It’s that time of year again—the inbox is overflowing, you’re wrapping up projects, and your energy is teetering on “I need a nap” and “just get me to January.”
But there’s one thing you don’t want to forget in the year-end rush: showing gratitude to your clients.
Not just a generic email or templated Christmas card. I’m talking about thoughtful, intentional gifting that helps you:
As a small business owner who’s worked with clients for over 20 years and mentors others to do the same—I’ve seen how powerful a simple “thank you” can be.
So let’s get ahead of the rush and plan your client gifting now, before your brain turns to pudding in December.
Skip the mass-produced promo mug with your logo slapped on it. Instead, think about what would make your client feel seen. Have they hit a big milestone this year? Did they support you through a launch? A gift that reflects their journey with you is more memorable than a mass email or ugly branded gift.
If you’re all about wellness, don’t send a box of sugary treats. If you’re a design-led business, make it aesthetically on-brand. Your gift is an extension of your brand experience—it doesn’t have to be big, but it should be you.
Old school? Yes. Still magic? Also yes. A short, heartfelt message will be remembered long after the gift is gone. Especially when you acknowledge what they’ve meant to your business this year.
Not everyone celebrates the same holidays or loves champagne. Be mindful of dietary needs, religious observances, and lifestyles. Gratitude doesn’t need to come wrapped in tinsel.
The best gifts are the ones that feel calm and considered—not last-minute chaos. Batch your gifting, set a budget, and get help (you don’t have to DIY everything!).
Whether you’re service-based, product-based or somewhere in between, here are ideas that won’t blow your budget—but will still wow your clients:
Now’s the time to get it organised—and that includes setting a budget. One way I like to recommend doing this is by grouping your clients into three tiers, based on how much they’ve spent or how engaged they’ve been with your business:
As a guide, allocate around 5–10% of what they’ve spent with you this year. So if a client has invested $5,000 with you, a gift valued between $100–$250 is a generous and appropriate way to show gratitude. It’s not about splashing cash—it’s about making them feel seen, valued, and appreciated.
Let’s be real for a minute: if your gift has your business name, slogan, or logo slapped on it—it’s not a gift. It’s marketing. Unless your brand is Chanel, nobody wants a tote bag or pen with your logo on it as their end-of-year “thank you.”
A true client gift is about them, not you. It should feel thoughtful, personal, and like something they’d actually use or enjoy. If it screams “promo item”—skip it. Your gesture of appreciation should build connection, not feel like an advertising campaign in disguise.
You don’t need to go over the top. You don’t need to send something to everyone you’ve ever emailed. But if there’s a client (or a few) who has stuck by you, cheered you on, or referred their mates—this is your moment to say thanks.
Because when we end the year in gratitude, not exhaustion, we set the tone for what’s possible in the next one.
If you want to brainstorm gifting ideas or prep your client experience for 2026, book an Hour of Power with me and let’s nut it out together (bonus if you bring sweet treats).
Let’s finish strong—on your terms.
Your personal Perth small business mentor & coach—Lala xo
Because you don’t have to do it alone
