Need Christmas Workplace Gift Suggestions

SXMGirl · ‎07-07-2010

In the past, this has never been a problem. However, with today's climate, I am not sure about the gifts that DH needs to give to the three women who work in the office.

A little history: DH's company office was closed and his home office now is in another state. I have no idea how old the women are in the office, but they are a big help to him as he does a lot of traveling.

It has been quite a while since he has had a secretary, even though technically they do not work for him. When there was a local staff, I always got the office staff Philosophy shower gels and they loved them. I did ask him if that would still be okay considering all of the allegations that we are reading about. He assured me that this would not be a problem and that everyone knew that I bought the presents. I usually go with the "in doubt--don't" philosophy.

I do not want to break the bank. I saw some Philosophy shower sets that would set me back about $60. I also thought of the Lay N Go sets, but they are pricier, but definitely non-offensive.

Any suggestions (absolutely not doing gift cards) would be appreciated. Thanks!

The next time that I hear salt and ice together, it better be in a margarita!

2blonde · ‎03-10-2010

I think the Philosophy gift idea is a good one. After all, everyone needs to bathe or shower, and if anyone would take offense at receiving that type of gift from a man........well, then this world is more messed up than I thought. It's not like he's asking to be there when they use it!

Laura loves cats!

momoftwo2007 · ‎04-19-2015

I think the shower gel sets are a little bit more intimate. I bought some shower gel sets for my husband to give out to his co-workers last year, and he was not comfortable about doing that. So, I buy food gifts instead now.

I would suggest that you go with food gifts. Nice gift baskets of food. I was at Homegoods a few days ago, and they have so many beautiful food gift sets-- chocolate, coffee, tea...etc. You can always attach a gift receipt if they don't like it, they can take it back.

Lostandscared · ‎02-05-2011

Cute coffee mugs with a small git card inside, like a 10.00 starbucks, or target gift card. you can also fill with small candies. Another idea is etsy, they have cute sterling silver necklaces that are pretty cheap. Yeah, now days you have to watch out, people are so sensitive !

shell garden · ‎04-28-2015

Well, since you don't know these women very well, how do you know they will even like Philosophy? I know you said you did not want to do gift cards, but it is a little tricky to give gifts when you don't really know someone.

If your limit is around $60....I think I would get them a $15-20 gift card to a local eating place. That way, they can order lunch for a couple of days. And, preferably at a restuarant that has a variety on the menu. Not chocolates, etc....because they may be on a diet, or don't indulge in some things. Just a suggestion but whatever you give, I think they would be appreciative of the thought.

deepwaterdotter · ‎03-09-2010

I remember getting a gift box with a selection of teas and sweets from my male supervisor. I thought it to be tasty and appropriate. And it was nice that he took the time to personalize the gift to our individual tastes i.e. diabetic, gluten-free, tea or coffee drinker.

missy1 · ‎03-10-2010

Some people can't have fragrance, or don't care for the brand.

I do agree with the poster that beauty products are more intimate.

I know you don't want to go with a gift card. I would play it safe, and get them.

Laura14 · ‎06-09-2014

A gift I never forgot from one of my male coworkers which I thought was a great idea was the small chocolate sample boxes like Whitman's.

He gave one to the whole office men and women with just a bow around each box. It was perfect and cheap.

Another coworker did a different ornament for each co-worker. Also a great relatively cheap gift I thought for the holidays.

Mominohio · ‎08-08-2010

I think this is so hard today, like you have stated, then add to the fact that this isn't the usual bunch of ladies that you were used to buying for, and you are in a bit of a quandary.

I agree that gift cards are impersonal, and you will likely not get them from some place that everyone is happy with (so many people think a Starbucks gift card is the universal gift, and I would never use one).

Mugs, who need another mug? NO ONE!

Sweets, everyone today seems to have dietary restrictions/preferences.

And Philosophy might not be quite right either, seen as too personal for this newer group of ladies even though it was good in the past, because your husband had a much longer relationship with them.

I love Loccitane products, and they have really great hand lotions. The big tube is about $29, they have a really great unscented choice, and it is the best hand cream I've ever used.

So it is a bit personal, works great, no fragrance issues to choose if you don't want to, but shouldn't be seen as questionable or inappropriate.

chrystaltree · ‎05-10-2010

In today's climate????? I assume he hasn't been giving them lingerie...lol It's still a matter of common sense and good taste; nothing about that has changed and nothing will change. Philopsphy sounds like good idea to me although I never give office staff scented products and bath products because women are very particular about what scents they like and what products they use. I don't want to risk giving them something that they will end up re-gifting or just never using.