10 Fun Gift Ideas for Office Exchange: Creative, Affordable & Memorable Gifts for Your Next Office Swap

Once, during a holiday gift swap in my old office, I accidentally bought my manager a plant that turned out to be high-maintenance—and she had zero interest in watering anything. We still laugh about it every year. That little mishap taught me that small spaces and shared work environments need gifts that are fun, useful, and low-maintenance. In this post, I’m sharing my top 10 ideas for gifts that shine in an office exchange, many of which I’ve seen spark real joy. Small spaces—whether on desks or in break rooms—can still inspire big creative choices, and I’ll show you how to pick ones that won’t end up gathering dust.

1. Desk-Friendly Indoor Plants

A small succulent or air plant can brighten a workspace without overwhelming it. These are easy to care for and perfect for colleagues who may not have a green thumb. Just make sure to pick a plant that thrives in low light and doesn’t need much watering.

save pin

2. Personalized Coffee Mugs

Personalized mugs always bring a smile—especially if you can match the style to the person’s personality. Whether it’s a quirky quote or their initials, it adds a personal touch while staying within most gift exchange budgets. I once ordered a set for my team after finding inspiration in an office layout redesign that made everyone want matching desk accessories.

save pin

3. Scented Candles with a Subtle Fragrance

A softly scented candle can create a calming work atmosphere. Just avoid overpowering scents that could bother coworkers in an open-plan office. Opt for natural soy wax varieties for a cleaner burn.

save pin

4. Wireless Phone Chargers

These sleek gadgets are universally useful—no more tangled cords all over the desks. You can even find compact designs that fit perfectly on a clutter-free workspace. The only challenge? You might want to buy one for yourself too.

save pin

5. Mini Desk Games

Small puzzles, desk bowling, or magnetic sculpture sets can be great stress relievers during breaks. They add a playful element to the office without being distracting—though I’ve seen competitive mini bowling tournaments emerge from such gifts!

save pin

6. High-Quality Notebooks

You can never go wrong with a well-designed notebook. Choose ones with sturdy covers and smooth paper. My tip: pick neutral yet stylish designs that fit any desk décor. I often match them with inspiration I’ve gathered while creating a workspace flow plan that balances function and personality.

save pin

7. Gourmet Snacks or Teas

Specialty teas, artisan coffee, or gourmet chocolates are crowd-pleasers. They’re consumable (so no long-term storage problems) and invite shared moments in the break room. Just be mindful of allergies or dietary restrictions.

save pin

8. Compact Bluetooth Speakers

For those who enjoy music or podcasts, a small, high-quality speaker can be a thoughtful gift. Bonus points if it’s water-resistant—great for taking from desk to home. The downside? It’s so portable, they might forget to bring it back.

save pin

9. Desk Organizer Sets

A sleek organizer helps keep stationery, cables, and other essentials tidy. Look for designs that complement different office styles, from minimalistic to colorful. I’ve designed entire office corners inspired by a gift like this, which later tied into a shared workspace refresh project.

save pin

10. Reusable Water Bottles

Eco-friendly and practical, a good insulated bottle will keep drinks hot or cold for hours. Choose a stylish design for that extra spark—it’s a gift that can travel from the office to weekend hikes effortlessly.

save pin

FAQ

1. What is the best budget for an office gift exchange?

Most office gift exchanges have a budget between $10–$25. Check with your organizer before purchasing.

2. Are edible gifts a good idea?

Yes, as long as you’re mindful of allergies and preferences. Choose sealed, high-quality snacks.

3. How do I select a gender-neutral gift?

Look for practical and universal items, like notebooks, plants, or mugs, that suit any recipient.

4. Is it okay to gift something funny?

Yes—light humor works well, but avoid anything offensive or too personal.

5. Can I regift something for an exchange?

Only if it’s new, unused, and appropriate for the event. Presentation matters, so rewrap thoughtfully.

6. How do I make my gift stand out?

Personalization, unique designs, or pairing two small complementary items can make a gift memorable.

7. Are plants allowed in every office?

Not always—check office policy, especially regarding live plants, in case of allergies or maintenance issues.

8. What is the safest versatile gift choice?

A high-quality reusable water bottle or gourmet snack set is universally liked and fits most workplace settings. According to Forbes, consumable and practical items trend highest in workplace gifting satisfaction.