Christmas Gifts for Employees, Customers And Channel Partners to Spill the Seasonal Splendor

Christmas Eve gifts hold a special place in our hearts, as they symbolize warmth, appreciation, and the joy of giving. Whether it's for valued customers, employees and channel partners who have been the cornerstone of our success or business clients who make every day at work pleasure, finding the perfect gift can make this holiday season truly memorable. 

When chosen thoughtfully, Christmas gifts for clients, Christmas gifts for customers, and Christmas gifts for employees can go a long way in strengthening professional relationships and spreading goodwill. These gifts are more than just tokens—they're a reflection of your brand’s gratitude and festive spirit. 

In this blog, we've gathered a list of thoughtful Christmas Eve gifts that are sure to convey your gratitude and spread the festive cheer. Explore these ideas to make this Christmas extra special for those who matter most to your business. 

12 Christmas Eve gifts for customers 

Here are 12 Christmas gifts for customers: 

Personalized holiday keepsakes 

Nothing says “thoughtful” like a gift made just for them. From desk items to seasonal décor, the gifting catalog offers an array of personalized items that add a heartfelt touch. Whether it’s for their workspace or holiday tree, these keepsakes create lasting impressions. 

1. Personalized Christmas ornaments 
   Create custom ornaments with your customer’s name or their company logo makes a unique Christmas gift for customers. These unique ornaments can be hung on the tree and serve as a reminder of your business relationship. You can choose from various designs, such as glass-blown ornaments or wooden ones.  
2. Personalized Christmas cards 
   Send your clients personalized Christmas cards with heartfelt messages or even customized artwork. You can choose to work with a local artist or calligrapher to create a unique and memorable card that stands out from the typical store-bought ones. 

Festive flavors 

Celebrate the season with curated culinary delights as Christmas gift for customers. Gifting platforms feature gourmet hampers, festive treats, and subscription boxes that add flavor and warmth to the holidays. These Christmas gifts for customers are perfect for sparking joy at the dinner table or during cozy winter evenings. 

3. Holiday recipe book 
   Compile a collection of your favorite holiday recipes or partner with a local chef to create a special holiday recipe book. Include a variety of dishes, both traditional and unique, to help your clients enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner or brunch.  
4. Premium subscription box 
   Gift your clients a subscription to a high-end, curated subscription box service that aligns with their interests. Whether it's gourmet snacks, luxury skincare products, or unique home decor, this gift offers a delightful surprise every month.  

Wellness & ambiance 

Seasonal gifting is about comfort, too. With curated wellness and home ambiance products, it’s easy to send Christmas gifts for customers that promote relaxation and mindfulness. It is a perfect Christmas gift for clients juggling busy schedules, these gifts are a gentle reminder to pause and indulge. 

5. Christmas candle set 
   Gift your clients a set of high-quality scented Christmas candles. Choose fragrances that evoke the holiday season, such as pine, cinnamon, or gingerbread. You can even include a personalized label on the candles to make Christmas gift for customers extra special. 
6. Personalized desk accessories 
   Offer your clients stylish and functional desk accessories customized with their name or initials. This could include a leather-bound notebook, a high-quality pen set, a desk organizer, or a unique desk lamp. These items will add a touch of sophistication to their workspace.  

Meaningful gestures 

The holidays are also a time to give back. Several gifting platforms support causes and conscious gifting, allowing you to deliver impact-driven gestures that align with both business values and personal beliefs. 

7. Charitable donation in their name 
   In the spirit of giving, make a charitable donation in your client's name to a cause that resonates with them. This thoughtful gesture not only supports a good cause but also shows your commitment to making a positive impact during the holidays.  
8. Custom illustration or artwork 
   Commission a local artist to create a custom illustration or piece of artwork that captures the holiday spirit. It could be a winter landscape, a festive scene, or even a portrait. This unique and personalized Christmas gift for customers will be a cherished keepsake. 

Interactive holiday experiences 

Some gifts are best experienced. Choose from a range of live events and virtual sessions, designed to engage and entertain. Whether your client loves travel, food, or music—there’s something festive for everyone. 

