Secret Santa Shopping Spree
This past year was the first Secret Santa exchange for us at work. It was a great success for all but one. We did it “white elephant” style and that “one” lost the item that was very much wanted to another employee. But all said and done it was great and everyone came away wanting to do it again. In view of that I was asked by some for ideas of what to purchase this time around. As that I have a list going for the employees let me share it with you.
Remember that with a white elephant exchange you have to get the generic items as you do not know if male or female will be picking up your gift. Be sure and set the dollar amount limit and that everyone knows that to pick a gift you must bring one. The best places to look are in the pre-packaged gift aisles in the discount store. The dollar store also have a wide selection of items to pick from. The things to stay way from are the gift cards, food items, and of course the coffee mugs.
Some ideas for a Secret Santa – White elephant style.
Item #1 – The spice rack. A small rack with about 5 or 6 of the common spices used. This is really popular with everyone as that everyone can use it. During the holidays the novelty racks that include the spices can be pick up at any of the discount stores.
Item #2 – Flashlight. One that can be carried in the cars glove box is the ideal one. Remember to include the batteries as part of the gift. Slightly large ones for the home are also an option.
Item #3 – Umbrella. A collapsible one to fit in a car. This is one of the things you can not have to many of and never seem to have when you need. Black, red or green are good neutral colors. Be sure and wrap this one in a box, the shape is a give away as to what it is.
Item #4 – Small tool kit. Yes, even a woman would like to get one. Look for a kit that comes in a plastic case with both types of screwdrivers and a hammer. If the kit has a pair of pliers that is also good.
Item #5 – Blanket. The wrap blankets are very popular. A blanket with a design woven in is good also. Just a fleece throw is a good items. It does not’t matter where your are from a cover is needed sometime during the year.
Item #6 -Pedometer. This is a very different idea but one that everyone can use. From the one that sits at the desk all the time to the one that never sits down a pedometer is a great way of seeing just how far you do go in a day.
Just remember that the idea is to have fun, don’t let the thought of having to buy a present for someone you don’t know take that away.