Last Minute Holiday Presents for Your Boss That Aren’t a Candle

By Lucy Stover, Talent Coordinator, More/Medavoy Management & your co-Editor-in-Chief of THA

Photo by On-Core Bookkeeping

Between sending holiday cards to your team’s clients & booking your redeye, it’s easy to let things slip through the cracks in December–like finding the perfect gift for your boss. 

Hey, no judgement here! We didn’t have time to do a full issue this month, let alone handcraft ornaments for the entire office. Life as an assistant isn’t exactly a Hallmark movie. You don’t need to make it snow in Century City—you just need a small, thoughtful token of appreciation that says, “I see you, I appreciate you, and no, this isn’t a candle.”

The goal: Affordable, appropriate, and ideally not entirely stereotypical. Thoughtful gifts are a great way to stand out in a sea of assistants (or, let’s be honest, the conveyor belt of assistants who came before you).

How much you spend is totally up to you. It depends on your budget, how long you’ve worked there, and your relationship with your boss. Spending under $20 is more than okay—it’s the thought and presentation that matter most. Or, if there isn’t much to spare this month, a card with a handwritten, sentimental note is totally acceptable at our age… it’s not like they’re paying us enough to afford much else. 

One last thing: I’m not going to hyperlink a bunch of random Amazon finds here. I encourage you to shop small or local first. That said, if you lose track of the miracle of Christmas and time runs out, Amazon is there for you. 

I’ve included a few fun suggestions below to spark some inspiration…

1. Coffee grounds from their favorite shop

Alfred

Put all those coffee runs to good use & get your boss what you know they’ll adore. It’s better than a gift card to that coffee shop and will last longer (thus, keep them in your good graces for longer).

2. Gourmet snacks

Joan’s on Third

A boutique treat from a local bakery or farmer’s market. Think macaroons, popcorn, honey, jam, chocolates, nuts, that sort of vibe. Slap a bow on it and call it a day.

3. Coffee table books

Southern Living

They can be a bit pricey when purchased new, but there are plenty of used bookstores or any vintage shop will sell them. Even T.J. Maxx and Homegoods stores hide Tom Ford books on their shelves. It can sit next to their newest edition of Variety.

4. Desk decor

“The Devil Wears Prada” - I feel like her assistant would buy her this one.

Try a chic paperweight, jewelry or nicknack tray, coffee mug warmer, or modern mouse pad. You probably know their desk better than anyone. What would make their daily life easier and better? 

5. Art

Santa Monica on Etsy

Order an art print of their favorite city or last travel destination as a .png, print it at CVS, and throw it in a frame from Target. Boom. 

6. Cocktail & wine accessories

Williams Sonoma

I love gifting fun wine charms, quality bitters, ceramic coasters, or special ice trays. They make ice trays shaped like literally everything–like this one of Hogwarts Castle! You could also do a small bottle of their favorite drink… if you can afford it. Make sure you’re 100% positive they aren't sober if you opt for this. 

7. Fancy cooking ingredients

Oaktown Spice Shop

I’m talking Himalayan Pink Rock Salt from the moon. Or like. Fancy seasonings, olive oil & balsamic vinegar sets, maple butter, etc. Something to add a little spice to their next homemade meal (pun intended). 

You got this, Santa('s helper)!