5 advantages for creating the perfect gift exchange

A holiday party, a family get-together or the office Christmas drinks: a gift exchange brings people together and makes the evening more fun. It also solves a few problems that come with buying presents for a whole group. Here are five reasons to organise the perfect gift exchange.

1. A gift exchange brings people together

A gift exchange gets everyone talking, including the people who normally stay in their corner. Everyone plays the same game, so nobody is left out, and the group feels a little more like a team afterwards.

2. It makes people creative

A theme or a few simple rules for the gift exchange make people think harder about their gift. "Something handmade" or "something from your home town" works well. You end up with more original presents that people remember long after the party.

3. It keeps the giving fair

Buying for everyone can make people feel they have to spend a lot. A gift exchange puts everyone on the same footing, with the same rules and the same budget. The idea behind the gift counts for more than the price, and nobody goes home feeling they overspent.

Agree on the budget, and a theme if you want one, before anyone starts shopping. When everyone knows what to expect, nobody turns up with something far too expensive or far too cheap. A random draw keeps it fair as well.

4. It keeps costs down

Gift exchanges take the pressure off around the holidays, when many budgets are tight. With a spending limit, everyone can take part without worrying about money, and the whole thing feels more relaxed.

5. It adds suspense

Waiting to see what you get from the gift exchange, and who picked your present, adds a bit of fun to any gathering. Those are the moments people talk about afterwards. Decorate the room, put on some cheerful music and serve good snacks, and the exchange feels like part of the party.

Pick the format that suits your group

Secret Santa works well for families and small teams: everyone draws one name and buys for that person. White Elephant, with its swapping and stealing, is better for a big, loud office party, and it suits a group that likes a bit of chaos.

Set up the draw at least two weeks before the party, and you can start planning your own gift exchange in a few minutes.