Recognizing employees with thoughtful gifts isn’t just a “nice to have” these days—it’s a game-changer for your workplace. Did you know that 81% of employees feel more motivated to give their best effort when their boss takes the time to show appreciation? And here’s the kicker: companies with effective recognition programs see a 31% drop in voluntary turnover. That’s not just a statistic—it’s proof that showing your team you care pays off in loyalty and performance.
The tricky part? Finding gifts that don’t feel like an afterthought. Ditch the boring and forgettable and go for something with meaning. Personalized presents, experience-based gifts, and creative ideas strike a chord in ways that generic items just can’t.
To make your job easier, we’ve curated 41 exciting employee appreciation ideas that blend practicality with creativity. These are perfect for celebrating milestones, recognizing achievements, or simply saying "thank you" in style. Dive in and discover ways to make your team feel valued and inspired.
For Remote Workers
Out of sight doesn’t mean out of mind! Remote employees may not get the buzz of office banter or those spontaneous “watercooler moments,” but that makes showing your appreciation even more meaningful. To keep them connected, motivated, and feeling like an essential part of the team, it’s all about thoughtful touches that bridge the gap.
Whether it’s a personalized gift that makes their home office feel inspiring or a virtual experience that sparks camaraderie from afar, these ideas are designed to make remote workers feel valued and included. Show them that even miles apart, they’re at the heart of your company’s success.
1. Darden Restaurants Gift Card
Treat your team to a delicious dining experience with a Darden Restaurants Gift Card. Perfect for a variety of tastes, it can be used at popular spots like Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and more. Pair it with a handwritten note for a thoughtful touch that turns any meal into a memorable experience.
2. Virtual Experiences: Connect Anywhere, Anytime
Bring people together, no matter where they are, with a curated collection of virtual experiences. From craft cocktail-making classes to escape rooms and creative workshops, these activities are designed to engage, entertain, and inspire teams from the comfort of their own spaces. Whether it’s for team-building, client appreciation, or a fun break from the routine, virtual experiences offer something for everyone to enjoy.
3. Creative Experiences for Remote Workers
Give remote workers a fresh way to unwind and recharge with creative experiences. From pottery classes to painting workshops, these hands-on activities are perfect for stepping away from the screen and trying something new. A great way to spark creativity, relieve stress, and bring a little inspiration to their day.
4. Beauty & Wellness Experiences
Encourage balance and relaxation with curated beauty and wellness experiences. From virtual yoga and meditation sessions to spa treatments and skincare workshops, these offerings are designed to promote self-care and rejuvenation. Pair the experience with a thoughtful self-care package for an extra special touch.
5. Let-Them-Choose Experience Collections
Offer curated experience collections tailored to their location or price point, allowing them to select an activity that excites them. This ensures every recipient feels the gift is personal and meaningful.
6. Digital Wellness Tools
Subscriptions to apps like Calm or Headspace help promote relaxation and reduce stress. Pair this with a journal to encourage mindfulness and reflection.
7. Virtual Craft Cocktail-Making Class
Elevate happy hour with a virtual cocktail-making class! This experience includes a curated cocktail kit delivered to participants, complete with all the essentials to craft delicious drinks. It's a fun, interactive way to bring teams together, even from a distance.
8. E-Readers Preloaded with Books
Gift them an e-reader preloaded with books tailored to their interests—think thrillers, business reads, or wellness guides. Add a digital gift card so they can expand their library at their leisure.
9. Entertainment & Culture Experiences
Switch things up with Entertainment & Culture experiences that bring a little excitement to their day. Think theater performances, immersive exhibitions, and other moments worth talking about. It’s a fresh way to inspire creativity and make any day feel a little more special.
10. Personalized Snack Boxes
Surprise remote workers with a curated snack box filled with their favorite treats. From gourmet popcorn to artisanal chocolates and savory delights, this gift brings a burst of joy to their workday. Include a personalized note or a custom box design to make it extra special.
