Here are some creative and inexpensive ideas for decorating baskets for Easter lovers of all ages.

Rummaging through aisles of Easter candy and décor can be overwhelming, especially in a time where you may only have a $20 bill in your wallet and a family waiting at home for the Easter bunny to deliver. So, to help you out here are some money-saving, yet innovative, ideas for Easter baskets.

First things first: the basket. Look around your house for a basket you haven’t used in a while or one that’s collecting dust on a shelf. If you can’t find one there, garage sales and thrift stores are great places to find used baskets for your Easter decorating needs. Or ask a friend – odds are good that someone would be glad to clear out a few from a closet.

For children, use pastel colors to create a whimsical feel. Soft marshmallow candies like Peeps are perfect for their tiny fingers.

For teenagers and college students, bright, vibrant colors set the trend this year. Liven up their drab dorm room with hot pink, bright blue, and neon green.

Adolescents love snack foods, something quick for their on-the-go lifestyle. Jellybeans, M&M’s, and Skittles are a bright and tasty addition to their basket.

For adults, rich colors will be a perfect accent to the dark chocolate treats in their basket.

Don’t feel pressured to buy hundreds of packages of candy and chocolate to load the Easter baskets. Baked goods are inexpensive crowd pleasers for Easter egg hunters of all ages.

For the little ones, consider soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies. For the teenagers, trail mix and caramel drizzled popcorn. And for the adults, fresh baked bread or chocolate covered cashews provide upscale delight.

It’s important when giving these holiday gifts to keep in mind their versatile nature. Think green, and create these baskets in a way that they can be reused.

Your friend might use her basket as a centerpiece on her coffee table all year round or as a decorative piece in her office. A college freshman, might use his basket as an organizational tool for collecting important papers or toiletries.

Decorating Easter baskets is a tradition that has been carried out through many generations. Money may be tight, but take a little extra time to help your family and friends enjoy the gift of Easter baskets . . . and their tasty treats.

– The Food Channel