White Elephant Gifts For The Office [UPDATED]

Note: This page contains affiliate links. 
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases when you click on the link, but you are not charged extra.

The holiday season at the office is a time to bring people together, celebrate achievements, and foster camaraderie among coworkers. One of the most anticipated events is the annual White Elephant gift exchange. A fun tradition that blends creativity with a hint of lighthearted competition, White Elephant gifting offers an opportunity for employees to let their personalities shine through their choice of presents. However, finding the perfect gift that strikes a balance between humor, practicality, and appeal can be a daunting task. The key to excelling at this office gift exchange is understanding how to choose a present that delights, surprises, and avoids the awkwardness of a poor choice.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the ideal White Elephant gift for the office-one that aligns with your workplace culture, suits the personalities of your colleagues, and avoids common missteps. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned participant, these tips will ensure you stand out for all the right reasons and contribute to a memorable holiday exchange.

10 White Elephant Gifts For The Office

1. Funny Desk Accessories

When you’re shopping for a white elephant gift for the office, funny desk accessories are always a safe bet. They combine humor with practicality, ensuring the recipient gets something they’ll actually use, but with a twist. Imagine a quirky pencil holder or a stress ball shaped like a unicorn-these things get people laughing and breaking the ice in a meeting. They’re great conversation starters, and even if someone doesn’t love the gift, they’ll appreciate the humor and functionality.

Top Ideas:

2. Office Decor

A piece of unique office decor can be a fantastic white elephant gift, especially for someone who loves adding personal touches to their workspace. From quirky framed art prints to desktop planters, office decor items help bring a touch of personality to a dull cubicle or work-from-home setup. These gifts range from the stylish to the whimsical, and it’s always fun to see how they brighten up someone’s day-whether it’s a funny motivational poster or a tiny desk lamp that doubles as a mood setter.

Top Ideas:

3. Mugs and Drinkware

Mugs are a classic white elephant gift because they’re practical, personal, and usually come with an amusing twist. Whether it’s a mug with a funny quote, an unusual design, or something personalized, it’s the kind of gift that everyone can find a use for. Plus, people can get really creative with these. Imagine walking into the office with a mug that changes colors when hot liquid is poured in-it’s guaranteed to spark some fun reactions.

Top Ideas:

4. Gadgets and Tech Accessories

In the world of office gifts, gadgets and tech accessories are always a hit. They’re practical and fun, and even the most minimalistic of tech lovers will find something to appreciate. Think phone stands, portable chargers, or a quirky USB gadget that serves no other purpose than to make you smile. These items are perfect for the person who loves gadgets but might not want to splurge on them themselves, making them an excellent choice for a white elephant exchange.

Top Ideas:

5. Games and Puzzles

Games and puzzles bring a sense of fun and challenge to any office environment. Whether it’s a small desktop game or a quirky puzzle that makes you think outside the box, these gifts add a playful vibe to any workday. They’re perfect for teams that need a quick break from the grind or for anyone looking to add a bit of entertainment to their desk. Plus, office games can serve as an icebreaker, encouraging team bonding during lunch breaks or downtime.

Top Ideas:

6. Stress Relief Products

Let’s face it, the office can be stressful at times. That’s where stress relief products come into play! From fidget spinners to stress balls, these items are designed to help alleviate tension while keeping your hands busy. They’re great for someone who needs a little mental break during a hectic day. And the best part? They can be used discreetly at the desk, offering some calm amidst the chaos without drawing too much attention.

Top Ideas:

7. Food and Snacks

Everyone loves snacks! This category works well as a white elephant gift because food is something that almost everyone enjoys. Whether it’s a quirky snack box, gourmet popcorn, or a collection of quirky flavored hot sauces, you’re giving the gift of enjoyment. Plus, office workers always appreciate having a little something to munch on when the mid-afternoon hunger strikes. It’s an easy win, and it’s a gift that can be shared with others in the office.

Top Ideas:

8. Novelty Clothing

Who doesn’t love a bit of humor in their wardrobe? Novelty clothing is a lighthearted option for a white elephant gift, especially if you’re looking to make a statement. Think of socks with funny patterns, a quirky office-themed T-shirt, or even a pair of slippers that make people laugh. These gifts are perfect for breaking the ice and making everyone in the office smile-plus, they’re functional, so even if the recipient doesn’t love the joke, they can still get some use out of the item.

Top Ideas:

9. DIY Kits and Craft Sets

For the creatively inclined, DIY kits and craft sets make for fantastic white elephant gifts. These kits come with everything needed to create something fun, whether it’s a paint-by-numbers canvas, a build-your-own birdhouse, or a DIY candle-making kit. They’re perfect for those who want to add a bit of creativity to their downtime. It’s an ideal gift for anyone who enjoys working with their hands and making something unique, even if it’s just for fun.

Top Ideas:

10. Office Plants

Office plants are a refreshing and thoughtful white elephant gift, especially for someone who enjoys adding a bit of nature to their workspace. Succulents, air plants, or small potted plants can bring a calming atmosphere to a desk, and they’re low-maintenance, making them perfect for busy office workers. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, which adds an extra bonus. Everyone enjoys having a little bit of greenery to liven up their space, and these plants can also serve as a relaxing focal point during stressful days.

Top Ideas:

How To Choose White Elephant Gifts For The Office

Choosing a White Elephant gift requires a thoughtful approach. Unlike typical gift exchanges, where you may have a specific person in mind, the unpredictability of White Elephant adds a unique layer of challenge. The goal is to select a gift that is universally appealing, yet intriguing enough to spark laughter or conversation. To strike this balance, there are several factors to consider when selecting the right gift for your office’s White Elephant exchange.

