Looking for the perfect gift for your co-worker? Consider a range of items from the practical to the whimsical, all with the goal of bringing just a little more joy to the workplace.
The Original Worm
That stressed-out office mate will thank you a dozen times over whenever they reach for the Original Worm. This body roller does double duty by combining the benefits of therapy balls with a foam roller. Four neoprene-encased balls are designed to relieve stress from your feet up to your neck. And the Original Worm can be used pretty much anywhere — from the comfort of your desk, in flight and even in the car. The Worm comes in two sizes, 6.3 and 7 inches, and is available in black and pink. Priced at $24 and $33, the Original Worm is available through Amazon.com.
Rabbit wine stoppers
Share the joy of a perfectly sealed bottle of wine with these handsome, limited edition silicone-and-zinc bottle stoppers from Rabbit. The set comes with two stoppers that create airtight seals on wine and Champagne bottles. The sleek zinc cap features a brushed finish, and the stoppers are BPA-free. They’re exclusive to Williams-Sonoma and are priced at $29.95.
Sticky Stackers
Give your favorite co-worker a bit of inspiration from lifestyle maven Robin McGraw through Sticky Stackers, part of her Me O' My collection. This set of sticky notes comes printed on black and white paper and includes two gel pens. The notes rest in an acrylic case, and the little squares of paper include one of several inspirational messages, such as "Be fearless," "Dream big" and "You are strong." Priced at $19.95 for a dozen pads with 60 notes each. Available through robinmcgrawrevelation.com.
K-Teas
The tea aficionado on your list will, no doubt, appreciate a gift from Atlanta-based K-teas, which touts a foundation in Asia's rich tea tradition and inspiration by American cocktails and European cafes. Consider loose tea combinations that bring to mind mojitos, cosmopolitans and sazerac. K-teas also offers a variety of fragrant chai teas and heady mulling spices. Prices start at about $5, available through k-teas.com.
Umbrella
No matter what the forecast says, an unexpected rain shower is inevitable. And when that happens, your co-worker is going to have nothing but kind thoughts about you when he pops open the ShedRain holiday edition mini umbrella you gave him at the holiday party. It’s available in a vibrant Pop Dot print or classic, subdued black, and neatly folds up to a compact 6 inches. The umbrella comes in an open display gift box and is available for $25 at Macy’s stores.
Candles
Inspired by a love of all things vintage, Himalayan Trading Post candles offer richly fragrant collections in reusable original containers ranging from rustic wooden trays to elegant glass powder boxes. The artisan candles are made with a natural soy wax blend and high-quality essential and fragrance oils. They're poured and packaged in a Decatur studio. Available through himalayantradingpost.com and various local retailers, including Intown ACE Hardware, 854 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, 404-874-5619. Prices start at around $16.
Starbucks card
There's no way you're not going to have at least one coffee fanatic on your gift list this year — realistically, probably several. Thrill them with one of the many new whimsical designs on this season's Starbucks gift cards. Stick with tradition, or choose full-on fun with an ugly sweater design. Either way, you'll have given an ideal gift that won't get cast aside. Cards are available through starbucks.com and in shops, and can be loaded with customized amounts, with a $15 minimum balance.
Copper Caden mail sorter
Ideal for that tidy co-worker who likes to keep an organized desk, this Caden metal mail sorter with a distressed copper finish is sure to please. The embossed caddy with a Parisian flair features two handy slots and fits with just about any decor — at home or in the office. It’s priced at $19.99 and is available at Cost Plus World Market stores.
Beauty Junkees
What do you get the co-worker who's all about makeup all the time? Consider the eight-piece eye makeup brush set from Beauty Junkees. The zippered makeup pouch holds a treasure trove of brushes that work with all types of makeup from glitter, powers and creams. She'll be able to blend, smudge, buff, define, contour and highlight to perfection with this handy set. You'll find it for $24.97 through beautyjunkees.com.
Georgia Peach lotion
Georgia Peach hand and body lotion by Savannah-based Salacia Salts soothes and moisturizes with a nongreasy formula rich in shea butter. The lotion contains essential oils that offer up a slightly sweet fragrance that’s never cloying. It’s considered a vegan lotion and is phthalate-free. Priced at $15.75 at the Red Hound Gifts, 10955 Jones Bridge Road, Alpharetta, 678-624-7733.
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