Navigating the holiday gifting season can be more difficult than closing a deal, especially when you’re a small business, because unlike he big guys, you can’t—and shouldn’t—send 500 pens with your logo emblazoned on them to your best clients, business partners, and employees.

“As a boss, I want to do something for my team to thank them for all of their hard work. A time for me to recognize all that they’ve accomplished,” says Elisa Camahort Page, co-founder of BlogHer. “This is also my time to thank clients and partners for their continued support.”

She opts to give gifts that contain an experience. “I try to take my team out for a night on the town or encourage them to take the afternoon off to do something that makes them happy, to spend time with their families.”

When it comes to giving thanks to clients and business partners, food is often the best option, says Dana Schultze, gift guru at Gifts.com. “Most companies have a policy on how much the dollar value of a gift can be, that’s why food is so popular because it’s a gift that can be shared throughout the office,” she says. Whether it’s food or beverages (coffee baskets and tea gifts are also always welcome, wine and liquor tends to work more as a present for the boss), avoid wrapping the gifts in company baskets or something that has the company’s logo on it. “Since this is a time to thank clients for doing business with you, this isn’t the time to shove your business in their face,” says Schultze.

And just because this is a corporate gift doesn’t mean that it can’t have personality, advises Claudia Lombana of PayPal. Nearly everything from golf balls to iPad covers can be personalized with initials or a photo.

When considering what to give, our gift experts say to think about the following:

1. What’s your relationship? If you know the person well, you can give a slightly more personal gift. But lingerie or even a Victoria’s Secret gift card have no place in the office, no matter how well you know someone.
2. If you’re new to the company, ask around about the gift-exchange policy. Don’t feel that you have to gift the boss or co-workers, says Schultze.
3. Gift certificates are a great way to let people choose their own experiences. Check our gift guide for some suggestions.
4. Before you donate to a charity on a boss’, employee’s, or client’s behalf, consider this: Charitable giving is deeply personal, and it can be difficult to find a cause that everyone agrees on. If you must go the charity route, choose a service that allows the recipient to decide who gets the donation.

Remember that the holidays are supposed to be a fun time. So if you own the company, decide whether you’ll have a gift exchange and make it optional. Setting a maximum spending price often ensures that everyone who wants to participate can take part. Sometimes opting for gag gifts all around can make for a fun and stress-free afternoon. And don’t feel pressured to spend a lot of money, or any money. A handwritten card can often convey your thanks and holiday wishes.