Holiday Gifts for Leadership Teams That Go Beyond the Basics
It’s about that time! As promised, we’ve scoured the internet for unique gift ideas for your leadership team. Now that Thanksgiving has passed, you’ve only got a few weeks left (three to be exact!) to check off your holiday gifting list. Although, if you ask us, showing appreciation to your leadership team isn’t just seasonal.
As you browse through this list, know that any of these items could easily be given to other leaders in your life. Do you have a special elder at church you’d like to bless with something they wouldn’t normally buy for themselves? What about a school administrator or the executive director of a nonprofit you support throughout the year? Is there a member of your board who’s going through a tough time and could use a little extra help? This list doesn’t have to apply solely to your senior leadership team - get creative and think about all the leaders you interact with.
This year, we’re going for unique, practical, techy, and downright fun - maybe even a few things you’ve never heard of! There are countless other lists featuring leadership books and fancy office trinkets, so you won’t find those here. Hopefully, this list will inspire you to make this holiday season memorable for your team while stretching your generosity muscles.
Gift Ideas
Ember Mug or Thermos
We love the Ember mug! It keeps your coffee as hot as you’d like, and you can use the app to control the temperature.
Make a Charitable Donation on Behalf of Your Team
This one is unique and less tangible than a packaged gift. But if there’s an organization your team supports, consider making a generous donation in their honor and pairing it with a nice dinner out.
Partner Product
This one is also unique: think about the organizations you support or serve and find a way to partner with them on your year-end gifts. Do they have swag you could purchase? Could you co-brand an item for your team? Get creative and think outside the box with this one.
JBL Portable Speaker
This compact Bluetooth speaker is one of those items you don’t realize you need until you have one. Pair it with a thoughtful card and perhaps an Audible subscription for a practical yet personal gift.
Spoonful of Comfort
My husband and I will never forget our first experience receiving a Spoonful of Comfort delivery. We’d just had our third baby in the dead of winter, and preparing dinner was the last thing on our minds. As an early Christmas gift, my husband’s boss had this delivered to us, and it meant the world. Our box came with soup for the whole family, rolls, a ladle, and cookies for dessert.
L.L. Bean Monogrammed Plush Blanket
Everyone loves a nice blanket, and adding a monogram is a thoughtful touch. Try to avoid adding your company logo - no one wants a blanket that constantly reminds them of work, especially if they ever leave the company.
Sugarwish Candy & Treats
This one is pretty fun! You send your recipient the gift box (via email), and they can select exactly what they want. Sugarwish then ships the treat box directly to them. For example, you could select the Holiday Treat Box with four treats. Your recipient chooses from six treat categories - like cookies, popcorn, or snacks - and then selects their exact treats from there.
Hatch Idea Notebook + Nice Pen
A fresh notebook paired with a professional pen is always a welcome gift. As we roll into a new year, everyone could use a place to jot down new dreams and ideas.
Goldbelly Gift Card
Similar to Sugarwish, Goldbelly partners with restaurants across the country. If you have a remote team, this is an excellent option! Recipients can log on and choose their meal. Want to try Giordano’s Chicago Deep Dish Pizza? Goldbelly’s got you covered!
Onyx or Local Coffee
High-quality coffee like Onyx or something from a local roaster is always a win. Pair a bag of coffee with a fun mug or the Ember mug above for a thoughtful combination. (Remember, you don’t need to use a company mug! Try to avoid making your gift all about you.)
Goodr Sunglasses
This might be my favorite, it’s just so practical. Who doesn’t need a new pair of sunglasses? Goodr offers stylish, affordable, nonslip options (starting at $20) in various colors.
Professional Development Subscription
For the lifelong learner on your team, consider a subscription to MasterClass or Toastmasters. This gift encourages personal growth and demonstrates your support for their development.
Leadership gifts are more than just a gesture - they’re a meaningful way to show appreciation for the people who guide, inspire, and support your organization. Whether you go practical, unique, or heartfelt, the thought you put into these gifts will leave a lasting impression. Here’s to spreading generosity this season and making your team feel valued beyond a thank you card. You’ve got this!