9. Virtual holiday experience 
   Offer your clients the opportunity to participate in a virtual holiday experience. This could include a live online cooking class, a virtual Christmas carol performance, or a guided virtual tour of famous holiday destinations. It's a creative way to celebrate the holiday together, even when miles apart. 
10. Virtual wine tasting experience 

Arrange for a virtual wine tasting session for your clients. Send them a selection of fine wines along with tasting notes and instructions and then schedule a virtual meeting with a professional sommelier who can guide them through the tasting process. 

Interactive Gifts 

Encourage joy at home with interactive, family-friendly Christmas gifts for customers. These options, often available in lifestyle and experience sections of gifting platforms, bring people together during the holidays—fostering connection through play. 

11. Holiday puzzles or board games 
    Provide clients with a festive-themed puzzle or board game that they can enjoy with their family during the holiday season. This interactive gift encourages relaxation and quality time spent together. 
12. Gift cards for personalized choice 

When you're uncertain about someone's preferences or want to offer them a wide array of choices, gift cards are the ideal solution. These versatile cards can be used at various establishments, including online stores, upscale dining venues, rejuvenating spas, and delightful bookshops.  

By presenting a Xoxoday Plum gift card, you're essentially expressing, "Choose something that truly resonates with you!" It's a thoughtful gesture that demonstrates your care, and they're sure to appreciate and enjoy it. 

Christmas gift baskets for customers 

Here are 6 Christmas gift baskets for customers to express gratitude: 

1. Personalized delight 

Tailor a gift basket with items that reflect your appreciation for your customers' loyalty. Include a personalized thank-you note, a branded mug, and some gourmet treats like artisanal chocolates or cookies. 

2. Holiday cheers 

Create a festive basket with a bottle of premium wine or champagne, accompanied by elegant wine glasses. Enhance the Christmas gift for customers with a selection of gourmet cheeses, crackers, and nuts. 

3. Fashion brands e-gift card 

Present the perfect fashion statement by gifting your loved ones e-gift cards from renowned fashion brands. E-gift cards allow recipients to indulge in their favorite fashion choices and style themselves with the latest trends. 

Consider brands that offer a wide range of clothing, accessories, and footwear options. 

Explore Xoxoday Plum’s selection of gift cards for fashion brands Aldo, Flipkart, Tommy Hilfigher, Amazon, Aurelia and many more. 

4. Relaxation retreat 

Help your customers unwind during the holiday season with a relaxation-themed basket. Include scented candles, bath salts, a cozy blanket, and a selection of soothing teas for a perfect night of relaxation. 

5. Tech treats 

For tech-savvy customers, consider a basket with high-quality headphones, a portable phone charger, and a stylish phone stand. Add a touch of holiday spirit with some tech-themed accessories or gadgets. 

6. Green thumb basket 

Appeal to nature lovers by gifting a basket with a potted plant, gardening tools, and a beautifully illustrated plant care guide. This thoughtful Christmas gift for customers brings a touch of greenery to your customers' homes. 

7. Fitness fanatics 

Encourage a healthy lifestyle with a fitness-themed gift basket. Include a water bottle, workout gear, and nutritious snacks. Consider adding a fitness tracker or a subscription to a wellness app for an extra-special touch. 

10 Christmas gifts for business clients 

Here are some Christmas gifts for business clients: 

Festive drinkware & beverages 

Holiday-themed drinkware paired with premium beverage options is a classic and cozy gift combo. Whether it's for their morning coffee ritual or evening tea wind-down, these Christmas gifts for clients blend festive cheer with daily comfort—perfect for adding seasonal warmth to your customer relationships. 

1. Christmas-themed mugs 
   Offer your business clients a delightful reason to savor their morning beverages during the holiday season with Christmas-themed mugs. These mugs often showcase charming designs like festive reindeer, cheerful ornaments, or messages of holiday cheer. 

This thoughtful gesture can bring a touch of seasonal joy to their daily routine, evoking the spirit of Christmas. 

2. Coffee gift cards 
   Additionally, you can enhance the festive atmosphere by presenting them with exceptional coffee gift cards from well-known brands like Starbucks, Dunkin', Nescafé, McCafé, and a variety of others. 

Winter comfort essentials 

Warm, wearable gifts make thoughtful gestures that combine style with practicality. This thoughtful Christmas gift for clients is perfect for a cozy winter surprise. 

