Farewell Gift Ideas for Leaving Colleagues

Just like life, workplaces are full surprises. You don't always have the best days, but people around you make everything bearable, and better.

However, colleagues change paths and careers as well, and saying goodbye to them is always a bittersweet moment: you feel sad that you won't get to work with them anymore, but you feel happy for them seizing great opportunities, given how passionate and hard-working they are.

And the best way to encapsulate that feeling? Through farewell gifts! Whether it's a sentimental gift, a practical gift, or a gift box that suits your coworker's personality, this is a thoughtful gesture they can remember you by, and your support will give them strength to face their next journey head on!

Why Employee Leaving Gifts Matter

To show appreciation – Saying thank you is important!  Your colleague has spent most of their time with you and other people at work, and it's always nice to hear or read how much they've appreciated your presence.

To celebrate their achievements – It's always a great feeling to reminisce and celebrate the good times, whether it's landing a big project, closing a deal, or simply being an amazing teammate. Giving a leaving gift is a way to highlight their accomplishments and show how much they've contributed to the team.

To boost morale – Bidding farewell to a departing coworker can affect the dynamics of the team, and giving a thoughtful farewell gift can help boost morale and bring positivity during this time of transition.

To strengthen company culture – If you show appreciation and value employees through small gestures like farewell gifts, that can strengthen your company culture. It shows that the company cares about their employees even when they're leaving, and this can leave a positive impression on both current and future employees.

To support them on their next journey – An employee leaving gift is both a memorable keepsake and a symbol of patting them back saying, 'You've done great, and we're rooting for you in your next chapter!' It can also serve as a reminder that they always have a supportive network to turn to, even outside of work.

Choosing the Right Leaving Gift

Know employee’s preferences – When choosing a leaving gift, consider the person's interests and hobbies. Whether they're an avid reader, or love wall art, personalized gifts show that you put thought and effort into it, giving them a unique farewell gift you know they'll love.

Take into account practicality and durability – Sometimes, practical gifts are the most appreciated ones! Consider items that your colleague can use in their next job or everyday life, such as a nice bag for work, a planner, or just something practical they've alway mentioned to you but still, for some reason, haven't bought one for themselves.

Make sure it's meaningful and/or useful – A great gift should have a purpose and meaning behind it. Think of something that represents your colleague's time at work, or something they can use to remember their time with the team. It doesn't have to be expensive, just thoughtful.

Popular Employee Leaving Gift Ideas

Gift boxes – Gift boxes are a great option because they can be customized to suit the person's interests, whether it's a spa and relaxation box or a foodie box. This also makes it easier for you to choose a gift, as you can simply pick a box that aligns with your colleague's personality.

Personalized items – Personalized goodbye gifts are always a hit because they show effort and thoughtfulness. Personalized items can range from mugs, pens, notebooks, and clothing with their initials or a heartfelt message engraved.

Company memento – Another thoughtful gift idea is to give a memento from the company, such as a framed photo of the team or a handmade collage with a special message from everyone. This serves as a special reminder of their time at the company and the people they worked with.

Experience gifts – Consider gifting your colleague with experience gift cards they can enjoy outside of work, such as tickets to a show or concert, a spa day, or a fun outdoor activity.  Encourage them to create new memories and have something to look forward to after leaving the company.

30 Meaningful Gifts for Departing Colleagues

Spa Gift Basket

Why it's a good farewell gift: Giving your colleague a spa gift basket shows them that you care about their well-being and encourages them to take some time for self-care. It's a great way to help them relax and de-stress before starting their next chapter.

The gift box includes:

• Warmies microwavable slippers
• Personalized insulated stainless steel tumbler with lid and matching straw
• Cool mist USB electric essential oil diffuser
• Spa Day soy candle
• Premium almond body lotion
• Recovery bath salts
• Almond honey oatmeal soap
• Silky soft eye shade and scrunchy set
• Lavender essential oil
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Personalized Refillable Portfolio

Why it's a good farewell gift: This wonderful gift can be their new essential companion in their new job! It's practical, stylish, and can be personalized with their name or initials. They can use it for meetings, interviews, or just to keep their important documents organized.

The gift features:

• Size 12x9 inch
• Notepad is lined paper which measures 8.5x11.75 inch. It can be replaced with any memo/notepad up to 8.5x11.75 inch.
• Material: synthetic vegan leather
• Color options: Rawhide, Black (Gold), Cork, Light Brown, Marble, Rose, Pink, Teal, Gray, Black (Silver), Blue, Rustic (Gold)
• Personalization on front cover and inside the cover

Sweet Gift Crate

Why it's a good farewell gift: If your departing colleague has a sweet tooth, or you have a fun memory sharing sweets before, this gift crate is perfect for them! Available in three sizes, this crate will show them how much they'll be missed.

