Employee Appreciation Day may be once a year, but showing gratitude to your team should be baked into your company culture year-round. Whether you’re planning an event or simply looking to send a meaningful token of appreciation, gifting is one of the most powerful ways to boost morale, increase engagement, and make your team feel truly seen.

At Lavender + Pine, employee appreciation is one of our favorite forms of corporate gifting. Whether it's a curated box for a standout performer or a thoughtful onboarding gift for a new hire, these small touches can leave a big impact.

Why Employee Gifting Matters More Than Ever

The first quarter of the year can be tough-momentum slows post-holidays, and teams are adjusting to new goals and expectations. A well-timed gift can lift spirits, recognize effort, and reinforce company values.

Pro-tip: Avoid turning your appreciation gift into a marketing moment. While branded swag has its place, it can feel promotional rather than personal. We recommend keeping branding subtle-think custom notecards, logo tags, or branded shipping tape that doesn’t overpower the gift contents.

Employee Gift Ideas That Spark Joy (and Loyalty)

Below are some of our favorite employee appreciation gifts that work beautifully for Employee Appreciation Day, onboarding moments, promotions, and more.

1. Gather Around Gift Box

A cozy, shareable gift box ideal for remote teams or in-office celebrations. 

2. The Promotion Gift Box

Celebrate milestones with a gift that says, “You earned this.” Perfect for title changes, big wins, or leadership recognition.

4. The New Hire Box

Welcome new team members with a gift that sets the tone for a great employee experience. This box is perfect for onboarding or first-day celebrations.

5. Coffee Break Gift Box

Give your team the gift of a quiet moment. This coffee-themed box is a favorite for desk drops, hybrid teams, or mid-week motivation.