Every December, someone in the office ends up with the job of "sorting the team gifts". It usually ends with a box of chocolates on every desk, gone by lunchtime and forgotten by Friday.
There is a gentler way to say thank you. A small gift, chosen with care, with a few honest words, can stay on someone's desk, keyring or bedside table for years. Here are the questions we're asked most by managers, team leaders and wellbeing leads, with our honest answers.
What is a good Christmas gift for staff?
The best staff gifts are small, useful or keepable, and come with a personal message. People rarely remember what a gift cost. They remember that someone noticed what kind of year they had.
Three things make a team gift feel thoughtful rather than corporate:
- It suits the person, not just the job title. A mix of gifts across the team feels more personal than fifty of the same thing.
- It has words with it. A short, honest card ("Thank you for holding it together this year") matters more than the gift itself.
- It lasts longer than the office party. A keepsake, a piece of jewellery or a candle holder will still be there in March.
How much should I spend per person on staff Christmas gifts in the UK?
Most small teams spend between £5 and £25 per person. In the UK, HMRC's "trivial benefits" rule usually lets employers give a gift costing £50 or less per person without tax or National Insurance, as long as it isn't cash or a cash voucher, isn't a reward for performance, and isn't part of anyone's contract. Directors of small "close" companies have a yearly limit. It's always worth a quick check with your accountant.
The good news: a meaningful gift doesn't need to be expensive. Many of our most-loved team gifts are under £10.
What are good small gifts for the whole team (under £10)?
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I Will Always Bee There for You matchbox bee (£7). A tiny porcelain bee in a little box. Small enough for every desk, big enough to say "we've got you". -
Porcelain Bees (£6). A cheerful token for the colleague who keeps everyone smiling. -
Small rustic ceramic "Thank You" heart (£5.99). Simple, handmade and easy to hang on a tree or a bag. -
"Anything is Possible" tea light holder (£9.50). A warm one for the person starting something new next year.
What can I give the men in my team?
"He's impossible to buy for" is the line we hear most in December. What usually works is something he'll wear every day, without any fuss.
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Men's stainless steel Byzantine chain bracelet (£21). Strong, simple and made for everyday wear. -
Silver & gold cable cuff bangle (£26). A smart, unisex piece for someone who likes understated style. -
Mr Sparrow bamboo socks (£7.99). Soft, fun and always useful, especially for the dog lover in the team.
What should I give a colleague who's had a hard year?
Every team has someone who has been through something this year: an illness, a loss, a family worry, or simply a year that asked too much. For them, a gift isn't about Christmas cheer. It's about saying "we noticed, and we're glad you're here".
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"Braver Than You Believe" porcelain heart (£9.99). Quietly encouraging, without making a fuss. -
"Thank You for Being the Reason I Smile" tea light holder (£18). For the colleague who kept everyone else going.
For more ideas, read our guide to Christmas gifts for someone who's had a hard year.
What should I write in a staff Christmas card?
Keep it short, honest and personal. Using their name and one specific thing they did will mean more than a long message. A few lines you can borrow:
- "Thank you for holding it all together this year. We noticed."
- "This team is better because you're in it."
- "Thank you for always being the calm in the busy days."
- "Whatever this year asked of you, you showed up. Thank you."
- "Rest well this Christmas. You've earned it."
Every SHB Studio gift comes with a free message card for the occasion, and we write the names by hand.
When should I order Christmas gifts for my team?
For a whole team, we'd suggest getting in touch by late November. That gives us time to put together the right mix of gifts and cards for your people. For single gifts, UK delivery usually takes 2 to 4 working days, with free delivery on orders over £30, but early December is always safest before the Christmas post rush.
Can you help with a bigger team order?
Yes. If you're buying for a team, a hospital or care team, or a charity, we can help you choose a mix of gifts for 10 to 50 people, each with its own message card. Tell us a little about your team and your budget, and we'll suggest options.
Get in touch to plan your team gifts
Frequently asked questions
Are small gifts for colleagues appropriate?
Yes. Small, thoughtful gifts are often better received than expensive ones, because they feel personal rather than formal. A £6 keepsake with a kind card can mean more than a £30 hamper.
Should every team member get the same gift?
Not necessarily. Keeping a similar budget for everyone is fair, but choosing different gifts within that budget makes each person feel seen.
Is jewellery a suitable gift for a colleague?
Simple, everyday pieces like a stainless steel bracelet or a small charm are usually fine. Avoid anything romantic in style or wording, and keep the message about thanks and appreciation.
Whoever is on your list this Christmas, we hope they feel thanked, seen and a little bit lighter.
Bee kind. Bee you. 🐝
Shabnam, SHB Studio
