Secret Santa has become an unmissable end-of-year ritual in many workplaces. Each participant draws the name of a colleague to whom they must give a gift… without ever revealing their identity! It’s the perfect way to share a cheerful moment without blowing your Christmas budget. In this article, we’ll help you (re)find inspiration for an office gift that’s sure to be a hit!
How it works
Traditionally, one "innocent hand" (often the youngest or most enthusiastic team member) writes down everyone’s names on little bits of paper, then draws them at random. Each person discovers who they’ll be spoiling, while keeping it secret until the big day.
Next, set a reasonable price range (usually between €5 and €20) and agree on a date for the gift exchange.
To make things more fun, you can also pick a theme: handmade, foodie, eco-friendly, a specific colour… the possibilities are endless!
And don’t forget the "secret" in Secret Santa, so shhh, not a word about whose name you’ve drawn!
If you’ve picked a colleague you know well, inspiration will come easily. But if luck wasn’t on your side and you’ve drawn the IT intern you only see three times a year, don’t panic, we’ve got you covered!
To avoid disaster: the (non-exhaustive) list of forbidden gifts
• Useless plastic gadgets that will end up forgotten in a drawer.
• "Borderline" gifts (underwear, deodorants, dodgy jokes, etc.).
• Re-gifted presents. Careful, Luxembourg is small, you never know!
• "Everything for €1" items with the price tag still on? Definitely not!
• Alcohol, unless you’re absolutely sure of the person’s tastes (and beliefs).
And a special mention for mugs and pens: if you’re going to give one, make sure it’s really original! A personalised mug with a funny message or a stylish pen can still work, but avoid the overused "Best colleague ever".
Finally, keep cultural or dietary differences in mind, the gift that makes you laugh might not go down well with everyone.
How to pick the right gift
• Make it personal: discreetly find out about the person’s tastes, hobbies, or little habits.
• Be practical: the idea is to give something useful, that brings a smile and can be used every day.
• Go handmade: a home-made creation, even a slightly wonky one made with heart, is worth more than an impersonal gadget.
• Be original: a funny but kind-spirited gift is always appreciated (think inside jokes), just steer clear of anything awkward.
• Keep it office-friendly: something that can be used at work (or when working from home) avoids misunderstandings… and domestic arguments. 😉
Still out of ideas? Here are our 2025 Secret Santa gift suggestions!
Colouring set for adults from Action and Flowers to build from LEGO
Magic mug from Your Surprise and 3D Led Lamp from Amazon
Board game from Amazon and Scratch off map of the world from Nature et découvertes
Scented candle from Yankee Candle and Hot chocolate bomb with marshmallows from Hema
