Gifts for coworkers

How much to spend

Most offices land on a modest amount, and under $25 is a safe place to be for a peer. Going well above that can make the receiver feel they owe you something. If you are buying for several people, give everyone the same kind of gift so nobody feels ranked.

Check whether your workplace has a rule on gifts or a team tradition. Some companies ask people to skip gifts, and then a card is the right call.

Office exchanges and white elephant

For a Secret Santa, stay inside the posted limit and pick something anyone could enjoy: a candle, a Burt's Bees Hand Repair gift set or a Gourmet nuts gift basket if the budget stretches. Skip anything that depends on taste, like scents or strong flavors, unless you know them.

White elephant swaps reward a laugh. The Lying flat duck night light and the Lying cat color-changing night lamp are silly enough to get stolen. Keep jokes kind and avoid anything that pokes at a person.

Gifts that are easy to share

When you do not know someone well, consumables are the safe choice. Coffee pods, snacks or a Pepperidge Farm birthday cake cookies pack for a birthday are quick to give and nothing to store. Add a short card with a real line about working together. Shopping for a boss or a teacher as well? Those lists have more ideas, and everything under $25 is in one place.