3. Winter scarves 
   Embrace the festive spirit with warm winter scarves. As the holiday season approaches, a snug scarf in traditional Christmas colors like deep reds, forest greens, or classic whites can be a thoughtful and stylish gift.  

Your loved ones can use them to stay cozy during winter outings or to add a touch of elegance to their holiday ensembles. 

Relaxation & wellness 

The holidays can be overwhelming, making stress-relief and relaxation Christmas gifts for clients more valuable than ever. Choose wellness-themed options for Christmas gift for clients that show care for their downtime. 

4. Aromatherapy diffuser with essential oils 
   Gift an aromatherapy diffuser along with a set of essential oils in soothing scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus. It's a thoughtful present that promotes relaxation and well-being.  
5. Handcrafted soap or bath bomb set 
   Present your business clients with a set of meticulously crafted, all-natural soaps or bath bombs. These handcrafted items will bring a touch of luxury to their home spa sessions, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.  

Mindfulness & motivation 

Support your clients' personal growth and mindfulness with gifts that inspire reflection and intention. Ideal for end-of-year reflection and new year planning. 

6. Inspirational books or journals 
   Choose a motivational book or a beautifully designed journal with positive affirmations. This Christmas gift for clients encourages reflection, goal-setting, and personal growth.  
7. Customized phone stand or holder 
   Select a stylish and functional phone stand or holder that can be personalized with their name or a motivational quote. This practical gift can help them stay organized and hands-free. 

Tech & daily use accessories 

From stylish gadgets to functional desk companions, tech-forward Christmas gifts for clients are a smart way to stay top-of-mind—especially when chosen with care and customization. 

8. Bluetooth earbuds or headphones 
   Offer top-notch wireless earbuds or headphones to colleagues who appreciate immersive audio experiences while working or on their daily commute, whether it's for music, podcasts, or audiobooks. 

DIY & creative kits 

Creative kits provide a hands-on break from screen time and create space for joy and expression. These thoughtful Christmas gifts for clients are particularly appreciated for their unique, interactive nature. 

9. Candle making kit 
   Supply your colleagues with everything they need to craft their own personalized candles in the comfort of their homes. Equip them with an array of scents and decorative elements to unleash their creativity and create unique, custom-scented candles. 

Shared holiday experiences 

Not all gifts have to be physical. Experience-based gifting builds memorable connections and offers something different than the usual corporate gift. 

10. Virtual holiday escape room experience 
    Send your clients an invitation to a virtual holiday-themed escape room experience. This interactive and engaging activity will provide them with a fun and memorable way to celebrate the holiday season. 

Gourmet samplers 

Few gifts are as universally appreciated as good food and drink. Curated samplers reflect quality, care, and an elevated gifting approach. 

11. Coffee and tea samplers 
    During the chillier seasons, there's nothing like a steaming cup of coffee or tea to provide warmth and comfort. Treat your team to a variety of handpicked Canadian coffee or tea blends. Add a touch of elegance with a chic mug, and your employees will surely cherish the thoughtful gesture as they embrace the coziness of fall and winter. 

6 Christmas gifts for employees to appreciate their hard work 

Here are 6 Christmas gift ideas for hardworking employees: 

1. Gift cards 

If you're uncertain about personal preferences or want to offer more choice, gift cards serve as an excellent option as Christmas gift for employees. These could be for online retailers, gourmet restaurants, wellness spas, or bookstores. A gift card gives the recipient the freedom to choose a gift they truly want, ensuring your gift is appreciated. 

2. Wellness wonderland 

Prioritize your employees' well-being with a wellness-themed basket. Include items such as essential oils, a fitness tracker, a yoga mat, and healthy snacks to promote a healthy work-life balance. 

3. Coffee connoisseur 

Ignite your team's productivity by gifting them a meticulously crafted coffee-themed basket that goes beyond the ordinary. Elevate their coffee experience with premium-grade coffee beans, carefully selected to tantalize their taste buds and invigorate their senses.  

Enrich their daily routine with a touch of sophistication as you include a stylish travel mug, ensuring they carry their favorite brew with flair wherever the workday takes them. 

4. Home office upgrade 

Acknowledge the remote work trend by gifting items that enhance the home office experience. Consider noise-canceling headphones, a desk organizer, a cozy blanket, and a stylish desk lamp. 

