Low-key popular for holiday office parties
By Deborah Willoughby
Montgomery (Ala.) Advertiser
The office holiday gift exchange is:
- A joyous, fun-filled opportunity to mark the season, share some laughs and express your appreciation for your co-workers.
- An awkward swap of sticky fruitcakes or ugly coffee mugs with people you don't consider personal friends.
Your personality and your office environment determine whether you choose A or B. Most offices find ways to express seasonal joy and have some fun without causing hurt feelings.
In many offices, the trend is toward low-key, inexpensive and friendly events, perhaps a cookie exchange or a potluck lunch.
But there are plenty of offices that go all out with Christmas decorations, platters of candy and cookies and elaborate lunches. Co-workers might draw names or set up "secret Santa" gift exchanges, contribute toward a present for their boss, or provide major support to a needy family.
Alice McMullan, owner of The Hen Pen Inc. in Montgomery, Ala., sees a lot of people shopping for gifts for co-workers at this time of year. "If it is for a co-worker they're most familiar with, jewelry, usually a bracelet, is what they choose," McMullan said. Angels and crosses are popular themes.
For the boss, a hot item this year is a pewter business-card holder or bookmark with an inspirational message, McMullan said.
