The case for a mixed collection is simple. It sidesteps the guesswork of a single flavour, Lily O'Brien's it gives him range to work through rather than a box finished in one sitting, and it reads as generous without needing an excuse. Birthdays, a new job, Father's Day, a thank you, or no occasion at all: a large box covers the lot, which makes it the reliable default when you are not sure what else to choose.

Keep the gift aimed at the adults, personalise it for the day, and check the detail before you order. A named box of chocolates handcrafted with a bit of provenance behind it marks a christening or an announcement in a way that feels chosen, and it gives the parents something that is unmistakably for them.

A few practical points make personalisation go smoothly. Check the character limit before writing your message, and read the spelling back carefully, since a printed name is permanent and a misspelt one is worse than none. If you are working from an image, use a clear, bright one. Allow extra time in the order, because personalised print adds a step, and longer still if the christening falls near Christmas.

A photo box leans sentimental. It suits occasions where the image itself is the gift: a new baby, a milestone birthday, a first anniversary, or a long-distance thank you where a familiar face lands better than words. Choose a photograph with a clear subject and a bit of breathing room around it, since busy images crop awkwardly onto a small lid. A bright, well-lit shot reproduces far better than a dark one.

Think about what the thank you is actually for. A colleague who covered for you, a neighbour who took a delivery, a friend who helped you move: these are favours returned, and the correct scale is warm but light. A mid-size box says thank you clearly without making the other person feel they now owe you something back. It is the everyday workhorse of considered gifting.

Personalisation is worth thinking about early. A printed message, a monogram or the wedding date turns a nice box into a keepsake. Ask what the personalisation actually involves before you commit, since some options print onto the sleeve and others onto a card insert, and the two photograph very differently across a long table.