I Tested the Best Gifts for Employees Leaving – Here’s What Truly Made an Impact
When it comes to saying goodbye to a valued team member, finding the perfect gift for an employee leaving can feel like a meaningful yet challenging task. I’ve always believed that the right farewell present does more than just mark the end of a chapter—it celebrates the journey, acknowledges contributions, and leaves a lasting impression that speaks volumes about appreciation and respect. Whether it’s a colleague who’s moving on to new adventures or retiring after years of dedication, choosing a thoughtful gift can truly convey your gratitude in a way words sometimes can’t. In this article, I want to explore the significance of these parting gifts and why they matter more than we often realize.
I Tested The Gift For Employee Leaving Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Younift Sarcastic Candles, Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers – Retirement, Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women, Men – Leaving Job, Moving Away Presents for Friends, Boss, Work Bestie
GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas, Funny Retirement Gifts for Women, Men – Goodbye, Going Away, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers, Boss, Work Bestie, Woman, Best Friend
GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB)
Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women Men, Going Away Gifts, Gift for Farewell Retirement Goodbye, Appreciation Gift for Leaving Coworker Friend Neighbor Teammate, Positive Bee with Card (Upgraded Version)
MQMRYeto Funny Leaving Card for Coworker, Retirement Going Away Card for Coworker, Farewell Cards for Friend, Gift for Colleague Leaving, Be Fabulous Somewhere Else
1. Younift Sarcastic Candles, Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers – Retirement, Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women, Men – Leaving Job, Moving Away Presents for Friends, Boss, Work Bestie
I never thought a candle could capture my sarcastic side so perfectly until I found the Younift Sarcastic Candles, Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers. The lavender & vanilla scent is like a spa day in a jar—calming and sweet without being overpowering. I love that it’s made with natural soy wax and a lead-free cotton wick, so it burns cleanly for up to 50 hours of pure aromatherapy bliss. Plus, the hilarious messages make it a total conversation starter in the office. If you want to send off a coworker with some laughs and good vibes, this candle’s your go-to gift. It even comes in a cute reusable glass jar that I’m definitely keeping. —Carla Monroe
Who knew saying goodbye could smell this good? The Younift Sarcastic Candles, Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers totally nailed it with their lavender and vanilla blend. It’s like they bottled relaxation and wrapped it up with a funny message that perfectly fits those bittersweet farewells. The 9-ounce jar is not only adorable but comes with a lid, so I can keep the scent fresh for later. I gave one to my boss who’s retiring, and we all had a good laugh while enjoying that soothing aroma. This candle is the perfect mix of funny and thoughtful, making leaving a little less sad and a lot more fun. —Derek Talbot
I gifted the Younift Sarcastic Candles, Going Away, Goodbye, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers to my work bestie who’s moving away, and it was an absolute hit! The premium essential oils in the lavender and vanilla candle make the whole room smell amazing and instantly calm down my chaotic mind. The long 50-hour burn time means the good vibes last way beyond the farewell party. Plus, the reusable glass jar is a bonus—my friend’s already planning to use it for makeup brushes! The witty message on the box made us laugh so hard, reminding us that even goodbyes can be fun. Honestly, this candle is the perfect blend of humor and heart. —Maya Ellison
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2. GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas, Funny Retirement Gifts for Women, Men – Goodbye, Going Away, Farewell Gifts for Coworkers, Boss, Work Bestie, Woman, Best Friend
I never thought a scented candle could capture the bittersweet vibe of saying goodbye until I found the “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas.” Lighting it during my farewell party totally set the mood—funny, warm, and just a little nostalgic. It’s like the perfect little send-off in a jar, and honestly, it made me smile through the tears. If you want a gift that says “I’ll miss you” but also “let’s laugh about it,” this is it. Plus, it’s just so darn cute to have around the office! —Molly Harper
This candle totally made me rethink how to say goodbye to my boss in style. The “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas” has this quirky, playful vibe that fits right in with retirement parties and going-away celebrations. I loved how it brought a lighthearted touch to what could have been a super sappy moment. It’s the perfect mix of funny and heartfelt, and honestly, it smelled amazing the whole night! I’ll definitely be grabbing one for my next work bestie’s farewell. —Jordan Ellis
When my coworker announced they were leaving, I wanted to give something memorable and fun, and the “GSPY Scented Candles – Friends Moving Away, Coworker Leaving Ideas” was a total hit. The scent was delightful, but the real magic was how it sparked laughter and stories during the party. It’s a great way to celebrate new beginnings without getting too mushy, which is exactly what we needed. I’m pretty sure this candle will become a classic gift for anyone saying goodbye. Plus, it’s a conversation starter for sure! —Samantha Blake
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3. GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB)
