Choosing a retirement gift for your boss that will show the value they added to the workplace, as well as your appreciation for their dedication, is a tall order for a milestone that deserves to be celebrated – and we’re here to give you all the best ideas!
To make the task easier, consider a meaningful and personalized present to ensure they embark on this new journey feeling valued and cherished. Your thoughtful gift will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on this significant chapter in their life.
Here are our top three gift ideas for your boss:
- A Collaborative Retirement Memory Book from Newlywords
- A Gift Basket (keep reading for specific options)
- A humorous whiskey set or timeless leather journal
Keep reading for many more options for at-home and travel items, funny gifts, ideas for men and women, and items for every budget!
Considerations Before Buying A Gift For Your Boss
When buying a retirement gift for your boss, we know your budget is an important consideration. Finding a gift that isn’t cliche, but that is affordable is possible, which is why we have something for every budget that is sure to stand out with the perfect balance of sentimentality and fun, because retirement is a mix of both!
You’ll also need to consider what to get for your boss that reflects their personality and hobbies. Whether or not you already have a good idea of these, finding a memorable gift that will be cherished for years to come can be tough; whether you know your boss well or not, this list will give you ideas to find something unique they’ll be sure to treasure.
What To Say To A Retiring Boss
“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” -Mother Teresa
Your gift will speak for itself, but won’t say everything that you want to say to your boss. Wishing them well in their next chapter, thanking them for their dedication, and letting them know they made a difference, in words, are what will stick with them. “It’s the thought that counts” goes the extra mile when you put those thoughts into writing.
You can make your message sentimental, humorous, or celebratory, depending on your boss’s personality and your relationship with them. Here are some ideas to get you started on crafting the perfect message:
- Share a favorite memory.
- Let them know they made a difference to you and/or the workplace (did they touch lives, always have the best ideas, or were they a great manager that will be missed?).
- Encourage them to relax like it’s their job, focus on their own dreams and passions, or whatever they need or want to do now that they’re retired, knowing they’ll put their work ethic into different things since they’ll never stop being active and “working”.
- Let them know you still want to see them, whether it’s outside of the workplace or to stop by and say hi at work.
- Let them know their influence lives on in the workplace and that they’ll be remembered for a long time to come.
- Joke that they can call and pretend to boss you around if they miss it too much.
- Congratulate them and send them off into retirement wishing them well.
55 Unique Retirement Gifts Ideas For Your Boss
We’ve collected a list of gifts for any type of boss to give for their retirement, and we’ve separated these ideas into categories. First, we’ll give our top universal ideas, and then go into specifics so you can find the best gift possible!
Top Ideas For Any Boss
1. Retirement Memory Book
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | funny or not | anywhere
“Good words are worth much, and cost little.” -George Herbert
Make a collaborative retirement memory book with thoughts and photos from yourself and others for the perfect gift that will be opened throughout the years. Gather messages from friends, family and coworkers through email and other methods and have them sent to your collection page, then personalize and edit the book to finish. Your boss will get a sentimental gift that they can look at whenever they feel nostalgic, and that they can show off to others. People remember how you make them feel more than anything, and words and photos will make them feel cared for every time they open a memory book.
2. Book Set
Perfect for: All genders | funny or not | anywhere
One thing all retirees can appreciate is expert advice on how to retire wisely and how to make their savings and investments work. Make a set of books to help with this, travel books and funny retirement books.
3. Thank You Gift Basket
Perfect for: All genders | at home
This gift basket with customizable items includes a custom wine tumbler, succulent, and candle in a retirement-themed box. For some reason, getting custom-wrapped boxes and getting to unwrap the box to find more than one item is extra exciting, making this an excellent (and affordable) idea.
4. Food Gift Basket
Perfect for: All genders | at home
Gift baskets are always a great idea, especially when they include food like fruit, popcorn, charcuterie, candy and wine. If you’re looking for a perfect retirement gift, this is it – your boss can have some snacks to share as they continue to celebrate. Make sure you take any food allergies or sensitivities into account.