The gift features:

• Premium Classic Selection cookies
• Dolcetto hazelnut wafer cubes
• Mini stroopwafels
• Albanese gummy bears
• Dolcetto creamy chocolate rolled wafers
• Gourmet Chicago Mix (caramel & cheddar) popcorn and many more

Wine Glasses and Cheese Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: Your colleague will appreciate this luxurious gift filled with delicious treats that they can enjoy with a glass of wine. It's perfect for those last days at work when you want to unwind and reminisce about the good times.

The gift box includes:

• Personalized bamboo cheese cutting board with handles
• Set of four bamboo cheese knives
• Two personalized stemless wine glasses
• Citrus, ginger & thyme artisan crisps
• Organic sourdough flatbread bites
• Brie creamy cheese spread
• Smoked gouda creamy cheese spread
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Custom Desk Plate

Why it's a good farewell gift: Aside from a desk calendar, this desk gift will also be a useful addition to their new workspace. Not only does it add a personal touch, but it also helps them claim their space in the new office. Or even if they're not working in an office anymore, they can use it as a decorative piece in their home.

The gift features:

• Personalized illuminated acrylic table plaques with wooden bases
• Each plaque can be engraved with personalized text
• UV printing
• Handmade

Personalized Wine Glasses and Coasters

Why it's a good farewell gift: If your colleague loves to unwind with a glass of wine, then this is the best farewell gift for them! The personalized wine glasses and coasters make it unique and special, reminding them of their time at the company every time they use them.

The gift features:

• Two or four personalized 15 oz wine glasses - each glass engraved with large initial and name
• Two or four personalized tumbled 4 in. marble coasters - each coaster printed with large initial, name and optional saying or quote

A BIG Thank You Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: This the perfect gift for coworkers who always have big ideas for the company and for themselves. If they're jumping on to a career shift, or if they're still trying to decide what to do next, this gift box can hold all their ideas while also reminding them of the big impact they had at the company.

The gift box includes:

• "Thanks" Thoughtfulls pop up cards
• Big Ideas sketchbook - 180 blank cream pages
• "Thank You" soy scented candle
• Stylish felt pens
• Seattle Chocolate Thank You truffle bar
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Custom Cooler Bag

Why it's a good farewell gift: This personalized cooler bag is a practical gift that your departing colleague can use for outdoor activities, picnics, or even just for lunch at work. It's also a reminder of the fun times you've shared during company outings and team lunches.

The gift features:

• 600-denier polyester
• PEVA (PVC free) lining
• Capacity: 12 bottles or 18 cans
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Front pocket storage
• You can add your logo or custom text to this cooler

Mindfulness Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: Saying goodbye can be a stressful and emotional time, but this mindfulness gift box can help your colleague find peace and relaxation. It's filled with self-care items that encourage mindfulness and taking a break from the chaos of everyday life.

The gift box includes:

• Stay Curious journal
• Gold candle snuffer
• Peach & red currant citrus scented candle in gold tin
• You're Wonderful Thoughtfulls pop open cards
• Gold pen
• Pearl brightening face mask
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Gift Basket for the Home

Why it's a good farewell gift: This gift basket is perfect for colleagues who are moving away or starting a new chapter in their life. It's filled with items that will make their new house feel like a home and remind them of the memories shared at the company!

The gift box includes:

• Realistic faux succulent in ceramic white pot
• Stylish Sunny Stripe checked tea towel
• Sweet orange citrus scented candle in gold tin
• Anellabees honey butter candies
• Salted caramel almond chocolate chip cookies
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Computer Daypack

Why it's a good farewell gift: This practical and stylish daypack is an ideal gift for colleagues who are constantly on the go. It can hold their laptop, documents, and other essentials while also showcasing your company's branding or a personalized message.

The gift features:

• Daypack design
• Wipe-clean tarpaulin bottom
• Large zippered front pocket
• Top loops to secure rain jacket or umbrella
• Holds up to a 15.6" laptop and space to hold a tablet
• Interior mesh pocket
• Side water bottle pockets
• Imprint Type: Embroidered

Tasty Thank You Gift

Why it's a good farewell gift: For the foodie colleague who always knows the best places to eat and loves to try new dishes! This gift box is filled with delicious treats that will remind them of the tasty lunches and dinners shared at work.

