Let’s get real: mugs/coffee and pens will no longer suffice as gifts. If they matter, it is high time to enhance the game’s level of appreciation through recognition tweaks. The right gifts for marking project completions or celebrating milestones can be monumental. We mean appreciation gifts ideas for employees that fundamentally boost pride, joy, and even loyalty that employees have for the organisation.
Now, let us see put forth for you 8 creatively impactful gifts that will be the talk of the office for a while.
1) Digital Oil Painting Of Their Best Moment Custom Done

This one certainly tops the chart! Captioned with digital oil painting style, gifting them their proudest work moment portrait, such as winning an award, giving a presentation at an office function, or even candid snaps during trips, is a game changer.
Sentimental and art infused oil paintings reflect class, timelessness, and warmth. Framing them as per the office or home’s vibe adds extravagant elegance.
2) Elegant Timepieces (Watches That Speak)
Fashion trends come and go, but wristwatches have always remained timeless. They represent gratitude and respect for one’s time, whether a person is modern or classic. These accessories say, “Thank you for your time.”
It can be personalised through initials or special dates. With bespoke engraving, wristwatches become sleek appreciation gifts for corporate milestones, retirements, or long service awards.
3) Portrait Painting – Not Just a Photo
For those who wish to go beyond digital, there is an option of commissioning hand-painted portraits. They can be employees, beloved pets, or even family.
With a modern or vintage framing, and heartfelt messages from teammates, they become classy, deeply emotional, and unforgettable gifts.
4) Subscriptions on Mental Wellness and Health
A strong mental makeup is essential for a team to perform well. Gifts related to wellness are incredibly considerate. Options include:
Subscriptions to meditation apps such as
- Headspace or Calm
- Fitness Yoga session vouchers
- Gym memberships
More than 64% of employees stated they would prefer perks aimed at supporting their mental wellness as opposed to one off payment.
5) Fun Mini Trophies with Personal Titles
Add some fun to workplace by creating trophies with titles such as:
- Zoom Call MVP
- Comment Section Model
- Client Whisperer
- Spreadsheet Samurai
Trophies should be given alongside a signed, framed team note. Extra credit is available for small versions that fit an office desk.
6) Made Just for Them: Curated Gift Boxes
Rather than settling for cookie cutter hampers, curated gift boxes tailored to the recipient interests are far more personal:
- Gourmet French press and blend kit for coffee lovers
- Yoga mat alongside healthy snacks and a smartwatch band for fitness enthusiasts
- Journals and candles alongside herbal teas for stress busters
Stay local. Choose nearby sustainable brands or local artisans. It makes the curated gift boxes more authentic.
7) Experience Over Things: Team Outings or Staycations
Every so often, the best gift isn’t a physical item but rather a cherished moment. To reward your best employees, you can treat them to:
- An Airbnb voucher for the weekend.
- Dinner at a fine-dining restaurant.
- Tickets to a concert or sporting event.
- Surprise team days organiser.
There was a Pune-based startup company that reported a 30% boost in engagement after implementing personalized experience appreciation as opposed to using Amazon gift cards.
Final Thoughts
Appreciation shouldn’t feel like a responsibility. It can be as simple as saying, “You matter here.” Be it an oil painting commissioned digitally or an unscheduled weekend trip, appreciation ideas for employees transcend any quarterly review when they foster emotional bonds.
The next time you are tempted to express thanks, don’t just say it, show it. Ready to dive in? Eight ideas are waiting, so choose one. Make someone proud today.
FAQs
1) What is an affordable appreciation gift that stands out?
Under ₹2000, a personalised digital painting, trophy, or snack box will deliver value while being thoughtful.
2) What is the best way to choose an appreciation gift?
Looking for details about the individual, their interests and even an office running joke can help you narrow down gifting options.
3) Can gifted digital items hold significance?
Of course. Personalized emails, like those containing a digital oil painting or an ebook voucher, are quite memorable.
4) When should gifts be given to employees?
During important milestones, anniversaries, recognition for completing a given project, festivals, or even following a tough week. Recognition can happen anytime and does not need to be on a special occasion.
5) In today’s remote working culture, is gifting still relevant?
Now more than ever. Thoughtful gifts are more important in a world with less direct interaction, as they help to bridge the emotional divide.