The holidays are just around the corner, and guess who doesn’t need another generic gift set from the store?

Your employees and loved ones!

They’re probably tired of the same cookie-cutter presents year after year and are probably not excited to see what you get them if you always go for the expected.

Why not blow their minds this year?

You can add a personal touch to your holiday gifting with custom-made gift bags that genuinely reflect your creativity and thoughtfulness. If you don’t know where to start, you’re in the right place.

In this article, we share five simple tips to get you started and ensure you leave a lasting impression this holiday season.

So, let’s jump right in. Shall we?

# 1. Invest in Custom Gift Bags

If you’re like most employers, you’ve probably gotten in the habit of giving holiday gifts because it’s expected. You let your team handle all the work, ensuring everyone gets a gift, and you’re good until the next holiday season.

**Does this sound familiar?

You’re not alone. Many employers are guilty of this. But you can change things up and make your employees feel valued.

A small gesture like opting for [custom holiday gift bags](https://www.amsterdamprinting.com/blog/2023/11/20/the-best-custom-gift-bags-for-the-holidays/) shows that a lot of thought went into the gifting process. You have several options here. For one, you can get custom tote bags, which are gifts in themselves.

They are reusable, and any environmentally-conscious person will appreciate them. Not to mention, since they’re long-lasting and useful, they’ll keep them for a long time. Everyone loves a gift that keeps on giving.

You can also opt for something even more useful, such as a laptop bag, toiletries bag, or backpack branded with your company logo.

# 2. Choose a Theme

Another way to enhance your personalized holiday gift bag is to ensure you choose a coherent theme. Think about the person you’re gifting.

What are they into? Do they like rustic, playful, or glamorous items?

Such information will give you an idea of the kind of theme that will speak to who they are. If you’re gifting a team, you can give your assistance the homework to find out little details about your team that can go into adding a personal touch to each gift bag.

This way, each person will feel valued and seen, which is different when they all receive the same gift with the same details. It’s easier when you’re gifting a loved one.

Since you know them well, pick something you’re sure they’ll love the most and incorporate it in the gift bag design.

# 3. Include Creative Packaging Details

It’s also essential to consider adding unique touches to your gift bag to make it stand out. For example, you can decorate the handles with decorative ribbons or ornaments.

It’s even better if you choose eco-friendly fabrics because the decorative items will elevate the look of the bag, making it usable and stylish for years to come.

However, when it comes to adding these unique elements, don’t go overboard. Adding too many ribbons or ornaments may work against the decorative elements you add to the bag during printing. Less is always more.

# 4. Add Names or a Heartfelt Message

Nothing gives someone a sense of ownership than having their name on a gift. When it has their names or initials on it, they tend to hold it more dear to their hearts. Not to mention, even if it’s the same gift everyone else got, it doesn’t feel as such because it’s customized to them.

A heartfelt message is also a good way to go. Just be sure to choose something short and sweet to prevent it from taking up too much space on the gift bag. It’s also important to choose the right calligraphy and colors that complement the theme you choose for the gift bags.

# 5. Pick Thoughtful Items

A holiday gift bag is incomplete without the gifts, and here’s where many people go wrong. You may have done an excellent job picking the theme and customizing your gift bags, but everything goes wrong in your gift selection.

Just like the gift bag, avoid picking the first thing you come across at the store. Consider something unique, like their favorite snacks, accessories, or hobby-related goodies.

It’s also a good idea to include something handmade, like baked goods, hand-poured candles, or DIY ornaments.

# Wrapping Up
With these tips, you’re well on your way to being an impressive gift giver this holiday season.

Whether you’re looking to gift your employees as a show of appreciation for their hard work throughout the year or your loved ones to remind them how special they are, you won’t go wrong with these tips.

Remember to choose high-quality materials for your gift bag and fill it with thoughtful gifts–it doesn’t have to be something expensive, just heartfelt.