Level Up Your Gift Exchange Game: Fun Ideas for Family and Friends
It feels like it was just yesterday that we were writing about the holidays being just around the corner but, well, here we are again! Gift giving, an expression of love and gratitude, is something that many enjoy, but this year, TOA Waters is encouraging bathers to think not just about what they give but also how they gift it! That’s right, this year we encourage all to relish in experiences with their loved ones that will create memories warm enough to carry us through the colder weather.
If this sounds like something that’s up your alley, check out some ideas for creative gift exchanges that are sure to engage the crowd.
Oh, and before you browse, remember that the caliber of any gift is elevated if there’s a TOA Water’s Premium Bubble Bath involved, so be sure to check out our signature scents once you’ve decided how you will spread your holiday cheer this year!
- Traditional Secret Santa or Secret Snowman Gift Exchange
In a traditional Secret Santa or Secret Snowman Exchange, a limit is set for gift giving. Each participant is assigned someone to buy for and purchases a gift for that person either based on wish lists or preferences. At the designated time, gifts are exchanged. You can have some fun with the exchange by avoiding name tags. Try to wrap presents in ways that represent their recipients, and you’ll be in for a great laugh as people try to figure out which gift is theirs and who purchased it for them.
-
White Elephant Gift Exchange
A White Elephant Gift Exchange is all about having fun rather than about the gifts themselves. In this type of exchange, each participant brings a wrapped gift, usually random and comical. As guests arrive, each is assigned a number. Players then take turns selecting and unwrapping gifts in numerical order. On their turn, players can either steal a gift or open a new one. The last round returns to player #1 who has the option to steal from anyone. This one might mix up some light-hearted tension, but it’s also sure to bring about the right amount of competition and plenty of laughs.
-
Shake things up--with some dice!
Dice games add a fun twist to the traditional Secret Santa Exchange. Each participant buys a gift within the preset spending limit. When it is time for the exchange, all participants sit in a circle with their own gifts in front of them. Beforehand, actions are assigned to numbers 1-6. These actions can include things such as “switch with the person to your right”, “rotate all gifts once to the left”, or “steal from anyone”. When it is time to begin, the first person rolls the dice and starts the fun. The game can continue either until a preset timer goes off or until everyone is left with a gift that is not their own.
-
Musical Chairs Minus the Chairs
This one’s simple. It’s great for kids and even more fun for adults. Seat participants in a circle and play holiday music. As the music plays, participants pass gifts around the circle. When the music stops, the gift is yours!
-
Try a Themed Gift Exchange
If you don’t want things to get too crazy but you need a little something different, try your traditional gift exchange, but add a theme. Maybe the theme involves homemade gifts or supporting local businesses--whatever the case, you’ll encourage thoughtfulness and creativity from your participants.
At the heart of every creative gift exchange is the simple joy of making someone’s day a little brighter. And when life gets as busy as it does during the holidays, there’s something special about giving the gift of relaxation—a chance to slow down, unwind, and just breathe.
A thoughtful addition to any gift this season could be something that encourages a little “me time,” like a luxurious bubble bath. Whether it’s a bold, musky scent that feels warm and cozy, or something light and refreshing that brings a sense of calm, a small gesture like this can turn an ordinary evening into a moment of peace.
So, as you’re planning your holiday exchanges this year, think about the kind of gifts that create a lasting feeling—gifts that help your loved ones relax, recharge, and smile. After all, we could all use a little extra care and comfort during the season.
