Ever notice how a small gift can completely turn someone’s day around? It’s not really about the gift itself—it’s about the thought behind it, the connection it creates, and the little spark of joy it brings. In fact, 75% of employees say a thoughtful holiday gift can boost morale in the workplace.
Even a simple gesture can make the office feel a bit warmer, especially during the chaos of the christmas holidays.
So, why not brighten up the season? Whether it’s for Secret Santa, a Christmas spirit-themed week or just because, here are 27 fun, thoughtful, and practical gift ideas to bring a smile to your colleagues’ faces!
1. Gift vouchers
Let’s be real now, gift vouchers are lifesavers during the Christmas season, especially for colleagues with kids. We’re not talking about huge amounts either! A $10 voucher for their favorite coffee shop or lunch spot can go a long way. It’s practical, thoughtful, and shows you care without going overboard. Plus, who wouldn’t appreciate a free treat when holiday expenses start piling up?
2. Personalized stocking
A personalized stocking adds that warm, festive touch everyone secretly loves. Embroidered with their name or initials, it’s perfect for hanging at their desk or taking home to fill with holiday treats. Stuff it with small surprises like candy canes or mini gadgets for extra fun. It’s thoughtful, festive, and way better than another generic holiday gift they’ll forget by January.
3. Hand cream set
Cold winter air during Christmas can be brutal on hands, making a hand cream set a thoughtful and practical gift. Look for rich, hydrating formulas with soothing scents like vanilla, shea butter, or peppermint. It’s the perfect desk essential to combat dryness while keeping their hands soft and comfortable through endless typing and chilly commutes. A cozy, much-appreciated holiday treat.
4. Aromatherapy roll-on
Help your coworkers find a moment of zen with an aromatherapy roll-on. Scents like lavender for relaxation or citrus for an energy boost are perfect for surviving stressful workdays. It’s discreet, easy to use, and adds a calming vibe to any hectic day. Just a quick dab, and suddenly that endless to-do list feels a little less intimidating. Instant relaxation, no meditation required.
5. Coffee sampler box
For the coworker who treats coffee like their lifeline, a sampler box is the perfect pick-me-up. Packed with unique blends and fun tasting notes, it’s like a coffee world tour in a box. Whether they love bold roasts or something smooth and sweet, there’s something for every sip. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to start conversations over the coffee machine. Thoughtful, easy, and delicious—what’s not to love?
6. Holiday potpourri pack
Nothing sets the holiday mood like a festive potpourri pack filled with dried fruit, spices, and pinecones. Think cinnamon, orange slices, and hints of pine for that cozy, Christmas-market vibe. It’s the perfect gift for adding instant seasonal fragrance to their home or desk. Bonus: It lasts way longer than a candle making it a great, long-lasting appreciation gift idea!
7. Mini desktop vacuum
Say goodbye to crumb-covered keyboards with a mini desktop vacuum. It’s fun, oddly satisfying, and surprisingly useful for anyone who snacks at their desk (so...everyone). Compact and easy to use, it tackles everything from chip dust to pencil shavings. Cleaning suddenly feels less like a chore and more like a quick productivity win. It’s the perfect gadget for neat freaks (or aspiring ones).
8. Festive desk garland
Turn a boring desk into a holiday masterpiece with some festive garland. Whether it’s twinkly lights, mini snowflakes, or classic tinsel, it’s an easy way to spread Christmas cheer without needing a degree in decorating. Wrap it around their monitor, drape it over shelves, or let creativity take over. Instant holiday magic with zero assembly required—well, maybe just a little tape.
9. Reindeer antler headband
Reindeer antler headbands are a holiday must-have for anyone who likes fun without taking themselves too seriously. Perfect for company holiday parties, holiday selfies, or just jazzing up a casual Friday. Go for a sparkly or light-up version if you really want to spread the cheer. It’s playful, festive, and guaranteed to make at least one coworker crack a smile!
10. Chocolate sampler box
Chocolate is the universal love language, and a sampler box is basically happiness in edible form. Think assorted truffles, dark chocolate squares, and fun seasonal flavors wrapped up in a delicious package. It’s perfect for sharing or keeping all to themselves (no judgment). Whether they’re celebrating a win or surviving a deadline, this sweet treat guarantees instant joy, one satisfying bite at a time.
11. Mini Christmas tree
Nothing says “holiday spirit” like a mini Christmas tree right on their desk. Add tiny ornaments, fairy lights, and maybe even a mini star if you’re feeling fancy. It’s festive without being over-the-top and brings instant Christmas vibes to any workspace. Why not throw in a few personalized decorations? Everyone deserves their own little winter wonderland at work.
12. Mini spa kit
Give the gift of relaxation with a mini spa kit filled with bath salts, face masks, or body scrubs. After the holiday hustle, everyone deserves a little pampering. Choose calming scents like eucalyptus or lavender to help them unwind after busy days and late-night gift wrapping. This thoughtful gift turns any evening into a personal spa retreat—no appointment needed.
13. Advent calendar
Who doesn’t love counting down to Christmas with a fun advent calendar? Go beyond the usual chocolate-filled ones and pick something unique, like coffee samples, mini candles, or quirky office gadgets. It’s the gift that keeps on giving all month long, making every day in December feel like a little celebration. Bonus points if it comes with treats they can share (or not).
