christmas gifts for employees
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20 Best Christmas Gifts for Employees in 2024

by Teresa Finn on Nov 22, 2024

The holiday season is the perfect time to recognize your employees' hard work and dedication. Selecting meaningful Christmas gifts for employees doesn’t just bring seasonal cheer; it strengthens morale, fosters loyalty, and shows employees they’re valued. Adding a personal touch, like a handwritten card, can make each gift even more meaningful, as it allows you to express genuine appreciation and create a lasting, heartfelt connection with your team. 


Let’s dive into creative  Christmas gift ideas for employees for 2024, covering everything from affordable to unique options - each made special with a personalized note.

Why Give Christmas Gifts For Employees?

Holiday gifting for employees isn’t just a feel-good gesture; it’s a meaningful way to strengthen team connections and show that every contribution is valued. Recognizing employees with Christmas gifts for employees during the festive season creates a positive atmosphere that resonates throughout the year.

  •  Boosts Morale and Unity: Acknowledging hard work makes employees feel seen and motivates them to maintain and exceed performance.

  •  Reflects Company Values: The selected gifts can reinforce your company’s mission and culture, showing employees what the company truly stands for.

  •  Fosters Loyalty and Retention: Employees who feel genuinely valued are more likely to stay with the company, reducing turnover and strengthening commitment.

Why Give Christmas Gifts For Employees?
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

Tips for Choosing Good Christmas Gifts for Employees

To make your  gifts for employees Christmas truly special, consider these essential tips:

Aligning Gifts with Company Culture

Is your workplace formal, or is it relaxed and creative? Aligning gifts with your company culture ensures the gift feels appropriate. A quirky tech company might opt for personalized office items. At the same time, a more traditional business could look to classic, elegant options.

Setting a Budget for Employee Gifts

Establishing a budget helps keep gift-giving fair. Remember, meaningful Christmas gifts for employees don’t have to be extravagant—the thought and sentiment matter most.

Making It Personal: Customizing Gifts for Individual Preferences

Whenever possible, add a touch of personalization. Engraved names, initials, or messages can make even simple gifts feel thoughtful and memorable.

Balancing Practicality with Festivity

While holiday-themed gifts are festive, practical presents that can be used year-round often leave a lasting impression. A balance of both can keep the gift meaningful.

Top 20 Christmas Gift Ideas for Employees

Look at some of the best Christmas gifts for employees this season, from budget-friendly options to luxe choices for long-term or executive team members.

20. Gift Cards and E-Vouchers

Gift cards are a versatile and universally appreciated option, allowing employees to select something they’ll enjoy. Most teams work well with options like Amazon, Target, or local retailers. For more specialized gifts, consider e-vouchers for meal delivery services like Uber Eats or even online courses if you have a team keen on personal development.

Gift Cards and E-Vouchers
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

19. Cheers to Festive Drinks

For a cozy night in or a celebration with loved ones, drinks make for versatile and appreciated gifts. Consider these options:

  •  Champagne or Sparkling Wine: A celebratory favorite.

  •  Artisanal Wines: Sophisticated and perfect for the wine connoisseur.

  •  Craft Beers: A unique gift for beer enthusiasts.

  •  Cocktail or Mocktail Mixers: Help them craft the perfect drink at home.

  •  Whiskey or Bourbon Tasting Sets: A luxurious treat for spirit lovers.

  •  Specialty Coffee Blends: Elevate their coffee break.

  •  Gourmet Tea Sets: For a relaxing and refreshing treat.

  •  Hot Chocolate Kits: Complete with marshmallows for a cozy winter night.

  •  Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Beverages: Perfect for inclusive celebrations.

  •  Infused Water Bottles: Encourage hydration with a creative twist.

🍹  Creative Twist: Include recipe cards or pairing suggestions to make these gifts even more special.

Cheers to Festive Drinks
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

18. Personalized Holiday Mugs

A holiday mug adds a bit of festive cheer and a personal touch. Customize these mugs with each employee’s name, initials, or a cheerful holiday greeting, and consider pairing the gift with a pack of gourmet hot cocoa or flavored tea. This gift is great for creating a sense of warmth and is easy on the budget while still feeling special.

17. Scented Candles for a Cozy Holiday Ambience

Candles bring a relaxing atmosphere to any space, making them perfect for winding down during the holidays. Choose scents that evoke the season, like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla, to help your employees set a cozy mood at home. Look for quality brands that offer long burn times, or consider eco-friendly candles made with soy wax and natural fragrances.

