Meet Virginia Luttrell | Owner of Gift basket and gift company

We had the good fortune of connecting with Virginia Luttrell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Virginia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
“I started my own business because I wanted to do something I truly enjoy—creating thoughtful, meaningful gifts that make people feel special. After working many years in another field, I saw an opportunity to turn my passion into something more. I love being able to use my creativity to help people give gifts that leave a lasting impression. Running my own business also gives me the freedom to do things my way and connect more personally with my customers.”

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
“My art lies in creating beautifully curated, personalized gifts that tell a story and leave a lasting impression. At Perfect Selection Creative Gifts, what sets us apart is the attention to detail and the heart behind every design—I take the time to understand the occasion, the recipient, and the message my clients want to convey. Each gift is thoughtfully crafted to reflect care, meaning, and creativity.

I’m most proud of turning a passion into a thriving business that brings joy to others. It hasn’t always been easy—starting from scratch meant long hours, learning new skills, and navigating challenges I’d never faced before. But I stayed committed, leaned on my support system, and focused on growing one step at a time. I’ve learned that perseverance, consistency, and staying true to your purpose are key to overcoming obstacles.

What I want the world to know about me and Perfect Selection Creative Gifts is that we don’t just create gifts—we create experiences. Every package is a reflection of love, celebration, and connection. My story is one of reinvention, creativity, and the belief that it’s never too late to chase what lights you up.”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the perfect blend of Southern charm, upscale vibes, and scenic beauty that Charlotte and the Lake Norman area have to offer. Here’s how I’d plan it:

Day 1: Welcome to Charlotte
We’d kick off the trip with dinner at The Fig Tree Restaurant, a beautiful historic home turned fine dining spot in Charlotte. Afterward, we’d head to The Crunkleton in Elizabeth for handcrafted cocktails in a chic, speakeasy-style setting.

Day 2: Explore Uptown
We’d start with brunch at Fahrenheit, with its stunning rooftop views of the city skyline. Then we’d walk around Uptown Charlotte, visit the Mint Museum, and stop by Camp North End for art, food trucks, and cool pop-ups. Dinner would be at Church and Union, known for its trendy atmosphere and creative cuisine.

Day 3: Day on Lake Norman
We’d spend the day enjoying the lake—renting a boat or just relaxing by the water. Lunch at Hello, Sailor in Cornelius is a must—casual yet upscale with amazing lakefront views. For dinner, I’d take them to Kindred in Davidson, a nationally recognized gem with an inventive menu and cozy-chic feel.

Day 4: Spa + Shopping
We’d indulge in a spa day at The Ritz-Carlton Spa or The Ballantyne Hotel Spa, followed by an afternoon of shopping at SouthPark Mall, home to upscale stores like Neiman Marcus and Louis Vuitton. Dinner that night would be at Barrington’s, a small but elegant spot with incredible seasonal dishes.

Day 5: Wine & Culture
We’d do a wine tasting at Veronét Vineyards & Winery, about 45 minutes from the city, with beautiful views of the mountains. On the way back, we’d stop in NoDa for a laid-back dinner at Haberdish, a Southern kitchen with a modern twist, and enjoy the local art and live music.

Day 6: Davidson + Lakeside Relaxation
We’d explore the charming town of Davidson, stroll through Main Street Books, grab coffee at Summit Coffee, and enjoy a laid-back afternoon by the lake. Dinner would be at North Harbor Club, offering an elegant lakeside dining experience.

Day 7: Final Farewell
For the last day, we’d do brunch at RH Rooftop Restaurant in SouthPark—beautiful ambiance, perfect for a final toast. We’d take a scenic drive through the Charlotte Greenway or relax in Freedom Park before a casual dinner at Soul Gastrolounge, known for its bold flavors and cool vibe.

There are so many amazing people, places, and experiences here—from vibrant arts and upscale dining to serene lake views and charming towns. It’s a place that blends sophistication with Southern warmth, and I love sharing it with those closest to me.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
“Absolutely—my biggest shoutout goes to my husband. From the very beginning, he has been my greatest supporter, always encouraging me to follow my passion and believe in myself. His unwavering love, patience, and belief in my vision gave me the confidence to take the leap into entrepreneurship. He’s been there through every late night, big decision, and milestone, and I truly couldn’t have built this business without his constant support and partnership. I’m incredibly grateful to have him by my side for forty plus years.””

Website: https://Perfectselectioncreativegifts.com

Instagram: perfect_selection_cg

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/perfectselectioncreativegifts

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/12JaRaMh8gq/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits
Virginia Luttrell
Rich Luttrell