5. Personal development pack 

Show your commitment to your employees' growth by gifting books on personal development, a journal, and perhaps a voucher for an online course. This thoughtful Christmas gift for employees demonstrates your investment in their professional and personal growth. 

6. Customized apparel 

Boost team spirit with customized apparel, such as branded hoodies, T-shirts, or embroidered jackets. Consider adding personalized accessories like a branded mug or water bottle to complete the set. 

7. Charity donation gift card 

Choose the path of compassion and goodwill this Christmas by gifting a donation to a charitable cause in the name of your loved ones. A charity donation gift card is a meaningful and selfless gesture that embodies the spirit of giving and making a positive impact. 

Christmas gift card ideas for employees and clients 

Most businesses are comfortable sending small holiday gifts to clients to maintain a healthy professional relationship. There are even some who encourage it! You can use a Christmas gift card to show your client how much you appreciate their business and look forward to working with them again. 

Giving gifts is a holiday-friendly way to remind people why they should choose your business. It is alright to send a small gift of appreciation to customers as long as you are not bombarding them with advertisements during their holidays. 

Celebrate Christmas with your employees and clients by giving them gift cards: 

1. Myntra gift card 

Gift  Myntra Gift Card to your employees and clients this Christmas! Let them have a fun shopping experience with India's leading e-commerce stores for fashion and lifestyle, Myntra. 

2. MakeMyTrip gift cards 

Gift your clients and employees the joy of vacation this Christmas with  MakeMyTrip Gift Cards. It is one of India’s leading online travel companies. With MakeMyTrip, you can have instant booking options for a wide range of best-valued products and services they offer. Also, you can have dedicated customer support from MakeMyTrip. 

3. BBQ Nation gift card 

Dining out is one of the best options to celebrate the festive seasons. Gift a BBQ nation Gift card to employees and clients. With BBQ nation, your employees and clients can grill barbecues at their tables. Let them have a tasty and fun Christmas with their loved ones. 

4. Westside gift card 

Westside is one of India's most preferred clothing retailers. Probably because any family member can walk into any of its stores and never leave dissatisfied, because it has something for everyone, its popularity continues to soar.

Westside is the place to go if you want value and variety. Westside has something to meet everyone's preferences, needs, and desires. Kids' wear, menswear, and womenswear are all part of this all-in-one brand. 

When it comes to gift-giving situations, you can go right with a Westside e-Gift card, especially if you are planning a gift for your employees or clients. E -Gift cards from Westside are a great way to spread instant happiness! 

5. Louis Philippe gift card 

The Louis Philippe brand is a leading brand of men's apparel in India. You can redeem this gift voucher at selected outlets and cities. 

Clothing and accessories from the brand are tailored to your personality. There is a Louis Philippe outfit for every occasion, casual or formal. Gift cards and gift vouchers from Louis Philippe allow your employees and clients to shop without carrying cash. 

6. Lifestyle gift card 

Lifestyle is a retail chain with stores in several cities across India, offering various branded and designer clothing and footwear. At Lifestyle, you will find more than furniture and furnishings - you'll also find health and beauty products and children's wear and toys.

Fashion, accessories, and jewelry are all available at Lifestyle because of its brand-conscious image. The company is a member of the Landmark Group, which has operations nationwide. Luxury extra toppings are the hallmark of Lifestyle shopping destinations. 

Let your clients and employees decide what they want to have for this Christmas with Lifestyle gift card. 

7. Pantaloons gift card 

Celebrate Christmas with your employees and clients by gifting a Pantaloons gift card. Gift cards from Pantaloons make an ideal gift for both the giver and the receiver. Your employees will love treating themselves to their favorite things when you give them as gifts!  

Pantaloons offer a variety of gift cards that are ideal for any occasion.  Pantaloon Gift Card has accomplished your Christmas surprise and delight mission. 

8. Raymond gift card 

Known for corporate power dressing, Raymond also produces casual wear. In terms of workwear, Raymond is like the Mona Lisa of art. The varied collections are equally impressive, and it is hard to find someone who hasn't worn or thought about wearing a Raymond at least once in their lifetime.  

Ensure that your workplace looks upbeat with workwear from Raymond. A wide variety of clothing is available, including jackets, shirts, trousers, and more. With  Raymond Gift Vouchers and Gift Cards, your employees and clients can get high-quality corporate clothing at substantial discounts this Christmas. 