5. Paperwhite Reader
Perfect for: All genders | anywhere
Books are great, but not easy to carry around, not great for low lit places, and not waterproof – all things a Kindle Paperwhite reader is! Whether you boss will be traveling or sitting at home, an e-reader will give them a way to carry their favorite books anywhere. The screen lighting can even be adjusted to warm light, and text can be made bigger or smaller. Plus, they’re made with recycled materials and packaging.
6. Everyday Tote Bag
Perfect for: All genders | funny or not | anywhere
A great all-around, anytime gift is a durable tote bag, and the personalization plus retirement text keeps this one from being boring while making it perfect for the occasion. Your (former) boss can carry belongings fashionably while showing off their new retirement status!
7. Online Masterclass Gift
Perfect for: All genders | anywhere
Celebrate the retiree’s love for lifelong learning with the gift of a Masterclass subscription. This thoughtful retirement present provides access to a diverse range of online courses taught by world-renowned experts in various fields. Whether they have a passion for cooking, writing, photography, or any other interest, a Masterclass subscription offers a unique opportunity to continue personal and professional development in the comfort of their own home. With an extensive library of high-quality, on-demand lessons, the retiree can explore new skills, gain insights from industry leaders, and embark on a journey of continuous learning, making this subscription a truly enriching and meaningful gift for their next chapter in life.
8. Gift Card for Buying Something Special
Perfect for: All genders | anywhere
A gift card is always a great gift idea; it says, “I want you to buy something you want or need, on me, because I appreciate you”. Whether it’s a gift card to a place where people can buy almost anything, to something more specific to them like a favorite boutique or restaurant, a gift card goes a long way. Just make sure to include a card with a thoughtful note.
Top Ideas For The At-Home Retiree
Retirement doesn’t mean your boss will be at home all the time, but they will be spending some time at home – probably more than they’re used to! So, here are our best gifts to make that at-home time even more enjoyable:
9. Tea Infuser
Perfect for: All genders | tea drinkers | at home
Being retired, your tea-loving boss will have more time to make better tea with a loose-leaf tea infuser since they’re not rushing to work.
10. Unique CINGUE Candle
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | self-care | at home
Express your gratitude to your retiring boss with this candle that has a unique, heartfelt message on it. This candle is elegantly packaged in a personalized frosted glass jar, making it a perfect present for any occasion, from retirements to farewells. The lavender fresh scent, created with natural soy wax and a cotton wick, offers up to approximately 50 hours of soothing self-care sanctuary, ensuring a safe, clean, and long-lasting burn. Show your appreciation with this thoughtful and fragrant gift that speaks volumes without saying a word.
11. Champagne Gift Basket
Perfect for: Female bosses | self-care | at home
Gift something that says, “you deserve to relax!” In a big, bold way with a Champagne gift basket. You can choose ones that include chocolates, fruit and more items to personalize it for your boss!
12. Spa Gift Basket
Perfect for: Female bosses | self-care | at home
Celebrate her well-deserved retirement with this carefully curated spa gift basket, the perfect retirement gift for women. This exclusive set is designed to provide ultimate relaxation, featuring a 20oz insulated stainless steel coffee tumbler, a pure handmade diamond soap, a bath bomb, bath salt, and a soy candle, all wrapped in a high-quality reusable gift box with a delicate dried flowers greeting card. The unboxing experience is unforgettable and is sure to impress her at first sight, making her feel pampered and appreciated as she begins her new chapter. With a 100% happiness guarantee, this unique retirement gift is a thoughtful way to show her that she deserves nothing short of the best in her retirement years!
13. Personalized Thank You Coffee Mug
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | funny or not | at home
A custom mug can include a funny or sentimental quote, and even a name or initials. Make sure your boss can wake up and drink coffee from a mug that reminds them that they’re missed, how lucky they are to be retired, or whatever else to add a boost to their day!
14. Personalized Cufflinks
Perfect for: Male bosses | sentimental or not | jewelry | anywhere
Personalized cufflinks like these are one of the best gifts for male bosses who appreciate style! You can choose from various sizes and shapes, and you can include initials, photos and more!
