What makes the best Secret Santa gift?

Noteworthy

7 November 2022 by WTF Notebooks

Can you believe that Christmas is just around the corner? That means family time, the smell of cinnamon, and the taste of eggnog.

But let’s talk about the one thing that strikes fear into the hearts of many during the holidays: The office Secret Santa gift exchange. If you're feeling like a Grinch who wants to stuff their co-worker's stocking with coal, fear not, for we have some tips and tricks to help you sleigh your Secret Santa game.

Pour yourself a glass of something festive, pull up a chair and read these tips for finding the perfect Secret Santa gift.

Keep it budget-friendly

Let's be honest, nobody wants to break the bank for a Secret Santa gift.

Most Secret Santa gift exchanges come with strict guidelines on budget, which at least helps steer you in the right direction. Or, if you work with sadists, it might just be left open-ended, leaving you in limbo.

Whichever one applies to you, you don't want to break the bank, but you also don't want to be the cheapskate who buys a pack of gum. So, aim for the sweet spot of $15 to $25 to avoid looking like you're cutting corners or trying to show off your wealth. You'll be able to find plenty of great gifts without emptying your wallet.

Make sure the gift is practical(ish):

No one likes receiving novelty gifts that have no real use. On the other hand, practical gifts are a bit of a downer.

So, look for gifts that are thoughtful and fun, with a touch of practicality. Your gift doesn’t have to become an integral part of the recipient's life, but it’s nice knowing they’ll use it long after Christmas has passed.

Think playful but useful presents that won't end up collecting dust in the back of a closet.

Give a generic gift with a personal touch:

If you’re the type of person that prides themselves on finding the perfect, elaborate gift for friends and family, this is not that. Remember that Secret Santa gifts (in most cases) should be anonymous, so don’t immediately give the game away by choosing an in-joke present or one that references something from their 3rd birthday.

On the other hand, you also don’t want to go down the totally generic route where your gift is totally estranged.

Aim for the middle of the road, with a few details that give your gift a personal touch. You could buy something in their favorite color, or something that aligns with their sense of humor.

Don't go for Christmas-themed gifts:

Finally, despite it being a Christmas gift, it doesn’t (and really shouldn’t be) Christmas-themed.

Sure, it’s easy to find an ornament or festive knick knack that fits all the categories above this time of year, but it won’t be used much beyond December and, to be honest, is an easy cop-out. Instead, get something your recipient can enjoy year-round.

Top 6 ideas for a thoughtful Secret Santa gift

Now that we know what a Secret Santa gift should and shouldn't be, let's take a look at some ideas you can't go wrong with. Following the advice above, these are budget-friendly, practical, and generic presents with a personal touch.

Number 6:

A book that’s your recipient’s taste

If you're not sure what your recipient likes to read, don't judge a book by its cover! But if you do know their taste, then you're already one page ahead! Whether it's a thrilling mystery or a steamy romance, finding a book that your recipient will enjoy is a novel idea!

Number 5:

A plant that requires minimal maintenance

Plants are a great way to spruce up any space, but not everyone has a green thumb. That's why a plant that requires minimal maintenance is a safe choice. Whether it's a succulent or a cactus, they'll be able to keep it alive longer than a goldfish!

Number 4:

A candle with a scent that reminds you of your recipient

A candle is a classic gift, but if you really want to take it up a notch, choose a scent that reminds you of your co-worker. Whether it's the smell of fresh pine or the sweet scent of vanilla, they'll be burning through that candle faster than a wick in a windstorm!

Number 3:

A set of fancy soaps or bath bombs

Who says hygiene can't be luxurious? Treat your recipient to a set of fancy soaps or bath bombs and let them soak in the sweet smell of success (and lavender).

Number 2:

A cozy blanket for the winter

Baby, it's cold outside, but that doesn't mean your recipient has to suffer. Give the gift of warmth with a cozy blanket that's perfect for snuggling up on the couch and binge-watching Netflix.

Number 1:

A WTF Notebook that speaks your recipient’s language

For the person who has everything, get them a WTF Notebook. Nothing says "I see you and I appreciate your humor" quite like a custom-printed notebook with a witty saying that fits your co-worker’s personality. Whether they need to vent, take notes, or just write down their random thoughts, a WTF Notebook will speak their language.

Browse all WTF Notebooks

Now go and nail that gift exchange!

Hopefully these tips and ideas will help you to choose the perfect gift for your office gift exchange this Christmas season. To recap: stick to a reasonable budget, find something practical yet playful, keep it anonymous yet personal, and avoid the easy way out with a Christmas-themed gift.

And remember, it's the thought that counts, so put some thought into it and sleigh that Secret Santa game!