Clever Cloche

A cloche, or bell jar, is used in conservatories to safeguard young plants.  Take the same concept and turn it into a present under glass.  Instead of a plant, slip botanical beauty products under a bell jar for an elegant twist on an all-occasion gift basket.  It’s a gift under a gift – when the beauty products are gone, the cloche can be used as a stylish tabletop greenhouse for herbs or indoor plants. 
 

Here’s How:

1. Arrange a bottle of liquid hand soap and potpourri spray with a scented candle on a decorative yellow plate.  Choose herbal scents that co-mingle naturally, like lavender, eucalyptus and lemon.  Nestle a matching silk blossom in front.

2. Cover the arrangement with a glass cloche.  Cloches come in several sizes and can be bought at flea markets, garden centers or online from specialty and garden supply retailers.

3. Wrap the cloche in a square of sheer iridescent fabric, like organdy or gauze, and tie a sheer green bow around the top to close.  Tuck a second blossom and a gift card in the knot of the bow.

Instead of herbals, try citrus products and an orange blossom, wrapped in yellow fabric and an orange bow or fruit scents with a cluster of strawberries, pale green fabric and a red bow.

Terrific Tip:  Pamper yourself – and your guests – by making a cloche display to set in a powder room or guest bathroom, where everyone can enjoy its functional beauty.