14. Desk plant (low maintenance)
Brighten their desk, and their mood, with a low-maintenance desk plant like a succulent or pothos. These green companions thrive on neglect, making them perfect for busy coworkers or anyone prone to forgetting watering day. Adding a touch of nature is an instant workspace upgrade, and let’s be real, plants just make everyone happier. Plus, it’s a gift that lasts long after the holidays, making it a win for their vibe.
15. Personalized calendar
Turn a desk staple into a fun, personalized gift by customizing a calendar with team photos, inside jokes, or memorable office moments. It’s both practical and meaningful, adding a personal touch they’ll appreciate every single day. Each month brings a fresh reminder of shared laughs and good times, making workdays a little brighter. Make sure they mark the epic Christmas office party!
16. Mini whiteboard
A mini whiteboard is the perfect mix of practical and fun. Use it for quick reminders, brainstorming sessions, or even doodling during long meetings. Add colorful markers and magnets for extra flair. It’s small enough to fit on any desk but big enough to boost productivity or display some very questionable office art. Practical, creative, and endlessly useful.
17. Desk warning sign
A clever desk warning sign can be the ultimate workspace upgrade. Think “Do Not Disturb” or “Brainstorming in Progress” for a fun, functional gift that helps set boundaries or just adds some personality to their desk. Pick something witty or customized to their sense of humor for extra charm. It’s a playful way to say, “I get you,” while subtly supporting their need for focus time.
18. Novelty tie or scarf
Add some festive flair to their holiday wardrobe with a novelty tie or scarf featuring fun Christmas patterns like snowflakes, reindeer, or cheeky holiday slogans. It’s a playful way to keep the holiday spirit alive during year-end meetings. Whether they wear it proudly or as a seasonal joke, it’s guaranteed to spread some Christmas cheer around the office.
19. Christmas recipe book
Let’s face it—not everyone’s a turkey-roasting pro, and Brussel sprouts could definitely use a glow-up. A Christmas recipe book filled with festive meal ideas is both fun and useful. From perfecting classic dishes to discovering new holiday treats, it’s a great way to inspire some culinary creativity. Make sure you bookmark the best dessert recipes. You know, for office potluck “research”, wink wink.
20. Desktop game or puzzle
Sometimes, work calls for a playful escape, and a desktop game or puzzle fits the bill perfectly. From mini Jenga to quirky brain teasers, these tiny stress relievers offer a quick mental reset without taking up too much desk space. It’s a fun way to spark creativity or bond with colleagues. Who wouldn’t love a gift that makes the workday feel a little more fun?
21. Wireless phone chargers
For the coworker who’s always hunting for a phone cable, a wireless charger is the ultimate desk upgrade. No more tangled cords or scrambling for a charger during long calls. Just set the phone down, and boom, charging magic happens. Sleek, simple, and perfect for boosting productivity without interruptions. Plus, it makes their workspace look super modern and like they’re living in the future already.
22. Reusable water bottles
Help your coworkers stay hydrated in style with a sleek reusable water bottle. Look for ones that keep drinks icy cold or piping hot because hydration should be fancy too. Try make sure it’s spill-proof and fits in a bag without leaking, we want to tick off all the boxes here. It’s practical, eco-friendly, and way cooler than using sad, disposable bottles. Plus, every sip reminds them you’re basically their hydration hero.
23. Scented candle
A scented candle is a classic gift that instantly upgrades any workspace. Choose calming scents like lavender for a relaxed vibe or energizing citrus to kickstart creativity. It’s thoughtful, cozy, and perfect for setting the mood during busy workdays or winding down after hours. Bonus points if you pick one with a fun label or motivational quote. They’ll think of you every time they light it up!
24. Holiday cookie cutter set
For the coworker who’s always baking or “thinking about baking,” a holiday cookie cutter set is a sweet win. Think stars, Christmas trees, and gingerbread people ready for some serious dough action. It’s a fun, creative gift that practically screams “cookie swap incoming.” And if you’re lucky, maybe some homemade treats will magically appear in the break room.
25. Mini stress toy
A mini stress toy is the perfect desk buddy for tough workdays. Think squishy avocados, fidget spinners, or stress balls that can survive even the hardest squeezes. They’re fun, functional, and ideal for quick stress relief during tight deadlines. Consider picking something silly or cute that makes them smile even if they’re only squeezing it out of frustration. Instant mood booster guaranteed!
26. Personalized mug warmer
Cold coffee is nobody’s favorite, so a mug warmer is the ultimate desk upgrade. It keeps their drink warm through endless meetings, offering a little comfort on those hectic days. Customise it with their name, a fun design, or even an inside joke to make it extra special. It’s practical, personal, and guaranteed to make their workday just a little cozier.
27. Desk organizers
Turn desk chaos into ordered bliss with a stylish desk organizer. Whether it’s a minimalist tray or a multi-compartment holder, it keeps essentials like pens, sticky notes, and phone chargers in check. No more rummaging through drawers during meetings! It’s the perfect mix of functional and fancy, making their workspace look effortlessly put together and as though they have their life totally under control (even when they don’t).
I’m a manager, what can I get my team this year?
We bet this ones been keeping you up at night! How can you give your team some positive affirmation as a collective? Well, this is the perfect chance to get the team together for an end-of-year or beginning-of-the-year meet-up. With Surf Office handling the details, all that’s left is to show up and make lasting memories.
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