We often hear about the different gifting traditions unique to various families, but when it comes to the workplace, gifting can be more complex. The biggest question is: "Do I need to buy everyone in the office a gift?" In many workplaces this problem is solved for us. By having an organized Secret Santa or a set budget limit, the burden of "who to gift and how much to spend" is lifted.

When choosing a gift for a colleague, the most important aspects to keep in mind are the cost, the degree to which the gift is personal, and the business relationship.

Cost: As with any other gift, it's important to stick within your budget. If your office has set a dollar limit, respect it. This is the time to be creative with your choice of gift, not to try to outspend your coworkers. Humor is great, but be careful not to choose a gift that could be off-color, risqué, or racially or religiously offensive.

Personal: It is okay if you choose to give a gift to a particular co-worker or to your assistant, just do so discreetly. The guideline to follow here is to choose a gift that is thoughtful but not too personal. Consider the person's interest and hobbies. Maybe a nice desk diary would help keep them organized at work, or maybe they would prefer a gift certificate to try a new restaurant in town. Gifts that might be too personal? A bouquet of red roses, cologne, sleepwear, or lingerie.

Business Relationship: Though not a strict rule, it is generally not advisable to give a gift to your boss. The middle ground between not giving a gift and giving an individual one is to present your boss with a joint gift from a group of employees within the company. This shows appreciation and gratitude from many employees, and doesn't come across as you trying to please the boss. If sending gifts to other clients, check with their HR department to see if gifts are allowed, or if there is a dollar limit. It's safe to opt for something that can be consumed, such as chocolates, cheeses, or fruit, so all the employees at the other company can enjoy the benefit. If sending a gift with your company logo, be careful not to use this opportunity solely for advertising. Keep your logo tasteful and present but not overbearing.

The holiday season can often be an expensive time. Remember that the purpose of giving a gift is to signify the message that "our relationship is important." If you choose to make your own candies or buy the same gift in varying colors for your co-workers, at the end of the day it is the thought that counts.

With stores abuzz and things to do, keep in mind these top three tips for gift giving this holiday season!

1. Stay within your budget.

Amidst the excitement of the holiday season, sometimes the pressure to give the perfect thing is overwhelming and ends in purchasing gifts that may be pushing your budget. The rule of thumb: Be respectful of your own spending limits. While it's nice to be generous, you will feel much better giving a gift that you can actually afford. Keep in mind that over-the-top gifts can also be overwhelming to the recipient. This leads back to the old saying, "It's the thought that counts," not the price. Sometimes the best gift isn't tied up with a bow, but perhaps instead involves volunteering your time at a local organization. This can be more meaningful than anything that comes with a price tag.

2. Gifts don't have to be reciprocal.

It's pretty simple: Just because someone gives you a gift, does not mean you have to fake "I forgot your gift at home," when, really, they weren't on your list this year. Pressure to make gift giving reciprocal takes away from the gesture and the gratitude that comes with it. If you receive a gift from someone for whom you did not buy a gift, kindly thank him or her for thinking of you, as you would in any other circumstance. At another time you can give a gift to the person, if you wish. Give and receive gifts for the enjoyment of it, not with the expectation of receiving something in return.

3. Receiving gifts.

Receiving a gift is an honor. Someone put time, effort, thought, and creativity into something they thought you would enjoy. That being said, express your gratitude sincerely. If you open the gift in front of the giver, thank them graciously. If the gift was not given in person, it's very important to remember to send a prompt thank-you note. Nothing is worse than sending a gift to someone and wondering if they ever received it. A thank-you note diffuses this worry, while also making the giver feel appreciated.

Sometimes we receive gifts that just aren't right. If something is not what you would have picked out yourself, it's best to keep this to yourself. Don't be dishonest or show fake enthusiasm, but rather show your appreciation for the gesture, "Mary, this is so thoughtful. Thank you!"

Remember, at the end of the day, some of the best gifts are the people and things that surrounded us everyday. Holiday cheer can always be spread more ways than one!