For In-Office Workers
Celebrate the heartbeat of your office! For those who show up every day, bring their A-game, and keep the workplace buzzing, thoughtful gifts and experiences can make all the difference. Whether it’s adding a little joy to their routine or recognizing their dedication, these ideas are designed to brighten their day and show just how much they’re valued.
11. After-Work Tickets to a Local Sports Event
Make an ordinary weeknight extraordinary by gifting employees tickets to a local sports game like the Miami Marlins. Encourage them to bring a guest of their choice, whether it’s a partner, friend, or family member, for a fun evening outside the office. To make it even more memorable, include a gift card for concessions or team merchandise so they can fully enjoy the experience.
12. Cheese and Charcuterie Board Set
Sophisticated and delicious, this gift is perfect for employees who enjoy entertaining or gourmet treats.
13. Bring Yoga or Fitness to the Office
Instead of sending employees to a studio, bring the wellness experience directly to them! Host weekly yoga or fitness sessions right in the office, turning a conference room or open space into a relaxing retreat. Employees can enjoy the convenience of decompressing during their workday, while promoting a culture of health and mindfulness.
14. Employee of the Week/Month Program
Shine a spotlight on your stars with a rotating recognition program that celebrates top performers. Pair the honor with perks like a prime parking spot, a stylish desk upgrade, or even a catered lunch. Feature the winner on a beautifully designed recognition wall to inspire a culture of appreciation throughout the office.
Looking for a standout reward? Explore our multi-choice experience vouchers to let recipients pick something they’ll love. A little recognition goes a long way!
15. Local Specialty Food Sampler
Bring the best of the city into the office with a sampler box of locally crafted treats. From artisanal chocolates to small-batch coffee blends, these gifts celebrate the flavors of your community.
16. Dough Bowl Soy Candle Kit
The Dough Bowl Soy Candle Kit offers a hands-on way to relax and get creative. Employees can craft their own candles in a rustic dough bowl, using calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus. It’s a great individual activity or a chance to connect—whether they make them together or share their creations afterward.
17. Golf Lesson or Driving Range Pass
For the golf enthusiasts (or aspiring ones), lessons or a driving range pass is a hole-in-one gift. Take it up a notch by organizing an office-wide mini-golf outing or a casual competition at the local range. It’s a unique way to unwind and build camaraderie outside of work.
18. Michelin-Star Dining Experiences
For employees in major cities, a Michelin-star dining experience is the ultimate way to say “thank you” in style. Treat them to an unforgettable meal at some of the world’s top restaurants, where every dish is a masterpiece. This premium gift is perfect for rewarding hard work, celebrating milestones, or simply showing appreciation in a big way.
19. Company Retreats
Turn the office into a destination employees actually look forward to by planning retreats that blend productivity with fun. Think creative brainstorming sessions followed by outdoor adventures like hiking, Go Ape Adventures or wine tasting.
20. Sommelier-Led Wine Tasting in the Office
Treat your team to an elevated after-work experience with a sommelier-led wine tasting event in the office. Transform your workspace into a sophisticated wine bar, complete with curated pairings and expert insights into different varietals.
For Hybrid Workers
Hybrid workers are the ultimate multitaskers, balancing the best of both worlds between home and the office. Their workdays are varied, so your appreciation gifts should be just as versatile and dynamic. Whether they’re working remotely, commuting, or collaborating in the office, these thoughtful ideas will help you show your gratitude while making their day-to-day lives more enjoyable and rewarding.
21. Activity Budget for Colleagues
Encourage camaraderie and team bonding with a monthly activity budget that employees can use with a colleague of their choice. Whether it’s catching a blockbuster movie at AMC Theatres® , exploring a museum, or attending a pottery class, this gift gives employees the freedom to choose something they’ll genuinely enjoy while fostering connections with their teammates. Add a list of local suggestions to make it even easier for them to plan their next outing.