The gift box includes:

• Thank You hard-cover book
• "Thank You" soy scented candle
• Salted pretzels
• Shortbread cookies
• Chicago Mix popcorn
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Morning Tea Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: For colleagues who prefer their drinks hot in the morning, this gift box is the perfect farewell present. It's filled with loose teas and a stylish mug, perfect for a moment of silence before starting the day.

The gift box includes:

• Mosaic gold plated ceramic mug
• Gold scoop clip
• Gold tea ball with handle
• Rival Bros Breakfast Blend loose tea
• Rival Bros Earl Grey loose tea
• Rival Bros Jasmine Green loose tea
• Rival Bros Masala Chai loose tea
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Succulents Gifts

Why it's a good farewell gift: A succulent, like a peace lily, symbolizes growth and resilience. It's low-maintenance, making it ideal for any setting. Paired with a thoughtful farewell card, it offers a lasting reminder of the bonds and memories your departing co-workers had at work.

The gift features:

• Ceramic planter measures approximately 4" x 3.5"
• Arrives in a ceramic planter
• Note that peace lilies are toxic to pets and people, make sure to place them out of reach from our furry friends and children!

Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Set

Why it's a good farewell gift: A unique gift like this olive oil and balsamic vinegar set can show your colleague that you appreciate their taste for good food. It's perfect for dressing up salads or using as dipping sauces, reminding them of the delicious meals they shared with their work family.

The gift box includes:

• Teak wood round cutting/serving board
• Sutter and Buttes olive oil and balsamic vinegar set
• Two personalized stemless wine glasses
• Dolcetto olive oil Tuscan crisps
• Mini bruschette
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Dream Big Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: Whether your colleague will take on a new job in the same field, or toward a completely new journey, let them know that you want them to chase their dreams in their next adventure! This gift box is filled with items that will inspire and motivate them to keep reaching for the stars.

The gift box includes:

• "Dream Big and Dare to Fail" notebook
• Dream Thoughtfulls cards (each pop-open card contains an inspirational quote)
• Three-pack of stylish felt tip pens
• Salted caramel chocolate-covered pretzel rods
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Experience e-Gift Card

Why it's a good farewell gift: Common gifts for coworkers leaving are tangible products, so if you're looking for a more memorable one, opt for an experience instead! Give them the opportunity to choose from a wide range of experiences, such as spa days, wine tastings, or cooking classes.

The gift features:

• Thousands of experiences on offer across the U.S.
• No expiration dates
• Exclusively valid for redeeming experiences on the Virgin Experience Gifts website

Office Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: For colleagues who are leaving to start their own business or work from home! With items that will make their new workspace feel cozy and productive, while also reminding them of the support and friendships they had at the office.

The gift box includes:

• Personalized leatherette notebook
• Rosewood pen in personalized rosewood case
• Personalized insulated water bottle
• Beautiful large faux succulent in white ceramic pot
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Leopard-themed Spa Gift Basket

Why it's a good farewell gift: This gift basket is perfect for the colleague who loves to pamper themselves and appreciates a touch of leopard print in their life! Like leopards who are good climbers, your colleague is moving on to even greater heights, and this gift will remind them to take care of themselves along the way.

The gift basket includes:

• Voss sparkling water in glass bottle
• Sea salt + citrus scented candle
• Almond body lotion
• Soft, comfortable leopard eye mask with matching hair scrunchie
• Gold and glitter bath bombs
• Salted caramel chocolate-covered pretzel rods
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Spa Gift Card

 

 

Why it's a good farewell gift: If they've already done a spa-at-home session, they might want to enjoy the real thing! Give your coworker a chance to relax and rejuvenate with a spa gift card that can be used at thousands of spas worldwide.

The gift features:

• One card, endless spa & salon options
• Never expires
• Good at thousands of locations

Premium Personalized Wine Glass Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: A personalized wine glass is a classic gift that will make your colleague feel special and appreciated. This premium gift box adds a touch of elegance with its sleek design and high-quality materials, making it a memorable farewell present.

The gift box includes:

• Two Master Reserve Prism premium wine glasses (each glass can be engraved with a unique name)
• Professional LED automatic wine rechargeable bottle opener
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Candle Warmer Gift Crate

Why it's a good farewell gift: A candle warmer is a perfect gift for someone who loves candles but wants to avoid the danger of open flames. An ideal farewell gift for a colleague who could use some calming moments during their transition.

The gift crate includes:

• 2-in-1 ceramic electric candle warmer/wax melter
• Sea salt + citrus scented soy candle in jar with lid
• Large stylish white and gray diamond patterned hand towels
• Bergamot lime wax melts
• Lavender thyme wax melts
• Soft cotton wax melts
• Personalized greeting card with your message to gift recipient

Mobile Office Commuter Sleeve

Why it's a good farewell gift: On the way to their new job, this practical gift can hold their work laptop, documents and other items. It's perfect for the colleague who is always on the go and needs to keep their essentials organized.

