Corporate gifts are a great way to say thank you, job well done, and that you care about your employees, customers, and business partners. This year, they may be more important than ever.
“This has been a hard year on everyone,” CapeSpace President Robbin Orbison said. “For a relatively low cost, gifts can go a long way to showing your employees and customers you care about them, you’re thinking about them, and for you to stay top-of-mind for them while we’re all going through some hard economic times.”
In the midst of the holiday season, we’ve compiled some gift ideas courtesy of CapeSpace staffers, members, and partners.
Robbin Orbison
With all apologies to candy canes, chocolate is the preferred gift for many during the holidays. It’s something you can’t go wrong with, but if you want to make an even bigger impression, consider Kandy Korner on Hyannis’ Main Street.
Here, owner Paulo Paraguay can get creative with your gifts, putting logos and messages on your specially designed chocolates. “He does it using nearly 100-year-old equipment. It is a real artisan process,” Robbin said. “He’s made items for us using CapeSpace colors and logos. One year, he did chocolates that had the wings of our logo on it. They really make terrific gifts and they’re very affordable.”
In Mashpee Commons, Robbin listed Washashore Bakery, which makes cakes, cookies, pastries and other tasty treats, and The Spice & Tea Exchange as two stores where you’ll find inspiration for your holiday gift-giving.
And for more practical items, she suggested the Verizon Store, also in Mashpee Commons, which sells “all sorts of cell phone accessories which can make nice gifts for your employees.”
Pamela Sande (President & CEO, HR at Work) 
With over 25 years of experience in human resources, CapeSpace member Pamela Sande understands the importance of making employees feel appreciated. At this time of year, that appreciation can include everything from an end-of-year bonus to a gift certificate to a local store or a simple note of thanks.
“Some recognition, like a handwritten note for how thankful you are for them being on your team, that goes a long, long way,” Sande said. “I’ve had employees who would keep these notes on their bulletin board for years. It is the small gestures, showing appreciation, that is really meaningful.”
This year, she’s heard from many about how stressed people have been due to the pandemic and the impact it has had on all of our lives. “I would think about gifts that relieve that stress,” she suggested.
Katy Acheson (Mashpee Chamber of Commerce)
When it comes to gifts, Katy Acheson of the Mashpee Chamber is big on shopping local. “Our small and local businesses give so much to the Mashpee community,” she said. “Now it’s our turn to give back to them by shopping local this holiday season.”
To encourage this, the Chamber has created a fun, festive game – a Shop Local BINGO card. By shopping at local restaurants and businesses like Naukabout, J. Miller Pictureframer, Cape Cod Coffee, Sol Optics and more, you could win Mashpee Commons gift cards and gift stockings.
Along with the businesses listed on the card, Acheson recommended Woodruff’s Art Gallery for affordable local art. The Chamber is also holding a 12 Days of Christmas online auction where you may find the perfect gift for your staff or customers.
More Cape Cod Inspired Gift Ideas
If you’ve been to CapeSpace recently, you’ve undoubtedly seen matted prints of photos of iconic Cape Cod locations taken by the talented Timothy Little of Cape Nights Gallery. There’s the Sagamore Bridge, Nauset Light, Highland Light, and more, all taken at night. They make for great gifts that would add a distinct Cape flavor to any office.
Stop by CapeSpace or email us at info@capespace.com to learn more about purchasing a Cape Nights Gallery print.
At Love Live Local, they’re holding their Love Local Fest Holiday Edition virtually, now through December 12th. With over 40 local makers, crafters, and artisans, you’re bound to find the perfect corporate gift with a Cape feel.
Finally, Independence House is a nonprofit that we love thanks to the work they’ve been doing to support women who have been the victims of domestic violence. You can support this work by purchasing handmade mugs, designed by Barn Hill Pottery of Chatham, and a special blend of Cape Cod Coffee with proceeds going to Independence House.