"Suz-prizes"

Confession: I love presents. I love both giving and receiving.

I know many of you are not surprise by this. One of my first memories regarding this very topic was when my aunt and uncle came home from a trip to Hawaii.  My somewhat presumptuous four-year old self asked the question on everyone’s mind, “Did you bring me anything?” My well-mannered mother was mortified. But I made out with a bandit with a hula skirt and a children’s book about the islands. My 24-year old self still feels the same way. But now, I love buying people things or as I would say “Suz-prizes.” I just love it.  

My loving office also loves gift giving and receiving. Every year, we host an annual secret gift exchange. This year we renamed it “Secret Holiday Armadillo Pal” in the spirit of diversity (which I also love) rather than “Secret Santa.”

Last year, I got a beautiful personalized apron since I collect aprons and I love to cook. This year I received a wonderful Starbucks tumbler to feed my iced coffee addiction and a bag full of my favorite treats. But what do you do if you don’t know what to get your Secret Armadillo Pal or Secret Santa? Here are some tips:

Do your research. Ask a colleague who they are close to or observe their desk.

Find out where they went to college. Everyone loves paraphernalia from his or her alma mater.

Don’t buy anything too personal. No one wants to receive a Victoria's Secret gift card from a co-worker.

Think relaxation. Work is hard. Who wouldn’t want a gift card for a manicure?

If all else fails, buy your recipient a Target gift card. That’s what I did this year. You’re never too far from the red dot boutique and everyone can always find something they need or want there.

Happy Gift Giving!