Making the Holidays Meaningful for Your Team

As the holidays roll in, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush — wrapping up projects, closing out the year, and making sure everything’s ready for January. But for small business owners, this season is also a wonderful chance to slow down and connect with the people who make it all happen; to create meaningful holiday experiences for your team members.

It doesn’t take a big party or a big budget to make employees feel appreciated. What really matters is authentic sincerity — letting people know you see them, that you value who they are and what they’ve contributed.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as a handwritten note. Not a generic “thank you,” but a real message that names something specific that person did this year — a moment they helped a customer, supported a co-worker, or just showed up when it mattered. Sending it to their home adds an extra touch — it feels more personal, more genuine.

Another powerful gesture is time. A surprise afternoon off or an extra vacation day gives people the breathing room they crave during this busy season. It’s a reminder that you respect their lives outside of work, too.

And of course, nothing beats coming together in person. A shared meal, a potluck, or even a casual outing to a local spot — these moments of laughter and connections stay with people long after the holidays are over. You can keep it lighthearted with things like a cookie decorating table, a festive trivia game, or an ugly sweater contest. Use this occasion to thank each staff member personally for their contribution throughout the year, if possible, either publicly or 1:1.

If the budget allows, a thoughtful, practical gift, holiday bonus or gift card can be appreciated by staff, especially when paired with personal acknowledgement.

It can also be meaningful to give back as a team — maybe by volunteering, donating gifts, or helping out at a local charity. It’s a lovely way to celebrate the season while reminding everyone that the work you do together extends beyond your walls.

And while many may celebrate Christmas, not everyone does — so it’s good to keep things inclusive. “Holiday season” or “festive season” language helps everyone feel part of the celebration. Acknowledge the differences that exist and make the celebrations inclusive of all the diversity that exists amongst your staff.

At the end of the day, people usually don’t remember how much you spent. They remember how you made them feel. A thoughtful note, a bit of flexibility, a genuine thank you; these things go a long way toward building loyalty and belonging.

That’s what makes the holidays special. Not the gifts or decorations, but the connections we nurture and the gratitude we show for the people who help us do what we do all year long.