Skip the “Meh”-mentos: A Guide to Employee Appreciation Day Gifting
Mark your calendars: Employee Appreciation Day is Friday, March 7th—a perfect time to show your team how much you value their hard work. And here’s the deal: a box of generic office supplies isn’t going to cut it. Thoughtful, high-quality branded gifts say, “We care about you and your contribution,” and leave your employees feeling proud to represent your company.
Did you know? 73% of employees say receiving company-branded items boosts their sense of pride and belonging. So, let’s talk about gifts they’ll actually love. And spoiler alert: thoughtful doesn’t have to mean stressful. Grapevine Designs specializes in creating memorable, premium gifting experiences that do all the heavy lifting for you.
The Gift Categories That Never Miss
1. Premium Apparel for Work AND Play
Branded apparel isn’t just swag; it’s wearable loyalty. Outerwear—like stylish jackets or cozy sweatshirts—is particularly coveted. Employees want items they’ll proudly rock outside the office. And let’s face it, wearables make up 29% of the promotional product market for a reason. High-quality, recognizable brands (think North Face or Patagonia) make these gifts extra special. Along with outerwear, 2024 saw major trends in athleisure like premium golf wear and comfortable outfits that bridge the gap between work-from-home and in-office.
2. Tech Gadgets They’ll Treasure
Technology gifts are always a hit because they’re practical, versatile, and let’s admit it, cool. From branded wireless chargers to sleek headphones, tech keeps your team connected and powered up at work and home. Employees love the newest and shiniest gadgets, which makes this category a safe (and exciting) bet.
3. Food Gifts: A Tasteful Gesture
Treat your team to sweet and savory delights! Gourmet chocolates, popcorn tins, or artisan cheese boards are gifts they’ll savor (literally). Bonus points for pairing food with something long-lasting—like branded kitchen tools or reusable popcorn accessories for experiences waiting to happen. Who doesn’t love a treat they can share with friends and family? Food gifts can also be paired with gift cards to add a personalized aspect to a monetary gift (a coffee treat with a new mug? Yes please.)
4. Wellness Gifts: Detox Delights
Wellness gifts show you care about your employees’ well-being, on and off the clock. Think spa kits, yoga mats, or fitness gear that encourages them to unplug from work and invest in self-care. A stress-free employee is a happy employee. They’ll feel more Zen—and grateful for a company that prioritizes their health.
5. Experiential Gifts: Unwrap Fun
Pair your promotional products with an experience! A branded wine opener becomes a hit when sent with a wine tasting kit. Branded board games or family-friendly activity sets create moments that last long after Employee Appreciation Day is over. Because memories > material things.
6. Personalized Gifts: Make It Extra Special
Adding a personal touch—like their name or a handwritten note—takes gifting to the next level. Employees will treasure gifts that feel uniquely theirs. Nothing beats the feeling of being truly seen and appreciated, and personalized items make your gratitude more impactful. They also show that you’ve invested time in understanding your employees’ wants and make the gifting gesture feel more sincere.
Why Your Thoughtfulness Matters
Employee gifts aren’t just about slapping your logo on a random item. They’re an opportunity to strengthen your team camaraderie and express genuine gratitude. Thoughtful gifts remind your team that they’re more than just employees—they’re valued members of the organization.
Not sure where to start? Grapevine Designs is here to help you create unique, meaningful solutions that resonate with your recipients. From sourcing premium gifts to designing eye-catching packaging, we’ve got you covered—every step of the way.
Contact us today. We’ll take it from here.
