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It’s that time of year when employees from all around the globe are discreetly picking names for the upcoming Secret Santa exchange.  This annual fun event is a tradition at most companies as it’s a good way to get into the Christmas spirit, bond with co-workers, eat lots of treats, have a few laughs and see what your mystery Santa has bought you.

There was a time when I boycotted this fun event – not because I’m a scourge or my taste was so expensive that I would never be satisfied with a gift under $20.  I avoided it because I just got tired of receiving gifts that were picked out of “last minute desperation”.   I would get gifts such as Christmas mugs filled with chocolate or some Christmas wall hanger that looked like it was pulled from the bottom of an old storage bin – cleverly disguised behind pretty paper and a bow.  This is what I call the “no effort – no imagination syndrome”.   I’m sure a lot of you who are reading this are laughing because you too experienced the “wait until last minute and pick whatever I could find at a 24 hour convenience store” gift.

You gotta do a little digging

No matter whose name I pick – I would make an effort to find out my co-worker’s likes and dislikes.  Ask fellow coworkers if they knew anything about the person so it would help narrow my search for a nice gift.  I check to see how she decorated her office or desk and take the time to ask her about her interests without being obvious that I was her Santa.   I’d stick to the rules and stay within the dollar limit of $15 to $20.  In the end, I use my imagination to pick gifts that people liked.

I know it’s not always easy to pick a gift for someone you hardly know but if you’re going to participate in this event, then I suggest you put in the effort, do your homework and use your imagination.  There are many simple and affordable ideas waiting to be explored.

Santa’s Box of Surprises – Under $20.00

You can find amazing little things at your local Dollar Store or Bargain Shop.  First pick out a good size Christmas gift box for less than $2.50, which is perfect because it can be reused.  By the time you finish walking through the store you will find plenty of things to fill the box with.  Examples:

Picture frame
Candles and candleholders/plate
Small photo album
Small decorative flower vase
Journal (for those who like to write)
Address book
Christmas Potpourri
Recycled novels/how to books
Lotions, soaps and bath products
Fuzzy socks/slipper socks
One size fits all gloves
Lip Gloss
Make-up sponges/Eye Make-up Remover Pads
Christmas chocolate

By putting a little thought and imagination into picking a gift – you’ll not only put smile on a co-workers face but it will certainly leave them with a lasting impression.