One Person’s Trash, Another’s Treasure: Celebrating Our Thrifted White Elephant Tradition

Some traditions are meaningful because they’ve been around forever. Others become favorites almost instantly. Our Thrifted White Elephant has quickly become one of those can’t-miss moments at Dominion Payroll, and this year’s second annual celebration proved exactly why.

The concept is familiar, but with a creative twist. Just like a traditional White Elephant gift exchange, participants pick, steal, and unwrap gifts. The only rule? Every gift must be purchased from a thrift store. It’s our way of turning sustainability into fun, proving that one person’s old “discarded” item can truly become someone else’s newest treasure.

You Never Know What You’re Going to Get (And That’s the Best Part)

Part of what makes this event such a hit is the element of surprise. No one knows what’s coming next. Will the gift be practical? Totally random? Slightly strange in the best possible way? Each reveal brought bursts of laughter, playful reactions, and genuine joy.

The energy in the room was contagious. Team members who chose not to participate still gathered around, watching the exchange unfold, cheering, laughing, and enjoying the moment. It was a reminder that employee engagement doesn’t always require a big production, sometimes, it’s about creating space for people to simply enjoy being together.

A Tradition That Strengthens Company Culture

What makes this tradition especially meaningful is how it brings together team members, no matter how long they've been with Dominion Payroll. 

One longtime employee shared just how special it’s been to watch this tradition grow:

“I've been at Dominion Payroll for years and while we always have a fun culture, some traditions stick and some end up falling through the cracks. Even though this was only our second year, I already know our Thrifted White Elephant will be one to stay. It's just so 'us,' you never know what someone will open and what we'll laugh over." 

And for those newer to DP, our Thrifted White Elephant is more than just a game, it's an easy and fun way to connect with team members they may not have had a chance to connect with yet.

“I’ve been here less than a year, and events like this make it so easy to feel like part of the team. Laughing together over gifts really breaks the ice and reminds you that this is a place where people truly enjoy being together."

It's More than Just Thrifted Gifts

At its core, our Thrifted White Elephant isn’t all about what’s inside the wrapping paper. It’s about shared moments, inside jokes, and the kind of laughter that brings people closer together. Events like our Thrifted White Elephant highlight what we value most: connection, creativity, and people.

As we continue to grow, traditions like this help shape who we are and reinforce the kind of workplace we’re proud of, one where people feel engaged, included, and excited to be part of the team.

We’re already looking forward to year three. After all, you never know what treasure might be waiting at the thrift store...