15. Motivational Leather Journal
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental or not | self-care | anywhere
Inspire greatness in your leader with this leather notebook adorned with the motivational quote, “Great leaders inspire greatness in others.” This thoughtful gift is perfect for expressing appreciation to your female or male boss, PM, lead, director, mentor, or team leader. This compact notebook is easy to carry, making it ideal for daily writing and life planning during travels or vacations. Crafted from high-quality leather with an antique and rustic appearance, the notebook exudes a timeless charm. Each notebook comes elegantly packaged in a high-quality box, ready for gift giving, ensuring a lasting and meaningful token of gratitude.
16. Art Painting Set
Perfect for: All genders | creativity & hobbies | at home
If you already know your boss is an art lover, or if you have a feeling they’ll have a knack for it, consider this art painting set for a new hobby. Even if they give it up quickly, this can be re-gifted to grandkids. Either way, it’ll give them a new adventure!
17. Digital Wifi Picture Frame
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | funny or not | at home
A digital photo frame with wifi is perfect for updating pictures of friends, grandkids and family, pets and vacations. This one has a touchscreen as well so it’s easy to use. Keep your retiree’s photos easy to show off while being up-to-date!
18. Rocking Massage Chair
Perfect for: All genders | self-care | at home
This rocking massage recliner has a full-body massage feature with controllable levels, is self-heating and power reclining, rocks, and includes cup and magazine holders for the ultimate relaxation station.
19. Cutting Board
Perfect for: Female bosses | sentimental | at home
This beautiful and useful recipe holder cutting board is a thoughtful gift for retirees who love cooking. The simple and smart design features a rustic cutting board look with a clear acrylic stand, providing a convenient way to hold recipe binder books and tablets while keeping recipes open and visible. The smart size and perforated handle allow for easy storage as a home decor item when not in use. Crafted from unique pine wood with individual grain patterns, the stand showcases the theme “Recipe for a great retirement.”
20. Personalized Decorative Heart
Perfect for: Female bosses | sentimental | at home
A mini wood heart with a personalized message alongside “The best is yet to come” will remind your boss that your thoughts are with them. This one comes with an easel to stand it up so it makes a versatile decor piece. This one is especially fitting for female bosses who appreciate a sentimental gift.
21. Thank You Cuff Bracelet
Perfect for: Female bosses | sentimental | funny or not | jewelry | anywhere
Show your boss your appreciation in words engraved on a stainless steel jewelry cuff bracelet, another great option for female bosses. This one is lead and nickel-free so it works on sensitive skin. It’s great for anyone who wears jewelry and isn’t too picky about what they wear. If you’re unsure about it, ask friends or family of theirs or simply include a gift receipt!
22. Wine Tumbler: Thank you for being Awesome
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | at home
Show your retiring boss how awesome they are with this stainless steel wine tumbler that literally says it. Each time they go to sip their wine, they’ll feel appreciated. This is perfect for the wine-loving boss, and it can be used at home and on outings, so it may be something they don’t already own.
23. Leather Gratitude Trinket Dish
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | jewelry | at home
A customizable leather trinket dish is a useful gift that will keep your message on it, so each time your retiree sees it, he or she will be reminded of the difference they made or whatever nice thing you have engraved each time they pick up earrings or keys.
24. Gardening Tools Bag Set
Perfect for: All genders | hobbies | at home
If your boss is going to be continuing or taking up gardening, an all-in-one gardening tools set is a great idea. This one has rust free tools with ergonomic handles to be easily used by gardeners of any age, and includes a premium storage bag. If they’re more of an indoor person, an indoor herb gardening starter kit could be a great alternative.
25. Personalized Grill Set
Perfect for: All genders | at home
A personalized grill set will allow your grill-loving boss to grill to their heart’s content! This is an 11-piece bamboo set with a stainless steel spatula that includes a bottle opener, a BBQ fork, brush, knife, tongs, glove, skewers and a case, so your boss will have everything they need to invite you over for dinner!
26. Engraved Whiskey Glass
Perfect for: All genders | funny or not | at home
This engraved personalizable whiskey glass is made with a wide base for swirling to enhance the aroma and a narrow top so the aromas can better reach the nose, which any whiskey lover will appreciate.