22. Local Food Tour
Celebrate your city’s culinary scene by gifting employees a guided food tour of the best local eateries. From trendy taco spots to hidden dessert gems, this experience lets employees indulge their inner foodie while discovering more about their community. Encourage them to bring a friend or coworker along to make it even more fun.
23. Virtual Cooking or Baking Competitions
Bring the team together (virtually or in person) for a friendly competition to showcase their culinary skills in virtual cooking classes or bake offs. Send participants a list of ingredients or kits ahead of time and let their culinary creativity shine. Whether it’s homemade pasta or cupcakes, this activity is a delicious way to bring the team together, no matter where they’re working that day. Offer small prizes for categories like “Most Creative Dish” or “Best Presentation” to make the event even more exciting.
24. Hotel or Getaway Gift Card
Help employees recharge with a gift card they can use for a well-deserved hotel getaway. Whether they choose a luxurious city hotel or a cozy cabin in the woods, this gift shows you value their need to unwind.
25. Subscriptions to Streaming Services
When the workday is done, there’s nothing better than unwinding with a great show or playlist. Gift employees a year-long subscription to popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Spotify. To add a personal touch, include a curated list of must-watch shows or a “feel-good” playlist to kick things off.
26. Team Escape Room Experience
Bring hybrid teams together with an interactive escape room challenge. Whether in-person or virtual, this problem-solving adventure is the perfect mix of fun and teamwork. Arrange a private session so employees can bond in a relaxed, exciting setting. Bonus: follow it up with a casual team dinner or drinks for a complete evening.
27. Gourmet Chocolate Collection
Show your appreciation with a beautifully curated box of gourmet chocolates. Go beyond the basics with a selection of unique flavors, like sea salt caramel or dark chocolate espresso. Include a handwritten note expressing your gratitude to make the gesture even sweeter.
Want to take it a step further? Treat them to a Chocolate Making Class with Wine—a hands-on experience that’s as indulgent as it is fun!
28. Wellness Retreats
Hybrid workers often juggle multiple environments, so treat them to a day of pure relaxation. Host a local wellness retreat featuring yoga classes, meditation sessions, and spa treatments to help them recharge and refocus. For those who can’t attend in person, send a wellness kit with soothing essentials like a plush robe, scented candles, and herbal teas.
29. Lunch Cruises
Elevate the day with a scenic lunch cruise. Perfect for team outings or special rewards, these experiences pair delicious dining with stunning waterfront views. It’s a unique way to relax, connect, and impress.
30. Personalized Travel Accessories
Help hybrid employees stay organized on the go with stylish travel accessories. Custom luggage tags, passport holders, or compact toiletry kits make thoughtful and practical gifts. Add their initials or a motivational quote for an extra personal touch.
Local Ideas: Celebrating Community and Connection
When your company operates from a single location, you have a unique opportunity to tap into the local culture and create meaningful experiences for your team. Local gifts and outings not only show appreciation but also build a sense of community and pride in the place you call home. These ideas celebrate your shared environment while making employees feel deeply valued.
31. Brewery or Winery Tour
Turn an ordinary weekend into an extraordinary outing with a brewery or winery tour. Arrange a group visit to a local hotspot where employees can sample craft beers or fine wines while learning about the production process. This is more than just a tasting—it's a shared experience that fosters camaraderie and supports local businesses. For those who prefer to go at their own pace, offer vouchers they can use with a friend or family members.
32. Values Boards
Bring your company's mission and vision to life with an interactive values board. Dedicate a space in the office where employees can contribute quotes, artwork, or personal stories that reflect your company culture. This evolving display becomes a daily reminder of your shared goals and inspires everyone who walks by. To keep it fresh, host quarterly events to add new contributions and celebrate the team’s collective spirit.
33. Explore Iconic Local Attractions
Treat your team to experiences that highlight the best of your city. For example, New York employees can enjoy tickets to the recently reopened Vessel, Summit, or Top of the Rock for breathtaking skyline views. In other major cities, explore trendy spots like the Museum of Ice Cream or immersive art installations that generate buzz on social media. For those with families, options like LEGOLAND or Madame Tussauds offer fun for all ages, creating memorable experiences that extend beyond the workplace.