Christmas Candles
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

16. Innovative Tech Gifts for the Modern Workplace

Technology isn’t just practical—it’s a daily lifesaver for most people. These thoughtful tech gifts will impress your employees by making their lives easier and more enjoyable:

  •  Wireless Earbuds or Headphones: Elevate their music, calls, or podcasts on the go.

  •  Portable Phone Chargers: Say goodbye to battery anxiety with this perfect travel companion.

  •  Bluetooth Speakers: Turn up the holiday cheer with crystal-clear sound anywhere.

  •  Smart Notebooks: For employees who want to digitize notes with a tech-savvy touch.

  •  Wireless Mouse or Keyboard: Ergonomic, modern, and a productivity booster.

  •  USB Hubs or Multi-Port Adapters: The ultimate workstation upgrade for multitaskers.

  •  Desk Cable Organizers: Keep their workspace sleek and tidy.

  •  Laptop Stands: Support better posture and work efficiency.

  •  Fitness Trackers: Inspire healthier habits and promote wellness year-round.

🎁  Pro Tip: Personalize these gadgets with your company logo or the employee’s name for an extra-special touch!

Innovative Tech Gifts for the Modern Workplace
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

15. Personalized Christmas Ornaments

For something unique, consider personalized ornaments as holiday keepsakes. These can feature the employee’s name, the year, or even a meaningful symbol that aligns with the company’s values. Customized Christmas ornaments are memorable, and employees can hang them on their trees, making them a gift they’ll look forward to year after year.

14. Ergonomic Office Accessories

Support your team’s well-being with ergonomic gifts that enhance comfort and productivity. Adjustable laptop stands, ergonomic mouse pads, or lumbar support cushions are practical and thoughtful Christmas gifts for employees, especially for remote or hybrid employees spending long hours at their desks.

Office Accessories - Christmas Gifts for Employees
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

13. Unforgettable Experience Days

Why give material gifts when you can provide memories that last a lifetime? Experience-based gifts allow employees to enjoy moments they’ll treasure forever. Consider these options:

  •  Cooking or Baking Classes: Perfect for foodies and creative spirits.

  •  Spa or Massage Treatments: A luxurious way to unwind during the festive season.

  •  Zip-Lining or Skydiving: Thrills for the adventurous at heart.

  •  Hot Air Balloon Rides: An unforgettable way to take in breathtaking views.

  •  Track Days: Let your employees experience the rush of driving high-performance cars.

  •  Theme Park Tickets: Fun for employees and their families alike.

  •  Wine Tasting or Brewery Tours: Perfect for those who love exploring new flavors.

  •  Escape Room Vouchers: Great for team-building and problem-solving enthusiasts.

🌟 Idea: Pair these experiences with a heartfelt thank-you card to make the gesture more meaningful.

Cooking or Baking Classes
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

12. Socks

A simple yet heartfelt gift, cozy socks are perfect for the winter season. Look for high-quality materials like wool or fleece, and consider playful holiday designs to bring a smile. You could create sock bundles based on each employee’s style for a more personalized touch.

11. Home Office Plant Kits

Plants can bring life and color to a workspace, whether at home or in the office. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or ZZ plants, which are easy to care for and thrive indoors. Some plant kits come with all the necessary supplies and instructions, making it easy for anyone to enjoy a green gift.
Home Office Plant Kits

10. Clothing

From branded company apparel to cozy hoodies or beanies, clothing can be functional and a way to build team spirit. Customize items with subtle logos or uplifting phrases that reflect your company culture. High-quality, comfortable clothing is always a crowd-pleaser and wearable gifts make for an enduring reminder of your appreciation.

9. Books: The Gift of Knowledge and Inspiration

Books are timeless treasures that entertain, educate, and inspire. Here are some genres and themes that make for perfect gifts:

  •  Best-Selling Novels: Give them a page-turner they can’t put down.

  •  Classic Literature: Timeless tales that never go out of style.

  •  Personal Development and Productivity: Help them achieve their goals.

  •  Business and Entrepreneurship: Inspire innovative thinking and creativity.

  •  Self-Help Books: Empower employees to focus on well-being and growth.

  •  History or Biographies: Fascinating stories that bring the past to life.

  •  Cooking Books: Perfect for anyone who loves experimenting in the kitchen.

  •  Humor and Graphic Novels: Light-hearted reads to brighten their day.

  •  Poetry Collections:  Beautiful and thought-provoking gifts for literature lovers.

📖  Personal Tip: Consider adding a handwritten note inside the cover to share your gratitude.

Books - christmas gifts for employees​
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

8. Personalized Tumblers

Help employees keep their drinks at the perfect temperature with a personalized tumbler. These can be customized with names, favorite quotes, or motivational messages. Look for vacuum-insulated tumblers to keep drinks hot or cold, making them suitable for any season.

