Giving gifts to an employer or manager is a tricky situation. It is often better to get together as a group of employees and purchase one gift rather than everyone purchasing individual gifts. This not only helps minimize office politics but also allows people to give something substantial and prevents the boss from receiving multiple items like coffee mugs.

1. A Gift for their Garden. If you know your employer enjoys their yard, getting them something nice for their garden is a good idea. This can be fancy solar lighting, a fountain (they come in a variety of price ranges, many being affordable for smaller groups), a garden ornament, or even a fruit tree (not possible in some climates of course).
2. A Spa Day. Plan a spa package for your employer, you may or may not wish to make this an experience for two, thus allowing them to bring their spouse. Spa experiences can be facials, manicures, massages, and so forth. Generally its best if your certificate allows them to pick which thing they would like done.
3. A Deluxe Coffee Maker for their Home. This is specifically not for the office because that would mean the staff is giving themselves a gift in a convoluted fashion. Be sure your employer needs one, or doesn't already have a better one.
4. A Big Snowman. If the person is a huge fan of Christmas decorations, getting something for their home that is really unique can be fun. Obviously this is a seasonal gift, one for giving at Christmas parties, so they can enjoy it for the season, year after year.
5. A Digital Picture Display Unit. This is something for the employer who has a desk job and is proud of their family, or pets. Get them a unique way to show off their most important reasons for life.
6. A Basket of Goodies. You can buy these already made but they tend to be impersonal. Add their favorite snacks but also provide some new things for them to try. Okay, you can even add a coffee mug into the mix. A book, or CD is also a good addition so they have something that will last after they have consumed their treats.
7. A Coffee Table Book. For smaller places of business with fewer employees this may be a perfect gift. You know your employer better, are they a dog person, a cat person, maybe they love African animals... There are some beautiful art books with stunning photographs that your employer would love.
8. Theater Tickets. If your employer is a fan of the arts plan on purchasing them some tickets to a show or play. You may have to contact their spouse to be sure you have tickets for a good date that won't conflict with anything else.
9. Sports Tickets. Maybe they are not into the theater, but love sports; such as a pair of tickets to their favorite sporting event is a great idea. Again contacting their spouse to make sure you have a good date is a smart idea.
10. A Toy. Deep inside all of us is a child. If you know your boss is into gadgets get them a toy robot or something cool. Hobby and gadget stores often sell very unique items that most people think are cool, but would never buy for themselves. If your employer has always wanted a model airplane (the kind you can fly) go out and get it for them.