34. Concert or Show Tickets
Add some excitement to your team’s evenings with tickets to unforgettable events. Whether it’s a Broadway show, a thrilling Murder Mystery Dinner, or a live concert, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make it extra special by organizing a group outing or offering flexible vouchers so employees can choose the experience that suits them best.
35. Local Adventure Experiences
Help your team rediscover their adventurous side with outdoor activities unique to your area. Think ziplining through a nearby forest, paddleboarding on a local river, or horseback riding in the countryside. Provide options tailored to various comfort levels so everyone feels included.
36. City Passes
Give your employees the keys to the city with passes that grant access to local attractions. From museums and botanical gardens to historic landmarks and aquariums, city passes let your team explore and learn more about the place they work and live in.
Why Local Gifts Matter
Focusing on local ideas creates a ripple effect of positivity. It strengthens ties within your team, supports nearby businesses, and fosters a sense of pride in your community. These gifts and experiences make your employees feel connected not only to your company but also to the vibrant culture of your shared hometown. Show your appreciation in a way that’s as unique as your team and the place you call home.
Nationwide Ideas: Making Every Employee Feel Valued
When your team is spread across the country, creating a sense of unity and appreciation can be challenging—but also deeply rewarding. These ideas are tailored to ensure that no matter where your employees are located, they feel recognized and celebrated. From personalized touches to experiences that resonate across state lines, these nationwide gifts bring your team closer together while honoring their individuality.
37. Nationwide Food Tours
Turn culinary exploration into a memorable experience by offering employees curated food tours in cities across the country. Whether they’re savoring deep-dish pizza in Chicago, indulging in fresh seafood in Boston, or exploring taco trucks in Los Angeles, these tours highlight the best local cuisine. Gift vouchers for food tours let employees choose a date that works for them and even bring a guest to share in the adventure.
38. Curated Experience Collections
Platforms like Giftory make gifting easier than ever with collections of experiences that employees can choose from. Whether it’s a spa day, a helicopter ride, or a cooking class, curated collections ensure there’s something for everyone. The best part? Employees get to pick the activity that excites them the most, making the gift personal and meaningful. It’s an effortless way to offer flexibility while giving a standout experience.
39. Online MasterClass Subscription
Empower your team to explore new passions or sharpen existing skills with a subscription to MasterClass!
40. Personalized Digital Portraits
Add a touch of creativity and fun by commissioning personalized digital portraits of each team member. These one-of-a-kind artworks can reflect their personality, hobbies, or even their role within the company.
41. Charitable Donations
Make a donation in their name to a cause they care about, adding meaning to your gesture.
Why Nationwide Gifts Work
By offering flexible, inclusive options, nationwide gifts ensure that every employee feels appreciated, no matter where they are. These ideas blend thoughtfulness with practicality, catering to a variety of interests while fostering a sense of connection within a geographically diverse team.
Conclusion: Thoughtful Gifting, Meaningful Connections
Showing appreciation for your employees is more than just a nice gesture—it’s an investment in the success and happiness of your team. Whether your employees are remote, hybrid, local, or spread across the country, thoughtful and personalized gifts have the power to foster stronger connections, boost morale, and create a workplace culture that people are excited to be part of.
From creative experiences and wellness perks to personalized keepsakes and community-focused ideas, the key is to choose gifts that resonate with your employees’ unique preferences and needs. By tailoring your approach and putting thought into every detail, you’re not only celebrating their hard work but also reminding them that they’re a valued and integral part of your organization.
So, whether it’s through a curated local adventure, a nationwide experience, or a gesture that reflects your company’s values, these ideas ensure your appreciation shines through. At the end of the day, it’s not just about the gift—it’s about the meaning behind it. Thoughtful gifting makes your team feel seen, valued, and inspired to keep bringing their best to the table.