Know the Budget: Most office White Elephant exchanges set a price limit, and sticking to that budget is essential. While it may be tempting to overspend in an effort to impress, a gift that exceeds the budget could be seen as inconsiderate or unnecessarily extravagant, creating discomfort among your colleagues. On the other hand, a gift that is too cheap can be perceived as thoughtless or lacking effort. Aim for a gift that falls comfortably within the agreed-upon price range, ideally in the middle of the spectrum.
Consider the Office Environment: Every workplace has its own unique culture and personality, which should heavily influence your choice of gift. Some offices have a playful and relaxed atmosphere, where humorous and quirky gifts are likely to be well-received. Other environments may be more formal or conservative, making comical gifts or novelty items less appropriate. It’s essential to gauge the tone of your office before settling on a gift. A present that might be hilarious in one office could fall flat in another.
Appeal to a Broad Audience: Since the recipient of your gift is likely to be someone you don’t know very well, it’s important to choose something that has broad appeal. Gifts that are too niche or specific to a particular hobby or interest are less likely to generate excitement. Instead, consider items that are universally useful, humorous, or at least universally neutral. For instance, a quirky mug, a fun desk toy, or an aromatic candle could be appealing to most people. A gift that blends fun with functionality is often the safest bet.
Think About the Element of Surprise: White Elephant gifts are meant to be surprising, so don’t be afraid to lean into the unexpected. The best gifts often elicit gasps of laughter or “wow” moments. A gift that’s totally out of left field-whether it’s an absurd item that no one knew they needed or a creative take on a mundane object-can elevate the energy of the exchange. However, the surprise element should be appropriate for the office setting and not cross the line into anything too controversial or inappropriate.

Understanding The Needs Of Your Recipient

While the nature of a White Elephant gift exchange means you won’t know exactly who will end up with your gift, it’s important to keep the recipient in mind when choosing your present. Think about general preferences or qualities that most people in your office share. In this case, your goal isn’t to buy a highly personalized gift, but rather to ensure it will be appreciated by the majority of participants.

Comfort and Utility: Everyone uses office supplies, but the common ones-pens, paper clips, or staplers-are too expected. Try to think about things that would enhance an office worker’s daily experience in a fun, non-essential way. A mini desk vacuum, an ergonomic mouse pad, or a unique phone holder can all serve as useful but not overly practical gifts. Small items that add comfort, like cozy socks, a soothing hand cream, or even an office plant, might be a welcome break from the usual office monotony.
General Interests: Many offices feature a diverse group of people with varied hobbies and preferences. However, a safe bet is to choose gifts that appeal to general interests like food, beverages, or entertainment. A gift set of gourmet chocolates, a coffee sampler, or a quirky desk calendar can cater to wide-ranging tastes. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a themed gift, such as a cozy ’winter vibes’ basket filled with hot cocoa mixes, candles, and a blanket.
Humor and Light-Hearted Fun: Humor plays a key role in White Elephant exchanges, so consider gifts that are funny but not overly controversial. A silly gag gift, like a desk toy that makes noises or a quirky mug with a clever message, can encourage laughter without making anyone feel uncomfortable. Keep the tone of the gift light and avoid anything that could be seen as offensive or divisive.

Avoid These Pitfalls When Choosing Gifts

While the point of White Elephant gifting is to have fun, there are some common missteps you should try to avoid. A poorly chosen gift can result in awkwardness, discomfort, or even worse, a lack of interest altogether. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Inappropriate Gifts: Humor can be subjective, and what some people find funny, others might find offensive or inappropriate. Avoid gifts with overly controversial themes, such as anything related to politics, religion, or sensitive topics. Even if you think it’s hilarious, what seems like harmless fun to you might make someone uncomfortable. Keep the tone lighthearted and neutral.
Too Practical: While a useful gift is always appreciated, practicality can sometimes fall flat in a White Elephant exchange. Avoid giving items that are too mundane or work-related, such as pens or paper clips. White Elephant gifts should be fun and unexpected, not just items that could be easily found in an office supply drawer.
Overly Personal Items: White Elephant gifts are meant to be generic enough for anyone to enjoy. Avoid gifts that are too personal or specific to a person’s individual preferences, like clothing, perfumes, or jewelry. These types of gifts can be awkward if the recipient doesn’t have the same tastes.
Inadequate Wrapping: Presentation matters. A beautiful gift wrapping or box can elevate even the simplest gift. On the other hand, poorly wrapped gifts can seem like they were picked last-minute, diminishing the overall impact of your present. Take some time to wrap your gift creatively to build anticipation and make the exchange more exciting.

How To Locate The Perfect Present

Now that you have a sense of what makes for a great White Elephant gift, it’s time to actually find one. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to explore for the ideal present.

Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and Uncommon Goods are treasure troves for unique, quirky gifts. You can find everything from funny mugs to interesting gadgets and accessories that are sure to spark conversation. Amazon, in particular, has a vast selection of affordable yet creative options.
Local Stores: Don’t overlook local retailers, especially small boutiques or specialty shops. These stores often carry unique and one-of-a-kind gifts that could be perfect for a White Elephant exchange. Many of these shops even curate themed sections for seasonal or novelty gifts, making it easier to find something special.
Dollar Stores or Discount Stores: If you’re on a budget, dollar stores and discount retailers can be surprising sources of creative gift ideas. With a little ingenuity, you can assemble a thoughtful, amusing gift set or find quirky individual items for a memorable exchange.
DIY Gifts: If you’re crafty or looking to add a personal touch, consider creating a DIY gift. A handmade item such as a custom ornament, a jar of homemade cookies, or a hand-poured candle adds a personal flair that could be a hit during the exchange. Just ensure it’s something that will have wide appeal, even if it’s homemade.

White Elephant Gifts For The Office [UPDATED]