Creative White Elephant Gift Ideas for Christmas

A white elephant gift is usually something that the giver owned already, but no longer wishes to own or use. In general, white elephant gifts are not purchased specifically for the occasion.

White elephant gifts can come to us in various ways. They may be part of a simple office or club gift exchange -- white elephant gifts are often specified so that no one has to worry about spending money.

Some people stage elaborate white elephant gift exchange games -- each person draws a number, and then everyone gets the chance to pick a gift in number order. But --- people can also steal a gift from someone who has already chosen a gift! The game is often more fun than the actual gifts.

In other cases, people simply choose to give an item they already own as a gift, for sentimental, economic, or environmental reasons. Whatever the occasion, it's important to choose the right white elephant gift for the occasion or person involved.

For an office gift exchange, a coffee mug might be appropriate. Many of us own extra coffee mugs that get little use. Turn a cute coffee mug into a miniature gift basket by filling it with candy or homemade goodies. Or, pack it with pens, pencils, and a small notebook for a writer.

For a white elephant game, it depends on the group you're playing with. Many groups enjoy humorous gifts; the sillier the better. One office I worked in had a fruitcake that was part of the white elephant gift exchange every year -- yes, the same fruitcake every time! This type of group might also enjoy silly hats, unused lingerie, or an outlandish velvet wall hanging.

If your white elephant group is more sedate, think about useful household items that you don't need. For instance, many people have extra dish towels that have never been used. Someone else might appreciate having them. I've gotten several dish towels this way, and used them, too.

Another good white elephant gift I've seen was a stepping stone. One stepping stone might seem rather useless, but stepping stones can go anywhere in a yard, and they don't have to match.

As for personal white elephant gifts, they can be very meaningful. My grandmother, near the end of her life, began giving us gifts from her own things. I still cherish a teacup and saucer that she gave me, as well as a pillar candle that only gets burned at Christmas-time. I also enjoy receiving books that have belonged to other people. I have a few antique books inscribed by ancestors, which are terrific, but I also enjoy more modern books, and don't mind if they've been read before.

Consider the recipient's interests. If they like antique or vintage items, a white elephant gift is perfect. Find something that you really don't need around, like the lava lamp or the 1960's melted plastic ballerina wall hanging. If they like plants, maybe you have one that you don't really like any more, or maybe you can root a cutting of a favorite plant.

If your white elephant gift is matched well to the person or event, it is sure to bring joy to the recipient. Be thoughtful and creative, and your giftgiving will be successful.