If gift giving is your love language, then ’tis the season. But finding the right workplace gift can be tricky. You want something thoughtful but not overly personal, fun but not too frivolous and something a little more original than a corporate logo’d water bottle (although these are still awesome). Here are a few ideas that work year-round and stand out from the usual mug-and-gift-card ensemble (although these are awesome, too).
Local Food Finds
Curate a box of local snacks, cookies, chocolates, coffee beans or tea blends from nearby makers. It’s a delicious gift that supports small businesses and we have an abundance of local producers and retailers in the city that can answer this call. Make it a theme or a variation of delectables. The possibilities are endless.
Desk-Friendly Greens
Plants have never been cooler and are an obsession for many people nowadays. A hardy succulent, low-maintenance desk plant or even a little hydroponic herb kit can brighten up a workspace and is a gift that keeps on living and giving. Even better if you choose a stylish planter.
Small-Experience Passes
Instead of objects, give a memory. Gifts like tickets to a comedy show, cooking class or a wine tasting are all activities that can help break up someone’s January. We don’t need to be tourists to enjoy the Malahat Skywalk or The Butchart Gardens, both of which offer gift passes and are experiences that bring excitement long after the unwrapping.
Subscription Surprises
Niche subscriptions can be both practical and fun. Magazine subscriptions (say to Douglas, YAM or Spruce…wink, wink) or monthly or quarterly deliveries of goodies like craft beer, specialty teas, snacks from around the world, books or games can deliver repeat moments of amusement and discovery without taking up office space. Jell-O of the Month? Yes, please.
Photo: Getty Images
