I don’t know if any of you have heard of this thing called the Cost of Living? It’s a new phenomenon sweeping the world. It’s wild, it’s thrifty and it is, by all accounts, relentless. But I will not let that dampen my Christmas spirit, because I too am wild, thrifty and relentless with spreading Christmas joy both in the office and at home. In fact, I am so relentless I have roped my family into a Kris Kringle situation this year – why have all the fun at work?

Gifts under $30

Book Curses by Eleanor Baker

I think this is fun – who doesn’t like a good old fashioned curse? This might be just the ticket for that passive aggressive note-leaver in your office or share house. At least the notes in 2025 might be a bit more inventive ...

Hanging cat mug

While technically 2024 is the year of the Dragon, for many people every year is the year of the Cat. And depending on their particular feline friend, what that year looks like can really vary. We all know someone who is, and if we are honest all secretly want to be, a Childless Cat Lady. These very cute mugs remind me of those old ‘Hang in there posters’, and isn’t that just what we are all doing? 

If you're worried about bad luck from a black cat, check out the calico version here.

Orbital by Samantha Harvey

For the serious reader, or the want-to-be reader, the short and terrific Booker Prize Winner, Orbital is sure to please.

Don’t just take my word for it, read what my esteemed colleagues have to say here. 

Gifts under $20

 Special price

Christopher Nolan: The Iconic Filmmaker and His Work by Ian Nathan

This will be a surprise, won’t it! How could something so luxe that it even comes with a slip case come in under the gift giving budget. This is sure to be a scene stealer at any KK exchange – the prestige you’ll be held in after slapping this significant memento on the table will be second to none! 

Alperstein salad servers

I am not going to lie, when I saw these in the shop I was pleasantly surprised by their price. They are lovely, practical and I honestly think most people would be happy to get them. Summer is the season of salads after all. I know my family doesn’t read anything I write, so I can happily say this will certainly be part of my KK offering. 

Check out the other designs here.

Lingo Playing Cards

This is for the KK who’d love to be on holiday overseas but are actually going camping down the coast with their extended family – and all that comes with that. They have many card playing nights ahead of them, and if they have always wanted to learn a language, now they can do both. Whether that be Italian, Spanish or the good old Aussie vernacular, these playing cards will help pass the time with family, and provide fuel for holiday daydreams.

UNO Show 'Em No Mercy

... Or maybe you think they will need a way to release their anger in a way that doesn’t involve throwing a Christmas pudding into the ground (for a lack of solid walls around their campsite). In that case, Uno Show 'Em No Mercy might be just the ticket. Aunty Jan won’t know what’s hit her, but at least it won’t be a raisin-filled dessert. 

Peropon mini animal planters

Is this cute? I am assured it is, and look, the world needs more green. We all know that. Imagine this little cutie on your co-worker's desk, your niece's windowsill or your cousin's kitchen bench, just sitting there quietly growing wild strawberries – never go hungry again!