plus, these fruit baskets can be dressed up to include a number of other items for more personalized gifts.

Pick a fruit, any fruit and there can be a gift basket made from it. Whether it's tropical fruits such as bananas, pineapples, mangos and papaya or northern fruits like cherries, blueberries and apples, these seasonal favorites are loved in particular as gifts by those who don't live in the climates where the fruits are common.

Orange and citrus fruit baskets, for example, are loved by Northerners during the winter months. Apples, cherries and even blackberries would be greatly appreciated by Southerners who generally only get their hands on these fruits waxed at grocery stores.

For those who want gift baskets that are more personal than just fruit, there are companies who will build fruit baskets to suit a particular client. They will include items requested or even those sent in and make sure the delivery is speedy enough to ensure the fruit is in its perfect eating form upon arrival.

Here are some ideas for more personalized fruit baskets either for friends, family or even business relations:

* Golf lover's fruit basket. This basket can include some great fruits to eat on the go while on the course such as apples and pears plus golf balls, towels, golf passes and more can be included to round out the gift.
* Baby showers. Fresh fruits and preserves can be arranged tastefully around items the mother-to-be will most certainly need - rattles, baby food items, clothing, towels, receiving blankets and more. Make sure to choose fruit the mommy craves while picking items that will particularly useful for the new little one.
* Fruit and wine baskets. Nothing compliments a great wine selection like fresh fruit, cheese, crackers and even gourmet breads if delivery is imminent.
* Strawberries and chocolates go together as well as peanut butter and jelly. If you want to create a strawberry basket that includes gourmet chocolates, that's more than doable.
* Holiday baskets. Send Florida fresh citrus at the holidays to friends and family and tuck other small, wrapped gifts into the basket. Nothing makes a cold morning's breakfast more special than a slice of fresh orange or fresh lemon for tea.
* Corporate gifts. These baskets tend to be the real eye catchers. Make sure to include something with your company's logo - a small box of chocolates, specialty card - and go to town.
* Valentine's Day. Fruit baskets here can be a real hit. These can include fresh strawberries, citrus, apples and more. Many companies will even have a selection of chocolates, wines or teddy bears and more to include in the basket and will offer personalization options as well.

No matter the occasion and no matter the recipient, fruit baskets are appropriate. Choose the fruits according to what you know people like and if possible get gift companies to include other items as well.