What’s a White Elephant Gift Exchange?
In a white elephant gift exchange, the first participant selects and unwraps a gift. The next person can take that gift from them or choose a wrapped gift. As the exchange continues, participants can take a gift from any previous participant or select a wrapped gift. Any time someone loses their gift, they can take someone else’s or open a new one. Try these ideas and watch your gift swap hands over and over.
What Are Good White Elephant Gifts?
Good white elephant gifts are those that everyone wants. Cool white elephant gifts will be all the rage simply because they’re trendy or fashionable. You can also choose one of a variety of useful white elephant gift ideas and bring something that everyone wants simply because it’s so handy to have. The key to good white elephant gifts is choosing items that’re affordable but will be more than just gag gifts. We’ve got suggestions that’ll be a hit for around $25 or less.
Secret Santa is another type of gift exchange where each person gives a gift to a recipient whose name they secretly drew. If you’re looking for Secret Santa ideas, don’t worry. These white elephant gift ideas are great for any gift exchange with friends, families or co-workers.
Gift Idea #1: A Decorative Candle
A decorative candle makes an attractive centerpiece or accent piece. The wide variety of candles and accessories available means the gift of a candle can fit just about any home and you can find a style that’s sure to please. Choose from fresh scents or look for unscented options that are perfect for anyone sensitive to strong fragrances. You’ve also got the option of battery-operated electric candles or wax warmers and wax melts that offer fragrance without the flame.
Gift Idea #2: Wine Stoppers
Wine stoppers or wine bottle stoppers make a unique gift that can be a welcome and trendy gift for someone who entertains. Wine stoppers fit standard-sized bottles and help keep the contents fresh by locking out excess oxygen. They also look great and can add a fun, elegant or festive touch to any gathering by dressing up a beverage cart or home bar.
Gift Idea #3: A Serving Tray
A decorative tray is another gift that someone who entertains will love to get. There are many types to choose from. Tower stands are a classy way to serve deserts such as cupcakes, cake and cookies, but they’re also perfect for fruit, candies or even sushi. You can also find trays for dips and garnishes and specialty trays for foods like tacos and fries.
Gift Idea #4: A Burger Press
A burger press is something a person may not know they need until they get it and see how useful it can be. Burger presses are great for crafting burgers for indoor and outdoor grills and griddles. A burger press can create perfectly sized and shaped burger patties, helping even out cooking times for burgers. You can find presses that let the cook quickly create slider patties, black bean burgers and gourmet stuffed burgers.
Gift Idea #5: A Sleep Mask
Giving someone a sleep mask is an affordable way to help them get a good night’s sleep or an energizing midday nap. A standard sleep mask does a great job of blocking out the light with lightweight fabric that doesn’t put too much pressure on the eyes. But you’ve got options beyond the basic. For the ultimate in luxury, give a silk sleep mask or, to give a gift that’s incredibly versatile, look for a mask that can supply hot or cold therapy for relief from headaches, fevers and more.
More Great White Elephant Gifts
If the white elephant gifts ideas above don’t feel quite right, don’t worry. There are many other gifts available for around $25 or less that are perfect for a gift exchange. Find a category that you think will interest potential recipients or pick one that interests you.
Outdoor Activity Gifts
Gifts that get people geared up for outdoor fun are often welcome, and the options are almost limitless. Here are some thought starters.
Gardening Gifts
A gift that fosters interest in gardening and growing opens up the possibility of enjoyment for years to come or can even encourage a new hobby. Here are a couple of gardening gift exchange ideas to get you started:
Fitness Gifts
Help someone begin a habit that keeps them in shape and feeling great. These gift ideas encourage anyone to make fitness and wellbeing a priority.
Grilling Gifts
There are gifts that can turn a casual griller into an expert outdoor chef. These grilling accessories make the most of the versatility of grilling and make sure the cook is ready to grill.
Cooking Gifts
Of course, there are gift ideas for cooking indoors as well. From preparing comfort foods and snacks to topping off the perfect cup of coffee, you’ll find plenty of options.
Décor Gifts
There are some great décor items to consider as well. Think both indoors and, for when the weather gets warmer, outdoors. Start with these ideas.
Fun Stuff
Some gifts are just fun to give and fun to get. If you’re strapped for ideas or time and want to give a gift just about anyone would love, try these.
More Gift Ideas
Check out our gift ideas for more options, or Lowe’s Gift Card is a perfect solution. With our gift cards, your loved ones can choose what they want at Lowe’s store or online at Lowes.com.