The end of the year brings a familiar challenge: finding holiday gifts for employees that strike the right balance between thoughtful and practical.
Skip the last-minute coffee mugs and generic gift cards! The best office gifts are the ones that feel personal without overcomplicating your budget.
And if you want to add a personal touch to your gifting, even a free online greeting card maker can turn a simple thank-you into something memorable.
12 holiday gifts for employees that deserve the best
Here’s a roundup of ideas that’ll make your team feel appreciated and ready to kick off the new year smiling. A little tip you can start on is to consider starting with bulk greeting cards to send a personalized note to everyone on the team.
1. Custom snack boxes
Who doesn’t love snacks?
Curate boxes filled with your team’s favorite treats but elevated. Think gourmet popcorn, chocolate-covered nuts, or local delicacies. You can even personalize them with a note that says, “Fuel for your next great idea.” Simple, tasty, and guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
2. Personalized thank you gifts
Here’s where you can go the extra mile. Customized thank you gifts hit differently because they show real effort.
It can be monogrammed tumblers, engraved pens, or custom art prints of the team. Also, platforms like GiftLips let you create a video greeting card for your thank-you moments, turning a simple token into a keepsake. For a more traditional route, you can always design a personal message using free online greeting card templates and print them out for a physical touch.
3. Cozy office blankets
For those who are always freezing under the AC, a soft, branded blanket would be a lifesaver. It’s practical, cute, and ideal for winter workdays or Netflix nights at home.
4. Desk plants that do not die easily
Low-maintenance plants like succulents or ZZ plants brighten up workspaces and boost mood. They’re easy to care for and make perfect employee appreciation gifts that keep on giving, and growing!
5. Greeting cards that feel genuine
Holiday cards can sometimes feel like an afterthought. But a well-crafted one can mean just as much as the gift itself.
Add a touching message or, better yet, make it digital with a personal twist. Tools like GiftLips lets you create a video message card that screams thoughtfulness. A warm, face-to-face thank you that feels miles away from a standard note. Perfect for hybrid or remote teams who can’t exchange cards in person.
6. Desk accessories
No one’s saying you should give another mug (seriously, everyone has enough). But unique desk accessories like magnetic sculptures, wireless charging pads, or retro flip calendars can add a splash of personality to any workspace.
They’re functional but still fun, and a subtle way to say, “Your desk deserves better.”
7. Experience-based gifts
Instead of physical items, give memories. Giving them greeting cards as thank you cards with gift cards for local restaurants, spa days, or even escape room passes can make a refreshing change. It’s a thoughtful way to encourage downtime and remind your team they’re more than just their to-do lists.
8. Office gift exchanging
If your office is all about festive fun, Secret Santa ideas for work can bring the team together without breaking anyone’s budget. Set a price cap and go for quirky-but-useful gifts like mini humidifiers, tiny Bluetooth speakers, or novelty socks.
Keep the mystery alive with a fun reveal party, complete with snacks, games, and maybe a small prize for “best gift.”
9. Subscription boxes that keep the joy coming
Think monthly coffee, self-care kits, or mystery book clubs. Subscription boxes are great because they’re the gift that keeps on giving, literally! This will surely contribute to a happy workplace and your employees will think of you every time a new box arrives.
10. Customized tech essentials
Tech is always a safe bet. Wireless earbuds, cable organizers, digital gifts, or portable chargers make solid picks. Bonus points if they’re customized with your company logo or the employee’s initials! Small touches like these turn simple gadgets into personalized thank you gifts that feel more meaningful.
11. DIY gift kits
Let your team tap into their creative side. Craft boxes, paint sets, or DIY hot chocolate kits bring a sense of playfulness to holiday gifting. It’s also a fun activity for a virtual office party where everyone can unbox and make something together.
12. Extra time off (aka the best gift ever!)
No material item beats extra time to recharge. A surprise half-day, an extended weekend, or even a “holiday recharge day” can mean the world after a busy year. It’s the ultimate way to say thank you for their hard work and loyalty.
How to pick the perfect employee appreciation gifts
When choosing holiday gifts for employees, think less about the price tag and more about what feels authentic. Personalized touches and genuine messages go a long way. You can mix practical gifts (like desk gear) with emotional ones (like thank-you notes) to strike a perfect balance.
If you’re not sure where to start, make a quick list of what your employees actually enjoy and tailor gifts around those themes. It shows that you notice and value them beyond their work.
Presentation makes your thoughtful greeting cards truly count
Even the best gift can fall flat if it’s poorly presented, and could impact employee engagement in the office. Wrap items in branded packaging, include a note, or even better, attach a short video greeting. Tools like GiftLips make this effortless, letting you send digital cards that carry more warmth than a plain email ever could.
What really matters when gifting your team
Your holiday gifts for employees is a reflection of how much you value your team’s work and dedication. A cozy blanket, a smart desk accessory, or even a short video greeting card can communicate appreciation in a way that feels personal and lasting.
At the end of the year, skip the overdone gift baskets and focus on quality gestures that feel authentic. The most memorable gifts don’t have to be expensive, just intentional. Because when gratitude feels genuine, it leaves an impression that lasts well past the holidays.
FAQs
What is the 7 gift rule?
The 7 gift rule suggests choosing one item from seven categories: something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read, something to do, something for home, and something that makes them smile. It’s a helpful guide for keeping gifts meaningful without going overboard.
What kind of gifts can be given to employees?
Gifts for employees should balance practicality and appreciation. Think useful items like quality drinkware, tech accessories, or wellness kits, paired with personal touches such as handwritten notes or small customizations.
Experiences like lunch vouchers, an extra day off, or team outings also work well. The key is to make the gift feel genuine and aligned with your company culture.