Today we’d like to introduce you to Joyce Arrieta.
Joyce, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Joyce’s Baskets began with uncertainty—but also with hope.
Years ago, I was working in the Miami banking industry when the market shifted, and I suddenly found myself unemployed. Like so many others, I was left facing the unknown, unsure of what would come next. Deep down, I had always dreamed of owning a business—something that allowed me to create, connect with people, and shape my own future—but I just didn’t know what that business looked like.
One day, while sharing my fears with a small business owner, we started talking about different business ideas. Nothing really clicked—until she suggested I try gift baskets. At the time, I was working part-time in a upsale store in the gift wrapping department, and I thought, “Why not? Let’s see where this goes.” It was right around Easter, so I put together a simple flyer, brought it to her nail salon, and hoped for a few orders.
To my surprise, I received ten. And by the time Easter arrived, I had created and sold 111 baskets. I didn’t even know if I made a profit, but I knew I had found something that brought me joy—and brought joy to others. That was the start of Joyce’s Baskets in 2002.
I had no formal business background—just passion, determination, and a willingness to learn. I invested what little I had to attend my first gift basket convention in Jacksonville, Florida, and that experience sealed the deal. I left feeling inspired and ready to build something meaningful.
Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. When the housing market took a downturn, business slowed, and I had to pivot and push through with creativity and grit. Then, during the height of COVID-19, things got tough again. With so many events canceled and uncertainty in the air, I had to quickly adapt my offerings, rethink how I connected with customers, and focus more on curated personal gifts that helped people feel close—especially when they had to be apart.
Those hard times taught me to be flexible, to innovate, and to stay grounded in my “why.” Through it all, I’ve stayed committed to the mission: helping people give beautifully designed, meaningful gifts that show appreciation, celebrate milestones, or simply say, “I’m thinking of you.”
Today, Joyce’s Baskets is proud to serve both local and national clients, from individuals to corporations and hospitality businesses. I’m a certified gift designer, a published co-author in the industry, and have had the honor of speaking at national conventions to encourage others who are just beginning their journey.
Looking back, I never could have imagined where that first flyer would lead. But every high, every low, every moment in between—it’s all been worth it.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has definitely had its bumps. Like most business owners, I’ve faced my share of challenges—but I’ve always believed that running a business is really about becoming a problem solver. You have to stay flexible, resourceful, and willing to adapt when life throws you the unexpected.
Back in 2008, when the housing market crashed, it hit my business hard. I had built a strong client base of realtors, but when the real estate industry came to a halt, many of them disappeared almost overnight. It was a tough time. I questioned whether I should keep going or close the doors like so many others did. But I knew I didn’t want to give up. I adjusted where I could, cut costs, and started exploring new opportunities outside of real estate. That decision to keep pushing forward helped me stay in the game—and grow.
Then years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the world changed again. People were stuck, unable to travel home, separated from their loved ones, and feeling anxious about the unknown. I knew gift baskets couldn’t solve those problems—but they could offer a bit of comfort. So I started creating snack gift boxes with puzzle books and games—something to help people pass the time and feel a little more at ease while waiting for clearance to travel.
That time also gave me a deep sense of community. I donated healthy snack boxes to first responders, hospital ER departments, and local police stations. Each gift was carefully prepared under strict safety protocols, and we included a note explaining how every step was handled with care. I wasn’t just operating a business—I was contributing to something bigger, showing appreciation in a meaningful, tangible way.
Those experiences reminded me why I started Joyce’s Baskets in the first place: to bring a little light, joy, and connection into people’s lives—especially when they need it most.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Joyce’s Baskets?
Joyce’s Baskets is a Miami-based corporate and personal gift basket company that specializes in creating beautifully curated, high-quality gift baskets for every occasion. From corporate events and team appreciation to personal celebrations, we design gifts that help people feel appreciated, valued, and connected. We also offer customized conference and retreat welcome gifts for attendees coming to Florida, adding a local and thoughtful touch to corporate gatherings and special events.
What sets Joyce’s Baskets apart is our commitment to personalization and quality. We understand that every gift should feel special and reflect the care behind it, so we work closely with each client to ensure every basket meets their unique needs. Whether it’s a thank-you gift for a client or a special gesture for a loved one, our baskets are designed to make an impact.
We take pride in our dedicated team of skilled gift professionals who help bring each basket to life, ensuring it’s not just a gift but an experience. From careful curation to thoughtful presentation, we aim to exceed our clients’ expectations every time.
What I’m most proud of is the evolution of Joyce’s Baskets—from a one-woman operation to a trusted brand known for delivering excellence in gifting. We’ve built a strong reputation within the corporate gifting space and are recognized for our innovative designs and impeccable attention to detail. Beyond just gifts, we are about creating lasting connections, celebrating milestones, and making every recipient feel truly appreciated.
At the heart of our brand is a passion for service and a belief in the power of thoughtful gifting. We want our readers to know that at Joyce’s Baskets, we’re not just about filling baskets—we’re about making every moment special, one gift at a time.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that perseverance and adaptability are key to sustaining success, especially in the face of challenges. In the early years, there were moments where I doubted myself, especially during tough economic times or when faced with unexpected obstacles like the housing market crash or the COVID-19 pandemic. But instead of giving up, I learned to pivot and think creatively. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances—whether it’s adjusting my offerings or finding new ways to connect with clients—has been essential to growing my business.
Another valuable lesson is the importance of building and nurturing relationships. Whether it’s with clients, partners, or my team, those relationships are the foundation of my business. When I’m focused on offering genuine value and being a resource for others, it comes back tenfold. I’ve learned that business is ultimately about people—and those connections are what make everything worthwhile.
Pricing:
- • Gourmet Gift Baskets – Starting at $119.99 and up Beautifully curated baskets perfect for any occasion, filled with high-quality gourmet items.
- • Florida Gifts – Starting at $79.99 and up A local touch for those celebrating in Florida, with products that reflect the spirit of the state.
- • Thank You Gifts – Starting at $119.99 and up Thoughtful baskets to express gratitude and appreciation for clients, colleagues, or loved ones.
- • Birthday Gifts – Starting at $79.99 and up Celebrate birthdays with a special selection of personalized gift baskets.
- • Custom Corporate Gifts – Pricing varies Fully customized solutions for corporate events, conferences, and client appreciation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joycesbaskets.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joycesbaskets
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/joycesbaskets.miami
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joycesbaskets
