D.P.
Try something personal, a tote with her initials on it and stuffed inside some of her favorite treats or personalized stationary with her initial on it.
VillageMom
www.ittakesavillagedallas.com
My boss who is the greatest by the way I just don't know what to get her for Christmas. She is married to a guy that play's rugby so she doesn't strike me as the type of girly girl mom-no offense by any means to anyone but like getting her a gift card for a massage or nails is just out of the question because I just don't see her using it. She has two kids one daughter and one son. The son was diagnosed with Leukemia when he was 4 and is now 6. What would a boss and mother of a "sick" child and married to a rugby player want for Christmas. The only thing I can think of is maybe some Gift Certificates from Walmart, McDonalds, and Dunkin Donuts. She isn't a coffee drinker so Starbucks is out of the question. I just HATE gift certificates though....half the time they don't work and I just recently read an article saying to make sure you buy from places that don't keep their gift card accessible to anyone just standing in line because fraudsters are now taking those unpurchased cards and somehow getting the information and waiting for the card to get purchased and then bam they have your gift money. I just want a "unique" good gift that she will enjoy and use.
Try something personal, a tote with her initials on it and stuffed inside some of her favorite treats or personalized stationary with her initial on it.
VillageMom
www.ittakesavillagedallas.com
How about a big fat box of Godiva chocolates. Pricey-yes, worth every penny-absolutely!
What sorts of things does SHE enjoy? Where does she shop, I would nix any gift cards, its your boss and it should be tangible. My old boss loved to cook and loved clothes so that was easy. I would always listen out to what he was in to nearing the holidays and what cooking shows he was watching. She will appreciate anything I'm sure.
I know you would rather not do a gift certificate but here is a different type of one. How about a gift card to a place like Shutterfly.com or Kodak.com so she can create a book of pictures of her family. It's easy and fun to do and she'll be able to create a great book of memories.
how bout tickets to take the kids to the movies... or better yet.. how bout tickets for her and her hubby to the movies.. and you babysit.. maybe she would enjoy that.. or rest. gift cert..and you babysit... just an idea..
Land's End Monogrammed Tote?
Godiva chocolates?
Movie theater gift card in a basket with "movie candy" and microwaveable popcorn?
What is her job? TJ Maxx has awesome leather desk accessories.
Personally, I wouldn't do a gift card to the stores you listed--too impersonal for a boss.
And I rally don't think the fact that her hubby plays rugby or that he has a sick child really has any bearing on the gift you choose...focus on what she does, what she likes, her interests, etc.
Personally I think a mom with all those commitments might like a massage!
but other things- does she drink tea or coffee at the office? A gift card for her morning coffee would be nice. Last holiday season our boss got each of us a nice mug and a tin of tea- if she is a tea drinker, she might like that.
My husband and I are both retired rugby players. I played rugby for over 10 years but I can honestly say that I LOVE getting manicures, pedicures and massages. Now that I'm a mother of 2, I enjoy the alone time and relaxation of getting manicures, pedicures and massages. So I personally think a pedicure or massage would be fantastic. How about buying her some movie tickets and a restaurant gift card so she and her husband could have a date night (offer to babysit if you have that kind of relationship). Is she a reader or really into anything? Books are great gifts as are magazine subscriptions. I'm not sure what your budget is but a nice purse, wallet or pair of sunglasses are nice too. Whatever you get her, just remember, it's the thought that counts!
Does the family do things together? Like watching movies? If so, fix them a movie night basket. Put a gift card to a local movie place, so they can get a movie or two. Then put popcorn, drinks, candy, small toys, etc. Then it would be a gift that she could enjoy with her family.
Something from Edible Arrangements (if they're in your area)? I'd say only do that, though, if you have her home address. Otherwise, coworkers may feel pressured to get something nice, too, if they see your order arrive at work.