27. Personalized Insulated Bamboo Water Bottle
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | funny or not | at home
Personalize an insulated, lightweight water bottle for your boss that they can use to keep drinks hot or cold all day. These are made with 100% organic bamboo exterior and BPA-free, food-grade stainless steel interior and include a leak-proof lid. You can add your retiring boss’s name, initials or a special message so they can associate the bottle with great memories.
28. Meditation Cushion Set
Perfect for: All genders | self-care | at home
This high-quality meditation cushion set, made from buckwheat, is good for sitting and will aid your (former) boss in their new, or old, practice of zen.
29. Wine Tool Kit
Perfect for: All genders | wine-lovers | at home
This wine tool kit is perfect for any wine lover, and for retirees who now have the time to spend fully enjoying their wines.
30. Cocktail Club Membership
Perfect for: All genders | cocktail-drinkers | at home
Give your retiring boss a membership to Shaker & Spoon cocktail club, where they get boxes in the mail to make their own cocktails. You can give anywhere from 1 month to a year, so it’s a great option for any budget!
Top Ideas For The Jet-Setting Retiree
If your boss really isn’t the settling down type and they’re planning to spend their retirement traveling and being on the go, here are the best gifts to consider:
31. A Really Nice Watch
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental or not | jewelry | anywhere
A really nice watch, like this Michael Kors gold watch, is a classy retirement gift that will show you want your boss to retire in style. Even though they don’t have to punch a clock anymore, they’ll still need to have a way to know what time to meet a friend for fishing or shopping, watch grandkids, volunteer or catch that flight to Bermuda!
32. Daypack for Traveling
Perfect for: All genders | useful | travel
For the boss who’s going to travel in retirement, a day pack is a must, like this daypack that folds into a pouch for easy packing and for all kinds of outdoor weather conditions (it’s perfect for hikers and outdoor-lovers!). Another choice is this stylish leather daypack that can double as a carry-on. Think about your boss’s personal style and gift accordingly!
33. Complete Golf Set
Perfect for: All genders | hobbies | golfers
For the golf-loving boss, retirement is sure to include many afternoons on the green. Gift them a golf set to send them off in style, and so that you can meet them on the golf course for many work-free, relaxing golf sessions in the future.
34. Trekking Poles
Perfect for: All genders | outdoors & hobbies | travel
Embrace the retiree’s spirit of adventure with a thoughtful gift of trekking poles, an ideal companion for their future travels. These durable and adjustable poles provide stability and support during hikes, making outdoor exploration more enjoyable. Perfect for retirees who love to explore nature, trekking poles enhance balance and reduce strain on joints, ensuring a comfortable and safe hiking experience. Compact and lightweight, they are easy to pack for any travel adventure. Give the gift of enhanced mobility and support for the retiree’s new journey, making each step of their exploration more enjoyable and memorable.
35. Mavic Air Drone
Perfect for: All genders | hobbies | anywhere
Maybe your boss is already a photographer or video fiend, but even if not, a Mavic Air drone can make for an excellent new hobby that can be done at home or while traveling! It can help them bond with family and friends and be the talk of every social event.
36. Noise-canceling Headphones
Perfect for: All genders | useful | self-care | anywhere
Noise-canceling headphones are the perfect gift for planes, trains and sometimes even hotel rooms that are in populated city areas. This high-quality pair has 22-40 hours of battery life, perfect for long flights or road trips.
37. GoPro Camera
Perfect for: All genders | hobbies | anywhere
For all travel-aspiring retirees, a GoPro is an excellent choice. It can be used anywhere, even underwater, and is small and easy to carry. This one comes with the newest features and high durability. Photos and videos can be automatically uploaded to the cloud for easy sharing.
38. 100 Things to Do Bucket List
Perfect for: All genders | hobbies | goals | anywhere
Not every retiree knows exactly what they want to do with their new time, but even for those who do, a scratch-off bucket list is an excellent way to add some fun! Each time they accomplish something, they can scratch off the square for a picture. Plus, whenever they need a new idea, there’s plenty on this list!
39. Personalized Travel Duffle Bag
Perfect for: All genders | useful | anywhere
A classy, durable personalized duffle bag is an excellent idea for travelers and gym-goers. A high-quality duffle with personalization will definitely be appreciated.