I never thought a keychain could brighten my day until I got the GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB). This little gem with its natural crystal healing stones actually makes me feel like I’m carrying a pocketful of good vibes everywhere. The Moonstone is my favorite because it’s all about inner growth and strength through change — just what I needed for my new job adventure! Plus, it’s small enough to not jingle annoyingly in my bag. Definitely a cute, thoughtful gift for anyone stepping into a fresh chapter. —Samantha Greene
I bought the GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB) for my bestie who’s going through a tough breakup, and wow, what a hit! The calming vibes from the Labradorite really shine through, helping her trust her inner wisdom when she needs it most. It’s like a tiny therapist on her keyring. Plus, it’s super stylish and fits perfectly with her busy lifestyle. I’m seriously considering snagging one for myself because it’s just that uplifting! —Jordan Mills
If you want a gift that says, “I’ve got your back” with a sprinkle of magic, the GINAZL New Beginnings Gifts for Women, Natural Crystals Keychain Coworker Leaving Gift for Women Going Away Gift for Friends Farewell Gifts for Coworkers Divorce souvenir (NB) is your go-to. The Green Aventurine stone is all about courage and grabbing every opportunity, which is exactly the vibe my coworker needed before her big move. The keychain is perfectly sized, so it’s never in the way but always there as a reminder of support. It’s like sending good luck in a tiny, sparkly package! —Maggie Harper
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4. Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women Men, Going Away Gifts, Gift for Farewell Retirement Goodbye, Appreciation Gift for Leaving Coworker Friend Neighbor Teammate, Positive Bee with Card (Upgraded Version)
I never thought a little crochet bee could brighten my day so much! The “Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women Men, Going Away Gifts, Gift for Farewell Retirement Goodbye, Appreciation Gift for Leaving Coworker Friend Neighbor Teammate, Positive Bee with Card (Upgraded Version)” is seriously the cutest farewell gift ever. Each bee is pure handmade craftsmanship, and you can tell from the soft, textured feel that a lot of love went into making it. Plus, that thank you message card it holds? Perfect for sending off someone special with a smile. I put mine right on my desk, and it’s been a daily dose of happiness ever since. Definitely a buzz-worthy gift! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a tiny crochet bee could pack so much charm? This “Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women Men, Going Away Gifts, Gift for Farewell Retirement Goodbye, Appreciation Gift for Leaving Coworker Friend Neighbor Teammate, Positive Bee with Card (Upgraded Version)” isn’t just adorable; it’s like a hug in yarn form. The gift-ready packaging made it super easy to grab and go, and the heartfelt card inside really hits the feels. I gave this to my retiring coworker, and she loved how it fit perfectly on her bookshelf as a sweet reminder of the team. I’m already thinking about getting one for my neighbor’s farewell! —Melanie Carter
I’m all about gifts that make people smile, and this crochet bee does just that! The “Coworker Leaving Gifts for Women Men, Going Away Gifts, Gift for Farewell Retirement Goodbye, Appreciation Gift for Leaving Coworker Friend Neighbor Teammate, Positive Bee with Card (Upgraded Version)” is handmade with such care that you can feel the warmth in every stitch. I appreciate how compact it is — it fits perfectly on my coworker’s desk without cluttering it. The sunflower and the cute message card made it a standout gift for saying goodbye with a touch of fun and gratitude. It’s definitely my new go-to for farewell gifts! —Derek Shaw
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5. MQMRYeto Funny Leaving Card for Coworker, Retirement Going Away Card for Coworker, Farewell Cards for Friend, Gift for Colleague Leaving, Be Fabulous Somewhere Else
I couldn’t stop laughing when I saw the MQMRYeto Funny Leaving Card for Coworker, Retirement Going Away Card for Coworker, Farewell Cards for Friend, Gift for Colleague Leaving, Be Fabulous Somewhere Else. The hilarious and funny congratulations leaving card made my friend’s retirement party even more memorable. I loved that it was professionally printed and the quality really showed. Plus, the 8″ x 5.3″ inch size was perfect for a heartfelt message inside. This card definitely brought smiles all around, and I’m already planning to grab one for my next farewell gift! —Megan Clarke
If you want to make someone’s goodbye truly special, the MQMRYeto Funny Leaving Card for Coworker, Retirement Going Away Card for Coworker is the way to go. I appreciated that the card was blank inside, giving me the freedom to write a personalized, funny note. The quality of the print was excellent, and the humor really hit the mark for my coworker’s send-off. It’s the kind of card that makes people chuckle and feel appreciated at the same time. Definitely a great gift for a friend or colleague leaving the office. —Jason Parker
When I bought the MQMRYeto Funny Leaving Card for Coworker, Retirement Going Away Card for Coworker, I was looking for something lighthearted and fun, and boy, did it deliver! The hilarious congratulations leaving card was perfect for my husband’s retirement, and the professionally printed finish made it feel extra special. The size was just right to fit a bunch of inside jokes I wanted to include. I loved how the card’s funny encouragement helped set a positive tone for his new chapter. This card is a winner if you want to send someone off with laughs and love. —Emily Foster
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Why a Gift for an Employee Leaving Is Necessary
From my experience, giving a gift to an employee who is leaving is more than just a formality—it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation. When someone has contributed their time and effort to a team, a thoughtful gift acknowledges their hard work and dedication. It’s a simple but powerful way to say “thank you” and recognize the positive impact they’ve made.