9. Kate Spade gift card 

With a Kate Spade gift card, your employee and client can select from a trendy wide range of fashion and lifestyle products. They have lovely fashion handbags, wallets, shoes, clothing, accessories, jewelry, etc.  

Gift a Kate Spade Gift Card this Christmas and let your customers celebrate with the latest trendy products. 

10. Hamley’s gift card 

Your employees and clients may have a family, so gifting something to their family members, especially their kids, will be one of the best options this Christmas. And they also will love this gift. Hamley is one of the largest and top-quality toy shops worldwide. Their toys will be designed uniquely, and they always ensure kids’ safety.  

Gift a Hamley’s Gift Card to your employees or clients this Christmas and let their kids enjoy a joyful Christmas with excellent new toys. 

11. Luxe egift card 

Gift your employees a Luxe eGift card . With over 380 stores across India, Several Indulgences offer a world of fashion and lifestyle shopping experiences. 

There are several brands featured in the curated selection, including Armani Exchange, Bally, Bottega Veneta, Brooks Brother, Canali, Coach, Diesel, Dune London, Emporio Armani, G-Star Raw, GAS, Giorgio Armani, Hamleys, Hugo Boss, Hunkemöller, Jimmy Choo, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Mothercare, PaulandShark, Paul Smith, Replay, Salvatore Ferragamo, Satya Paul, Steve Madden, Superdry. Let your clients have a luxury Christmas with this gift card. 

12. MyGlamm gift card 

At MyGlamm, you can shop online for international beauty products and cosmetic makeup items. With the help of global makeup experts and artists, MyGlamm developed exciting innovations in makeup geared toward the simple goal of making looking glamorous and effortless. Shop a Myglamm Gift Card and gift your employees and clients the goodness of beauty products. 

13. Apollo Pharmacy 

The Apollo Pharmacy gift card gives you access to health and wellness cards. Whether a luxury medicine, muscle-building protein, baby care, daily nutrients, or personal care product, Apollo Pharmacy has something for everyone, regardless of age. 

14. Cult. Fit gift card 

Cult. Fit LIVE allows you to work out at home by subscribing to unlimited access plans. Fitness, dance, meditation, health podcasts, videos, and podcast content are all included. Give your customers and employees the thrill of a workout with a Cult.Fit Sports gift voucher. 

15. Health & glow gift card 

Known as an offline beauty and wellness retailer, Health & Glow offers a wide selection of skincare, hair care, makeup, bath & body, wellness, and personal care categories, helping consumers meet their specific beauty and wellness needs. Buy a  Health and Glow Gift Card and gift your employees and clients this Christmas. 

Learning and development gift vouchers for employees 

Nine out of ten respondents to a YouGov survey said that knowledge is a gift. With this gift, you can share learning with your employees and clients. People feel happier when they learn new things, according to the poll.

Lack of time or money is a significant deterrent for many. By sharing the free online courses with employees and clients, you can help them learn new things this festive and holiday season. 

17. Udemy gift vouchers 

Udemy, an eLearning portal, is improving many lives through learning. Udemy has more than 204,000 courses online and more than 71,000 instructors. You can access Udemy videos in 75 languages. Let your employees and clients enjoy learning with Udemy this Christmas. Gift them a Udemy Gift card now! 

18. Coursera gift vouchers 

The Coursera platform enables individuals and organizations worldwide to learn online flexibly, affordably, and job-relevantly. Their programs range from hands-on projects to certificate and degree programs that prepare you for the job market. Gift a Coursera Gift Voucher this Christmas! 

19. SkillShare gift voucher 

SkillShare has specific free courses online. In these courses, industry professionals teach students. Notable industry icons will also give a few special lectures. These courses focus on action-based learning rather than lecture-style reading. Gift your employees a specific class from SkillShare and let them sharpen their skills this Christmas. 

6 Christmas gift ideas for channel partners to elevate relationships 

Here are 6 Christmas gift basket ideas for channel partners: 

1. Executive elegance 

Impress your channel partners with a sophisticated gift basket. Include a high-quality leather notebook, a premium pen, a business card holder, and a bottle of fine wine or whiskey as Christmas gift for channel partners. 

