Co-worker gifts

This category is hard. Depending on the size of your work environment -- this could be a huge commitment. I think it's great to come up with a theme that you can duplicate -- there is no shame in giving the same trinket to multiple co-workers -- and you can mix it up within the theme (this will make more sense as you keep reading). One word of advice: if you have a close relationship with one or two of your co-workers, and you want to do something more for them than for others in your office, do it 'offline' (AKA: away from the office).

This list may feel random... but it's long to give you plenty of options.








Stuff connected to work

• How about a cool calendar? This is where theme could be fun... calendar for each person, but each different to match the personality.
• Fun mouse pad. Get something pre-made or consider customizing. Many local stores offer this option.
• Hot new business book on a subject they really enjoy or use in their job (here's to hoping it fits both categories!!).
• Gift cards for local coffee establishments or lunch spots.

Gifts for home

• A fun bottle of wine. If you are feeling especially creative, some companies allow you to customize wine labels.
  
• Hand-crafted soap or hand cream. Can't go wrong with a holiday scent.
• Lovely jar of jam (see this in hostess gifts, too). I love getting jams, mustards and other goodies I don't usually splurge on for myself. Extra points if they are locally made.
• Homemade goodies in beautiful (re-usable) containers. I make a mean batch of chocolate/craisin/peanut candy. Of course, I make an extra batch for my own house.
• A magazine subscription. I've noticed lots of bo-go ("buy one-get one") deals this year.
• A handcrafted ornament. Again on that theme idea. (You can get multiples of a type, but all can be slightly different.)

One final idea... maybe forgo a gift altogether and make a donation to a local charity, school or school sports team, local arts organization or park in the name of your department.

Enjoy this special month.

-reenie