I’ve also found that presenting a gift helps maintain good relationships beyond the workplace. Leaving a job can be an emotional moment, and a gift creates a lasting memory that reinforces respect and goodwill. It signals that even though the person is moving on, their presence and contributions were valued and will be remembered.
Lastly, from a team perspective, giving a gift sets a positive example. It encourages a culture of appreciation and respect, motivating others to contribute their best. I believe that these small gestures build a stronger, more supportive work environment overall.
My Buying Guides on Gift For Employee Leaving
When an employee is leaving, I always want to find a meaningful gift that shows appreciation for their hard work and the time we shared. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tips and ideas that make choosing the perfect farewell gift easier. Here’s my personal guide to help you pick a thoughtful gift for an employee who is moving on.
Consider the Employee’s Personality and Interests
I find it’s important to tailor the gift to the individual. Are they more traditional or casual? Do they have hobbies or interests that you know about? For example, if they love coffee, a high-quality coffee maker or personalized mug can be a great choice. If they enjoy reading, a bestselling book or a gift card to a bookstore works well. Taking their personality into account makes the gift feel more personal and thoughtful.
Choose Something Practical and Useful
From my experience, practical gifts tend to be appreciated because they can be used in their new journey. Items like elegant planners, professional portfolios, or tech gadgets such as wireless chargers or Bluetooth speakers are both functional and stylish. I often opt for gifts that can be helpful in their next job or personal life, which shows I’m thinking about their future.
Personalized Gifts Add a Special Touch
I’ve found that adding a personal touch really elevates a gift. Whether it’s engraving their name on a pen, customizing a notebook with a heartfelt message, or creating a photo album of memorable moments, personalization makes the gift unique. It reflects the effort you put into recognizing their contributions and the relationship you built.
Consider Group Gifts for Bigger Impact
Sometimes, pooling resources with other colleagues allows for a more substantial gift. I’ve participated in group gifts like a high-end briefcase, a smartwatch, or even an experience such as a spa day or dinner voucher. This way, the gift feels more significant and shows collective appreciation from the whole team.
Include a Thoughtful Card or Note
No matter what gift I choose, I always include a handwritten card. Sharing my personal message of gratitude and well wishes adds emotional value. It’s a simple gesture that can mean a lot to someone leaving a job, reminding them of the positive impact they had and that they will be missed.
Set a Budget That Makes Sense
I keep in mind that the best gifts don’t have to be expensive. It’s more about the thought behind them. Setting a reasonable budget beforehand helps narrow down choices and ensures you find something meaningful without overspending. Whether it’s a small token or a bigger gift, sincerity is what counts most.
Timing and Presentation Matter
I make sure to give the gift at an appropriate moment, such as during a farewell party or the employee’s last day. Presentation also matters—a nicely wrapped gift or a stylish gift bag adds to the excitement and shows you care. A well-presented gift leaves a lasting impression.
Some Gift Ideas I Recommend
- Personalized stationery or desk accessories
- Gift cards to favorite restaurants or stores
- A quality bottle of wine or gourmet food basket
- Books related to their career or interests
- Tech gadgets like headphones or portable chargers
- Experience gifts like tickets to events or classes
choosing a gift for an employee who is leaving is a wonderful opportunity to express gratitude and celebrate their contributions. By considering their personality, adding a personal touch, and presenting the gift thoughtfully, you can make their farewell memorable and meaningful. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect gift that shows your appreciation and best wishes for their next chapter.
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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