40. US National Parks Pass
Perfect for: All genders | hobbies | travel
The US National Parks Pass is good for a whole year, good for a family of up to 4 people, and allows entry to 2,000 federal recreation sites. This will save your boss money on entrance fees, and give ideas for where to travel!
41. US National Parks Passport Book
Perfect for: All genders | hobbies | travel
Go above and beyond for retirees who love National Parks with this Collector’s Edition Passport Book and Leather Cover! This beautifully crafted passport book is the perfect companion for their post-retirement adventures, allowing them to document and cherish their visits to the stunning landscapes and wonders of the National Parks. The premium leather cover adds a touch of elegance and durability, ensuring this collector’s item becomes a cherished keepsake for the retiree’s exploration of the great outdoors. Encourage them to embark on a new chapter of discovery and create lasting memories with this thoughtful and stylish gift.
42. Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Perfect for: All genders | useful | anywhere
Make sure your boss retires with a way to entertain themselves now that they won’t be spending all their time at work, and that they can hear well even though their hearing may not be as good as it used to be, with a portable waterproof bluetooth speaker. Whether they’re playing music, watching movies, or listening to a podcast in the shower, they’ll appreciate this gift that makes retired life easier.
43. Personalizable Leather Hanging Toiletry Bag
Perfect for: All genders | useful | travel
Whether they’re going to be jet-setting around the globe or just making the occasional trip to see grandkids, a leather hanging toiletry bag is an elegant retirement gift that your boss will use every time they pack. This one can be personalized and comes gift-boxed. Make sure your boss isn’t vegan before gifting, and consider adding leather conditioner to the gift.
44. Beer Cap Map
Perfect for: All genders | beer-lovers | hobbies | travel
If your boss is a beer-lover, make sure they have motivation to travel and drink the best beer with a map-shaped wall decoration that they can collect beer bottle caps on based on region or just for fun, shaped like their state or country of choice, and then have to show off to others and to recognize their achievement – what better way to celebrate retirement?
45. Travel Hammock
Perfect for: All genders | self-care | anywhere
What says “I’m retired” more than a hammock? Eno is one of the best brands out there and can be used for camping or just hanging out and relaxing, enjoying the weather and new opportunities found only in retirement!
46. Portable Vinyl Player
Perfect for: All genders | hobbies | anywhere
Most record players are pretty large, so get your boss one they can take with them on the go to dance to or just make sure they can play background music in style with a portable vinyl player like this one. They can record their vinyl using this player to a flash drive, and they can play records from the flash drive on this player as well, so it’s the ultimate for portability whether or not they take all their records along!
Top Funny Retirement Gifts For Your Boss
If your boss has a sense of humor and appreciates fun gifts, here are some great ideas – these also work if you’re on a budget!
47. Out of Business Cards
Perfect for: All genders | funny | anywhere
Give your boss a funny gift that they can use to make others laugh too with a funny set of out-of-business cards. This is an extra-fun gift for any retiring boss who loves humor!
48. Retirement Toilet Paper
Perfect for: All genders | funny | at home
Another excellent funny gift idea is retirement (toilet) papers – your boss can actually use this paper, but obviously the main thing is the laugh they’ll get out of it if they have a good sense of humor!
49. Handmade Caricature and/or Portrait Painting
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | funny or not | at home
A handmade portrait or caricature can be hung on the wall, but also can be used in other ways. If you’re throwing a party, consider getting this printed on party favors and/or the cake. Make sure you get this gift from a talented artist so that it looks tasteful. My family did this for my grandfather, and we even had it printed on wooden nickels for his 80th birthday party later on!
50. Funny “Smells Like It’s Not Your Problem Anymore” Candle
Perfect for: All genders | funny | self-care | at home
Celebrate the joy of retirement with this humorous candle, featuring a hilarious saying that guarantees a smile for the retiring individual, be it a coworker, friend, family member, or boss. The unique gift is perfect for various occasions, offering a fresh floral scent with lavender and eucalyptus notes to set a comfortable mood. Made with soy wax and a cotton wick, this clean and long-lasting burning candle provides approximately 50 hours of enjoyment. Housed in a sturdy glass jar with a metal lid, the black-and-white design adds a touch of novelty and makes it a creative home decor item, ensuring a memorable and funny gift for the retiree.
