Who doesn’t love a “Secret Santa” program? It’s a budget-friendly way to swap presents and celebrate the holidays with friends and coworkers.

Note that what you’d buy for your circle of friends may not be fitting for colleagues. Regardless of how close you are, it’s still a professional activity, so nothing but the most tactful of gifts is appropriate here.

It’s not the time to display your quirky sense of humour (“I saw this paperweight of a donkey and thought of you”) or buy something intensely personal (“I heard you lost your cat, here’s the latest edition of Chicken Noodle Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul”). And since gifts are typically opened in front of the group, you probably don’t want to include a note to your crush to meet you in the stairwell in an hour.

Be interesting, but accessible.
Be playful, but not too edgy.

If you’re really stuck, a donation to a great charity or food bank is always appropriate.