There are many corporate occasions that call for just the right gift. Although winter holidays tend to be the most common, individual gifts can be given throughout the year for such occasions as wedding or new baby, retirement or welcome aboard. Choosing a nice gift for wedding or baby is less difficult given the obvious theme, but choosing a gift for holidays or as a welcome or thank-you gift can be challenging. The most appreciated is that which is both useful and in some way meaningful. Of course, meaningful depends on how well you know the recipient, but at the very least you should a choose a gift that is of high quality and unexpected. It will be appreciated and remembered for a long time after.

Top 5 picks for corporate gift giving:

1) Art piece for home or office - This can vary depending on your budget and relationship with the recipient, but an artistic crystal vase, paper weight, or bottle stopper makes a statement with impact. Choose a design, style or color that matches the likes or interests of the recipient, and if you're uncertain choose something simple but elegant.

2) Gourmet boxed chocolates or quality wine - Wine, chocolates or both makes a great and memorable gift as long as it fits 3 criteria. First, you know the recipient enjoys wine or chocolates or both. Don't assume that everyone does. Second, choose only good quality. Be sure of quality either from your own experience or from a reputable recommendation. Third, consider time of year. Don't send chocolates or wine if they cannot hold up to the weather. 

3) Useful gift for the home - Everyone can always use certain items for home such as coasters, small decorative platters for entertaining, kitchen gadget sets, etc. Again, if you know the recipient well, choose accordingly. The more personal your gift is, the more memorable it will be.

4) Special interest gift - If you know your recipient is into golf, gardening, or gourmet cooking, choose a themed gift matching their interests. 

5) Useful gift for office - Desk accessories, quality pen set, portfolio, or tote. These are all great ideas for gifts they will find useful. The most important factor here is quality. If the item is cheap, it will end up in a drawer never to be seen again!