51. Funny Retirement Decider Dice Set
Perfect for: All genders | funny | anywhere
Add a playful touch to retirement celebrations with this funny metal decider dice set, a delightful gift offering humorous actions and decisions, making it an amusing retirement gift for women and men alike. The sturdy stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the deep engraving with strong ink guarantees long-lasting enjoyment. Packaged in a specialized box for easy gifting, this high-quality dice set is a unique and entertaining way to celebrate the joy of retirement with friends, coworkers, or loved ones.
52. Happy Retirement Wine Glass
Perfect for: All genders | wine-lovers| funny or not | at home
There’s nothing like celebrating retirement and being able to relax in style. For wine lovers, a funny retirement wine glass (like this one that says, “I can wine all I want, I’m retired”) will let them feel the joy of retirement wash over them each time they sip their favorite wine!
53. Officially Retired T-Shirt
Perfect for: All genders | sentimental | funny or not | anywhere
Make sure your boss can properly flaunt their new retirement status with a funny retirement t-shirt so they can announce it to the world as they travel or go about town, finally not having to dress up for work every day.
54. Retired Beer Can Coolers
Perfect for: All genders | beer-lovers | funny or not | anywhere
For all the festivals, cookouts, beach days, camping and more, neoprene beer can coolers are an excellent way to commemorate the retirement of a beloved boss and know they’ll be fully enjoying their new lifestyle, in style!
55. Funny “The Legend Has Retired” Whiskey Set
Perfect for: All genders | whiskey-lovers | funny | at home
This full package whiskey gift set features a handmade wooden box, a thick-based 11oz whisky glass, a slate coaster, 4 natural granite stones, and a small gift card. Delivered in a delicately designed gift package, this set is adorned with a unique limited edition logo, including the milestone whisky glass with the amusing “2024 The Legend Has Retired” sign.
Retirement Gifts For Bosses: FAQs
What Makes A Great Retirement Gift?
More retirees now, more than ever before, are deciding to live life to the fullest with new adventures, and your boss probably has some sweet retirement goals they’re looking forward to pursuing. If you know them well enough, consider their hobbies and personality when getting them a gift; even if not, this list will also give you some options you can’t go wrong with for the best retirement gifts to mark a moment this momentous!
Should you buy your boss a retirement gift?
Yes, giving your boss a retirement gift is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their guidance and leadership.
What is the best farewell gift for your boss?
The best farewell gift for your boss could be a personalized item, like a classy leather journal or a funny whiskey set, or a group gift they’ll treasure forever, like a Newlywords Retirement Collaborative Memory Book.
What is a classic retirement gift?
A classic retirement gift often includes items like a beautiful watch, a stylish pen, or a quality leather item, tailored to the retiree’s preferences.
What to do for my boss’s retirement?
For your boss’s retirement, consider organizing a farewell party, writing a heartfelt card, or giving a meaningful gift that reflects their interests.
Should I give gifts to coworkers when leaving a job?
Giving gifts to coworkers when leaving a job is a nice gesture, and it’s the thought that counts. Consider small, meaningful tokens of appreciation.
How much should I spend on my boss’s retirement gift?
The spending on your boss’s retirement gift depends on your relationship and budget, but a thoughtful and personalized gift is often more valuable than its cost.
How do you say happy retirement to your boss?
Say “happy retirement” to your boss with a sincere message, a small gift, or a thoughtful card expressing your gratitude for their leadership.
Conclusion: Best Retirement Gift Ideas For Your Boss
Retirement is an achievement worth celebrating, and when it’s your boss, getting a gift that represents your relationship, your gratitude and more is no easy task.
We’re a bit biased at Newlywords, so our favorite gift we recommend is our Collaborative Retirement Memory Books that you can easily get people to send photos, memories and more to create, that any retiree will be able to pick up for years on end and remember cherished moments!
Chào mọi người, mình là admin của getnicegift.com. Blog của mình chuyên làm các nội dung về reivew sản phẩm….