Saying thank you to customers and employees is a significant part of every business's marketing plan.  A smart business person knows that whether your sales are on target or not, appreciating those who are critical to your success must not go away.  The holidays are a common time for appreciation and new trends for corporate holiday gifts are continually surfacing. Giving gifts of thanks doesn't have to break your budget.  A thoughtful, useful gift, regardless of the cost, will go a long way with your employees and customers.  Below are some ideas on how to maximize your budget and your brand at holiday gift time.

•    Say Cheers with a wine accessory - Wine is a classic gift that can hit a number of price points.  Pairing a bottle of wine with a logoed item will ensure that your brand is remembered long after the wine is enjoyed.  Wine openers and wine carriers are a great pairing, but the newest trend in wine gifts is laser engraved stemless wine glasses.  Give them on their own or pair them with your favorite bottle.  There are many options in wine accessories starting under $1. Send these to customers or use them as a takeaway from a holiday appreciation event.

•    Make your gift card pop with packaging - If gift cards are the route you are looking to take, make sure to get creative with logoed packaging.  For an inexpensive option, try inserting it into a luggage tag or business card holder.  If you are looking to make a bigger statement, try tucking it into a passport wallet or padfolio. Pairing a gift card with a promotional item helps increase the value and thoughtfulness of the gift.

•    Jump on the tech craze - Technology and electronic items make great appreciation gifts.  Digital photo frames and computer speakers are hot, but they can be a bit pricey.  If you want something a little less expensive with the same impact, consider a Smartphone, iPad, or iPod accessory.  Skins, covers and cases come in multiple colors, make a big impression and are easy on the wallet.

•    Encourage comfort with a blanket - Any time you can bring your logo into someone's home, your brand recall rate skyrockets.  Blankets are a perfect universal gift to get you into the home.  With classic embroidery and colors and styles at many price points, there is sure to be one that will highlight your brand perfectly.

•    Bring back memories with a photo frame - A photo frame has many uses as a gift.  Insert an invitation to your holiday party, create a fun thank you insert, or include a photo from a recent event.  You can get creative with ideas for using a photo frame as a gift for customers or employees.  Be sure to find a frame that fits the style of your company and accentuates your brand.

Whatever you decide to do for your holiday gifts, make sure to include a logoed item to keep your business name top of mind with your most valuable assets, your customers and employees.  For a great selection of corporate holiday ideas, visit Best Promotions holiday section.  http://www.bestpromotions.com/products/browsecategory/306/

Business owners have personal lives, too: Holidays are a time to focus on friends, family and all your loved ones. Don't miss out on the festivities because you have to take time out to order corporate gifts. The Best Value 60 Golf Umbrella is a can't-miss that never goes out of style, so you can order early with confidence that it will still be a hit come December.

So what are you waiting for? Place your corporate gift orders today to save time and money!

With top-quality promotional products, you can show your employees that you're part of the holiday celebration, too.

Sets are nice because they're two (or more!) gifts in one. The Roadster Gift Set, for example, comes with a matching pen, mini-flashlight, and tire gauge. All three fit in a convenient compact case perfectly sized for storing in your glove compartment.

The Bosque Mug and Pen Gift Set is another great choice. Both the mug and pen are made from a combination of glossy wood finish and stainless steel. The set is incredibly handsome and is useful year-round.

For gifts that will last for years and help your employees enjoy some exercise and sunshine, how about the Full-Zip Fleece Vest or High Sierra Switch Blade Duffel. The best part is that both gifts can be enjoyed during the fall and winter holiday season. The fleece vest will keep them toasty warm, and the duffel bag is perfect for all their holiday traveling.