The gift features:

• Top flap with hook and loop fasteners
• Easy access to interior compartments when the flap is open
• Front interior pocket for storing papers or folders
• Side zippers fully unzip for easy access to contents
• Padded laptop compartment fits up to a 15” laptop
• Interior organizer with pockets for pens, cords, flash drives, and a smartphone
• Interior slash pocket for a notebook or junior padfolio

Personalized Wine Glasses and Charms

Why it's a good farewell gift: As a farewell gift, give your coworker something elegant that they can use for a long time! This wine glasses and charms set is a great reminder of how during their tenure, they lightened up the workplace with their charm and passion, telling them they can do the same with everything they pursue wholeheartedly!

The gift features:

• Four personalized wine glasses - each glass can be engraved with a unique name
• Set of six fashion jewelry wine glass charms - six different colors to easily differentiate glasses
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Recovery Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: Transitioning to a new job or perhaps a new stage in their life (like parenthood) can be demanding, so give your colleague a gift that allows them to relax and recover from the hustle and bustle!

The gift box includes:

• Microwavable neck heating wrap with handles
• Cozy blanket
• Personalized insulated water bottle
• Soft, comfortable eye mask with matching hair scrunchie
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Custom Portable Charger

Why it's a good farewell gift: Just like how they gave the team energy and helped them power through tasks and projects, give them a farewell gift that will do the same! A power bank is a reliable gift they can use on the go, and it can be customized with any meaningful text or your company logo.

The gift box includes:

• Made of recycled plastic
• 10,000 mAh/36Wh rechargeable lithium battery
• Type C and USB-A output ports
• Charge two electronic devices at once
• Includes 39-inch USB-A-to-Type-C cable

Mimosa Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: Bidding goodbye to a leaving colleague makes everyone sad, so why not give them a gift that will cheer them up? Once they're home, they can celebrate both the journey they had with you, and the new journey they will embark on with this delightful mimosa gift box!

The gift box includes:

• Luxurious instant mimosa sugar cube sets: Luxue Bubblies sugar set or Luxue Citrus sugar set
• Four personalized glass champagne flutes
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Personalized Leather Journal Gift

Why it's a good farewell gift: If the departing colleague is someone who loves to write, this gift will make a lasting impression! This personalized set of journals and pens will be their companion, holding all their memories with you, and their future memories in their new endeavor.

The gift box includes:

• Personalized premium handcrafted top grain leather writers log
• Personalized handcrafted rosewood pen in rosewood case
• Rustic Bakery salted caramel shortbread cookies
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Custom Earbuds

Why it's a good farewell gift: If they love to listen to music or podcasts, this custom earbuds set is for them! It's a practical and thoughtful gift that they can use every day, and you can customize it with their name or a picture of something they always liked!

The gift features:

• Bluetooth version 5.0
• Bluetooth working range at 33 feet
• 350mAh Charging case;  appx. 1.5 hours of charge time
• 4-5 Hours of playback time; 100 hours of standby
• Micro USB cord included to re-charge from the case
• FCC Certified

Essential Oils Gift Box

Why it's a good farewell gift: These essential oils will be a great reminder of your colleague's time with the team, and it will also help them relax and de-stress during their transition. The soothing scents are perfect for unwinding after a long day at work or to create a peaceful atmosphere in their new office.

The gift box includes:

• Cool mist USB electric essential oil diffuser
• 3 bottles Smith & Vandiver massage oils
• 3 silver mercury votive candle holders
• 3 votive candles
• 3 bottles of Plant Therapy essential oils
• Personalized card with your message to gift recipient

Employee Leaving Gifts at Shadow Breeze

Here at Shadow Breeze, we want departing colleagues to feel truly appreciated for both the work they put in during their time, and the way they've bonded with their fellow coworkers and created remarkable memories that will be treasured forever. That's why we curated a list that'll help organizations select the most wonderful gifts for their leaving employees.

Our collection of personalized gifts and gift boxes will leave a lasting impression on the recipients and make them feel special during their farewell.  We have elegant wine glasses, relaxing spa items, coffee and teas, and many more items that can be customized with the recipient's name or a special message - giving them a personal touch to remember their time with you.

We understand that saying goodbye is difficult, but we believe that giving a thoughtful farewell gift can make the transition more memorable and heartwarming. Browse our selection and send off your departing colleagues with heartfelt gifts from Shadow Breeze!

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