Think outside the gift

Johannesburg, 1 November, 2010 - Closet gift box collector? Then you’ll love NetGifts’ unique new packaging. The quirky funny people at NetGifts (NetFlorist’s new gifting site) got together with the creative geniuses from the contemporary Design Team to bring South Africans gift boxes that look as exciting on the outside as the gift that is within. With the festive season around the corner, the new boxes are just in time to make a stylish statement and take centre stage under your friends’ and family’s Christmas trees.

Sue Morris, marketing executive for NetGifts, and Lise Butler, co-owner of Design Team, share the story of how the boxes came into being.

How did the partnership come about?
Design Team (DT): We recently partnered with the team from NetFlorist to produce a range of floral arrangements with a uniquely South African twist. We loved their energy and ability to think out of the box – pardon the pun! NetGifts (NG): When the decision to introduce NetGifts was made, we began looking for a new direction for our packaging that was contemporary, bold and gorgeous. Design Team’s extraordinary, local designs, which are quite iconic, fitted the bill perfectly.

What inspired the two designs?
DT: “Towns,” which features the names of South African destinations including Polokwane, Tshwane and Jozi, was created at the time when the Government decided to change the names of many places in South Africa – we like adding a little humour and quirkiness to our work. “Icons of Africa” is a very simple repeat design showing several South African icons such as proteas and potjie pots. NG: When choosing the designs we wanted to select something that reflected Design Team’s signature style and was synonymous with South Africa. We decided to stick with the black and white theme that people have come to love and expect from NetFlorist. The new range of packaging is a fresh take that’s totally on trend.

What does great packaging add to a gift?
DT: Packaging is at least equal to the gift inside it! If the packaging is beautiful and it’s obvious that some thought has gone into it, opening the gift becomes a wonderful experience, regardless of the gift inside. NG: While the actual gift and the thought behind it are core, presentation adds delight to the experience of receiving a gift and the excitement as to what is inside. Packaging creates a bit of magic and that’s why so many of us women have shelves full of packaging, ribbons and giftwrap.

What are your thoughts on online shopping, especially for gifts?
DT: Excellent idea – as a busy working mom I know how precious time is and online gift shopping sure is a time saver! NG: Online shopping in South Africa has evolved from a meagre selection of fruit baskets and other such generic offerings to a mind-boggling variety of gifts suited to every taste and occasion. NetFlorist has developed a solid reputation for making sure that what you see is what you get and our delivery is prompt and reliable. We are confident that this reputation will carry over into NetGifts and that clients will rest assured that the gifts they send are of superb quality and that they will come beautifully packaged as well.

About NetGifts
Thinking about a gift and how you’re going to send it? Think NetGifts, brought to you by NetFlorist, South Africa's most trusted flower and gift delivery company. Developed to house the company's ever-expanding range of gifts, which currently stands at over 400 options, www.netgifts.co.za offers top-quality gifts that are speedily delivered anywhere in South Africa. The unique gifts ordered online or over the phone, as well as the stunning packaging and top-notch delivery service, all add up to convenience and great value for money. Friends, family and business associates will be thrilled to have a NetGifts package arrive at their doorstep, making the gifts you send them truly memorable. With its finger on the pulse of the latest trends, NetGifts has something to suit every taste and occasion, so you'll never battle to choose or send a gift again. From bracelets to balloon flights and cookies to country getaways, visit www.netgifts.co.za for gift ideas that will inspire you.