2. Tech innovations 

Cater to the tech-savvy nature of your channel partners with a basket featuring the latest gadgets and accessories. Consider items like a wireless charging pad, a smart home device, and a stylish laptop bag. 

3. Exclusive dining experience 

With an exclusive dining experience as a Christmas gift for channel partners, treat them to a memorable experience. This can be paired with a basket that includes a gourmet gift card to a fine restaurant, a set of elegant tableware, and a bottle of premium olive oil or balsamic vinegar. 

4. Global tastes 

Take your channel partners on a culinary journey with a basket featuring international delicacies. A Christmas gift for channel partners like this—filled with exotic chocolates, rare spices, and gourmet snacks from around the world—shows thoughtfulness and global flair.  

5. Luxury travel essentials 

Acknowledge the importance of travel for your channel partners with a basket that includes travel-related items. A curated Christmas gift for channel partners could include a high-quality travel pillow, a stylish luggage tag, and a set of compact travel accessories—perfect for those always on the move.  

6. Artisanal appreciation 

Showcase your appreciation with a basket filled with artisanal goods. Handcrafted items such as artisanal cheeses, locally sourced jams, and a selection of premium wines or craft beers make for an elegant Christmas gift for channel partners. These carefully selected treats turn a simple gesture into a memorable experience.  

For those seeking a truly distinctive Christmas gift for channel partners, combining quality, taste, and personalization in each hamper will leave a lasting impression. 

Benefits of buying a gift card 

Gift cards are the most effective way to give someone the flexibility and freedom to buy anything they want. Listed below are some advantages of purchasing a gift card. 

1. Promotes company 

The gift card carries your company name wherever it goes, and you can consider it an extension of your store. Using gift cards as gifts enables you to reach a broad audience that you would not have been able to get through conventional marketing methods. 

Sometimes gift cards are resold, which extends their reach, and your brand becomes known to all recipients. Many businesses offer gift cards as a pre-launch strategy for building buzz for a brand, product, or service. 

The digital gift cards purchased by your customers are also a great way to showcase your customers' love for your products/services. In addition, this adds value to your brand. 

2. Flexibility to redeem 

Most of the gift cards from the top brands are easy to redeem in-store and online. Once after receiving a gift card, you have to read the terms and conditions given under the redemption option. 

Then, go to the relevant store or online page of the store. Enter the coupon or voucher code given on the gift card. Then select the option “Redeem” to get your products at a discounted rate or cost-free. Don’t forget to redeem your gift voucher before the validity ends. 

3. Increases savings 

You can increase your savings by purchasing gift cards online. If you are planning to gift your employees or clients during any festive season, plan and prepare for a bulk gift voucher purchase. And you can also select the amount of gift card you want to purchase. Thereby you can set your proper budget. 

With Xoxoday Plum, you can place bulk gift orders if you plan to gift your employees and clients this Christmas. Buy bulk gift cards from Xoxoday Plum to save more! 

4. Reduces taxes 

Purchasing a gift card will benefit both you and the recipient from taxes. Since this is one of the best and most significant benefits of gift cards, you can shop for one for your employees and clients this Christmas. 

However, tax deductions are not available for gift vouchers or cards received in connection with wedding events, under a will, as an inheritance, or as donations or charity by local bodies or individuals to some organizations. 

Conclusion 

The holiday season is more than just a time for exchanging presents—it's a celebration of connections, gratitude, and shared success. Whether you're appreciating loyal customers, hardworking employees, or trusted business partners, the right Christmas Eve gift can leave a lasting impression.

From cozy scarves and DIY candle kits to wellness hampers and gourmet delights, each gift becomes a symbol of your heartfelt appreciation. 

It's not just about what's inside the box, but the thought and meaning behind it. A well-chosen gift expresses your care, your attention to detail, and your commitment to nurturing relationships into the new year. Gifts that are personal, high-quality, and memorable can spark joy, build loyalty, and deepen professional bonds. 

This year, make holiday gifting effortless and impactful with Xoxoday Xoxoday Plum. With a wide range of curated options, global delivery, and seamless personalization, Xoxoday Xoxoday Plum helps you spread joy to every stakeholder—customers, employees, and partners alike. 

Let your gifts speak volumes. Choose Xoxoday Xoxoday Plum for holiday gifting that’s thoughtful, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.  

Schedule a free demo and get started!