7. Customizable Gift Baskets for a Personal Touch

Nothing says “thoughtful” quite like a beautifully curated gift basket. Tailor these to your employees’ preferences for maximum impact:

  •  Gourmet Snack Baskets: Packed with savory treats.

  •  Chocolate and Sweets Hampers: Indulge their sweet tooth.

  •  Cheese and Wine Pairing Sets: An elegant choice for foodies.

  •  Artisan Coffee and Tea Hampers: Perfect for caffeine enthusiasts.

  •  Luxury Fruit Baskets: A healthy yet indulgent option.

  •  Breakfast-Themed Hampers: Pancake mix, syrups, and jams for cozy mornings.

  •  International Food Baskets: Showcase cuisines like Italian or Mexican.

  •  Vegan or Gluten-Free Hampers: Thoughtfully catered to dietary needs.

  •  DIY Baking Kits: Inspire creativity in the kitchen.

🎀  Pro Tip: Add festive packaging for a truly magical unwrapping experience.

Customizable Gift Baskets for a Personal Touch
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

6. Luxury Leather Goods

For a more refined gift, leather items like wallets, cardholders, or portfolios offer elegance. These make excellent gifts for senior or long-term employees as they’re functional and signify your appreciation with something timeless. Choose high-quality leather for durability, and consider embossing initials for an extra-special touch.

5. Mini First Aid Kits

Practical and compact, mini first aid kits can be a unique yet useful gift. They’re particularly appreciated by employees who travel often. Look for kits with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers, ensuring they’re well-equipped for any minor mishaps that might come their way.
Mini First Aid Kits
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

4. Leather Strap Watch

A leather strap watch combines function and style, making it an excellent gift for employees you want to recognize with something special. Choose classic designs for timeless appeal, and if budget permits, consider watches that allow engraving so you can add a meaningful message or date.

3. Emergency Car Kit

Prepare your team for winter with emergency car kits, especially thoughtful for employees in colder climates. A good emergency car kit might include tire chains, a flashlight, thermal blankets, flares, and even a set of matches. This thoughtful and practical gift shows genuine care and concern for their safety.
Emergency Car Kit
Image from Tartan Vibes Clothing

2. Making Donations in Employee Names

If your team values social impact, consider donating to a cause in each employee’s name. This is especially meaningful for companies with a strong sense of community or commitment to social responsibility. You could choose charities that reflect employees’ interests, like environmental organizations or local food banks.

1. Holiday Bonuses vs. Physical Gifts

When considering what to give, it’s worth evaluating holiday bonuses versus physical gifts. Here’s a breakdown:

  •  Cash Bonuses: Cash offers flexibility and employees can use it for whatever they most need. Consider pairing a bonus with a personalized card expressing appreciation to make it more meaningful.

  •  Physical Gifts: Tangible gifts provide a lasting reminder of your thoughtfulness; if chosen well, they reflect a personal touch. Physical gifts can feel more memorable, especially if they’re practical or meaningful items employees might not typically buy for themselves.

Celebrate the Season with Meaningful Employee Gifts

Selecting thoughtful Christmas gifts for employees is the perfect way to show appreciation, boost morale, and strengthen team connections. Whether personalized items, practical accessories, or charitable donations, these gestures highlight how much you value their hard work. This holiday season, make your employees feel truly cherished with meaningful and personalized Christmas gifts for employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What gifts to give employees for Christmas?

  • Gift cards have always been the top choice of every corporate gifting ideas list.
  • A Care Package.
  • Books.
  • A Christmas Gift Hamper. 
  • A Chocolate Gift Box. 
  • Personalized Notebooks.

Should a manager give employees a Christmas gift?

Exchanging gifts at your org chart level is acceptable, but managers should only give gifts to their employees as a general rule. If you know your boss more personally and you've exchanged gifts before, you might give them a small token, but it isn't expected.

How much should I spend on Christmas gifts for employees?

These events are not typical and should hold great value to incentivize other employees to either produce more or look forward to retiring with your company. We recommend gifts that cost no less than $50 and do not exceed $100. A gift under $50 may not relay your appreciation.

How can I choose a gift that aligns with my company’s values?

Select gifts that reflect your company's culture, such as eco-friendly items for sustainable brands or branded apparel to build unity.

Teresa Finn Author

Teresa Finn

As someone with a deep passion for clan heritage, especially the intriguing world of tartans and their rich traditions, I'm here to be your companion on this exciting journey. Together, we'll delve into the depths of clan history, uncovering the stories behind these vibrant tartans and making every connection to your heritage more meaningful.

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