Creative Corporate Christmas Gift Ideas

Buying Christmas gifts for clients, employees and other business associates can be difficult. Buyers have to consider what items are appropriate and appealing for a diverse group of people as well as price and budget concerns. The good news is that there are more options than you think. Below are five creative ideas for corporate Christmas gifts this holiday season.

Philanthropy

With the country in the midst of an economic crisis and many CEOs being asked to forgo holiday bonuses this is a great year to incorporate philanthropy into your Christmas gift giving. Consider providing employees with funds to donate to the charity of their choice. Another idea is to make a large corporate donation on your recipients' behalf or if you are a local company to adopt a family in your area. If your business creates a product consider giving a certain amount away this Christmas and engaging employees to help in the distribution. Whatever causes you choose to support first do the necessary legwork to ensure that the charity is reputable and in line with your company's mission and corporate identity.

Regional Favorites

Many online retailers now allow you to send the "taste" of a city. So if you're headquartered in a geographic area with its own distinctive flavor consider sharing it with your clients this Christmas. Getting a Philly cheese steak, Chicago deep-dish pizza or authentic San Francisco sourdough has a "wow" factor especially for associates in remote locals. Even more special, this is a gift employees can share with friends and family.

Events/Experiences

Consider creating memories for employees and business associates by providing tickets to a special event or concert. Offering the gift of an event or experience does not have to break the bank; many companies already have season tickets to events or can work with venues to reserve group tickets at a reduced price. If you are a large corporation it may be most cost effective to hire an entertainer and host a private concert for employees and friends. Whatever event or experience you choose this is a Christmas gift that makes memories and engenders goodwill.

Food

In an age when food prices are skyrocketing an edible Christmas gift will be much appreciated. Choices range from handmade sweets to honey-baked hams and many online retailers will ship to every corner of the country. For large orders retailers can often incorporate your company name or logo on the food or in the packaging. If you decide on an edible gift consider whom you are sending the food to, any dietary concerns and preferences. Many retailers will also create unique gourmet baskets combining food and drink.

Flowers and Plants

Flowers are an easy and popular Christmas gift. Poinsettias and holiday arrangements can be conveniently shipped and are among the most cost effective holiday gift choices. Ensure your employees and business associates will think of you every time they walk through their door by sending a wreath or small tabletop evergreen. As an added benefit those with green sensibilities can plant the flower or tree outside once the season is over.

A Christmas gift won't make or break a business relationship but a creative choice will keep you and your company top of mind for employees and clients alike. So do something different this season, stay away from stodgy pen and pencil sets, and treat those you work with to a unique and unexpected gift, you'll be glad you did!

Prices for corporate gifts vary based on order size and choices. Find out more about these gift options at the following websites:

The Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund; http://www.charitablegift.org/

The Honeybaked Ham Company; http://www.honeybaked.com/

A Southern Season; http://www.southernseason.com/

FTD Florists; http://www.ftd.com/